Regional Director, Asia-Pacific

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) was established to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's development efforts. It operates under the auspices of the United Nations Secretariat and is responsible for overseeing the Resident Coordinator system. The office aims to ensure that the UN's development activities are coherent, coordinated, and aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The DCO has undergone transformations to adapt to the evolving global landscape, focusing on data-driven approaches, innovation, and strategic foresight. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, working collaboratively with various UN agencies and partners to achieve sustainable development goals.

Job Overview:
The Regional Director for Asia-Pacific plays a pivotal role in leading the Development Coordination Office's efforts in the region. This position requires a strategic thinker who can foster collaboration across the UN Development System and engage with various stakeholders to drive sustainable development initiatives. The Regional Director will be responsible for providing high-level support to Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams, ensuring that they receive timely and effective assistance in implementing the 2030 Agenda. The role involves convening regional discussions on sustainable development, influencing policy decisions, and promoting innovative solutions to complex challenges. The Regional Director will also oversee the management of the regional office, ensuring that it operates efficiently and effectively in alignment with the UN's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Regional Director's responsibilities include leading regional thought leadership on sustainable development, convening partnerships for SDG impact, and providing strategic direction for regional initiatives. The role involves strengthening collaboration with regional economic commissions and other stakeholders, leading the development of multi-country partnerships, and integrating development approaches that consider conflict and humanitarian needs. The Regional Director will coordinate communications for the Resident Coordinator system, support resource mobilization efforts, and ensure quality assurance for UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. Additionally, the Regional Director will manage the regional office's operations, oversee staff performance, and ensure compliance with UN policies on gender equality and inclusion. The position requires active engagement with host governments, donors, and inter-agency meetings, representing the UN at various forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in development cooperation coordination, with a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in the field. At least ten years of this experience should be in senior leadership roles within international settings that involve interagency collaboration. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in strategy and policy formulation related to development coordination, as well as experience in managing complex organizational units. Knowledge of SDG financing, public-private partnerships, and organizational reform is essential. Candidates should also have experience in managing budgets and navigating complex humanitarian and conflict settings. Familiarity with the UN Resident Coordinator system or similar international organizations is desirable, along with experience in the Asia-Pacific region.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international relations, public administration, law, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and the UN's operational framework.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in development cooperation coordination, with at least ten years in senior leadership roles. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of field experience in development cooperation, demonstrating their ability to lead strategy and policy formulation. Experience in organizational reform, performance management, and managing multicultural teams is crucial. Additionally, candidates should have experience in strategic resource mobilization and partnership-building across various sectors, including government, private sector, and civil society.

Languages:
English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also necessary, while knowledge of Chinese (Mandarin) is considered desirable. Candidates should meet the minimum required level for each language skill according to the UN Language Framework, ensuring effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is expected to be a full-time role. The contract duration and seniority level have not been specified in the job posting. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality, disability inclusion, and youth participation in its workforce. Compensation and benefits details are typically aligned with UN standards and will be discussed during the recruitment process.