Principal Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Innovation and Digital Transformation Service of the Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training in the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) of the United Nations. The DPO is responsible for providing political and executive direction to UN peacekeeping operations globally, maintaining contact with the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, troop and financial contributors, and parties involved in conflicts. The DPO integrates efforts from UN, governmental, and non-governmental entities in peacekeeping operations and provides guidance on military, police, rule of law, mine action, and other relevant issues. The organization aims to enhance peacekeeping through innovation and a data-driven approach, ensuring safety, security, efficiency, and adaptability in operations.

Job Overview:
The Principal Programme Management Officer will play a crucial role in leading and supervising activities related to innovation and the implementation of the digital transformation strategy for UN Peacekeeping. This position requires leveraging data and technology to enhance mandate implementation, safety, and efficiency across various platforms and stakeholders. The incumbent will coordinate the work of teams within the Service, ensuring high-quality outputs that support evidence-based decision-making and community-centered peacekeeping. The role also involves preparing and implementing annual work plans, managing budgets, and overseeing administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Service. The officer will be responsible for recruiting staff, fostering teamwork, and representing the Division at various meetings, thereby contributing to the overall mission of the DPO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Principal Programme Management Officer include leading and supervising activities related to innovation and digital transformation in UN Peacekeeping. This involves coordinating the work of various teams, ensuring high-quality outputs, and supporting evidence-based decision-making. The officer will assist in preparing and implementing annual work plans, manage budgets, and oversee administrative tasks necessary for the Service's functioning. Responsibilities also include recruiting staff, fostering teamwork, organizing meetings and seminars, and representing the Division at international, regional, or national meetings. The officer will ensure that all outputs meet required standards and comply with relevant mandates, while also managing and developing staff under their supervision.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in leading change management or innovative programmes, programme management, or administration in an international context. Experience in managing complex projects is essential, along with experience in change management or innovative programmes. While experience in peacekeeping is desirable, familiarity with digital transformation in a UN entity or public organization is also beneficial. The role requires a strong understanding of the substantive field of work and the ability to apply UN rules and regulations effectively.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, international relations, development studies, economics, public administration, programme management, or related fields is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree, providing flexibility in educational qualifications for potential candidates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, particularly in leading change management or innovative programmes. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing complex projects and experience in peacekeeping operations is considered an asset. The role demands a high level of expertise in programme management and administration within an international context.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a desirable language, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II. This bilingual requirement reflects the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat and emphasizes the importance of effective communication in both languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that if the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination may have priority. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process.