UN Resident Coordinator

UN Resident Coordinator

United Nations Secretariat

August 10, 2026September 24, 2026PortlouisMauritius
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. The UN operates in various sectors including humanitarian assistance, development, and human rights, with a focus on sustainable development and the eradication of poverty. The UN Development Coordination Office supports the Resident Coordinator system, which is responsible for coordinating the UN's operational activities for development at the country level. The UN aims to leave no one behind in its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Job Overview:
The UN Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system at the country level. The RC is responsible for leading the UN country team, ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, and coordinating UN support to countries in their efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda. The RC engages with government, civil society, and various partners to address national needs and sustainable development challenges. This role requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and a commitment to promoting peace and sustainable development, ensuring that the UN's efforts are aligned with national priorities and that no one is left behind in the pursuit of the SDGs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator is tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including representing the UN at high levels of government, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, and coordinating system-wide support to the government. The RC must foster strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, promote human rights and gender equality, and ensure effective communication of the UN's efforts. Additionally, the RC is responsible for overseeing country financing instruments, leading humanitarian response efforts when necessary, and managing security for UN personnel. The RC also plays a crucial role in promoting staff learning and implementing policies related to sexual exploitation and abuse prevention.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, or social sciences. A first-level university degree with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, including at least five years in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is desirable, along with strong political acumen and the ability to provide insightful analysis to senior officials.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing development, international relations, or related disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with at least five years of cumulative experience in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level outside of one's own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is highly desirable, as is experience in managing humanitarian programs and coordinating disaster response efforts. Candidates should demonstrate strong political acumen and the ability to engage with senior government officials and diplomats.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required, with a minimum level of proficiency specified in the UN Language Framework. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to read, write, listen, and speak in both languages at the required levels.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for November 2027, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The position is classified as an A duty station, with a typical assignment duration of five years. Eligibility is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.
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