UN Resident Coordinator

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, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries, including Sierra Leone, focusing on sustainable development and humanitarian assistance. The UN Development Coordination Office supports the Resident Coordinator system, which ensures effective coordination of UN activities at the country level, particularly in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The UN Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the United Nations 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 for the country's efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 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 leaving no one behind in the pursuit of sustainable development. The RC also reports to the Secretary-General and the host government on the implementation of the UN Cooperation Framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator's responsibilities include representing the UN at high levels of government, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, coordinating system-wide support to the government, and advocating for the SDGs. The RC is tasked with promoting human rights and gender equality, fostering partnerships with diverse stakeholders, and facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration. The RC also manages country financing instruments, engages in strategic communication, and ensures the security of UN personnel. Additionally, the RC is responsible for developing strategies to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse and for overseeing the implementation of these initiatives. The role requires managing a matrixed dual reporting system and promoting UN common business operations to enhance efficiency and coherence.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, law, or closely related fields. A first-level university degree with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level is required, including five years in development, human rights, rule of law, peace-building, or humanitarian work at the country level outside of one's own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is essential, along with senior-level inter-agency coordination experience. Candidates should demonstrate strong political acumen, experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, and the ability to build trusted relationships across society.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, or law. Candidates with a first-level university degree and relevant experience may also be considered. The emphasis is on advanced academic qualifications that align with the responsibilities of the Resident Coordinator role.

Experience:
Candidates should have over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with a strong focus on development, human rights, and humanitarian work. This includes at least five years of cumulative experience at the country level outside of their own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is required, and senior-level inter-agency coordination experience may be considered as a substitute. The role demands solid experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs and a proven ability to navigate complex political dynamics.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations, but there are no specific desirable languages for this position beyond English.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for December 2027, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The selected candidate must deploy within three months of notification if the incumbent leaves earlier. The position is classified as a C duty station, with a duration of assignment of four years, subject to change based on the hardship classification. 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.