Senior Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Common Administrative Platform at United Nations Headquarters, known as the One Executive Office (One EO), under the Division of Administration in the Department of Operational Support (DOS). The One EO is undergoing a transition phase that began on January 1, 2026, as part of the UN80 reform initiative, which aims to consolidate common administrative functions across various Secretariat entities into unified service platforms. The One EO provides a comprehensive range of administrative and operational services necessary for New York-based Secretariat client entities to fulfill their mandates, including human resources management, financial administration, travel, and general administrative support. This position specifically supports entities with mandates related to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, such as the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The incumbent will report to the Chief of the Client Desk under the overall guidance of the Director of Administration.

Job Overview:
The Senior Administrative Officer will play a crucial role in the development and implementation of the administrative framework within the Client Desk. This position involves advising senior management on various administrative matters, including budgeting, financial management, human resources, and general administration. The officer will be responsible for producing complex reports for management and client entities, providing expert advice on operational objectives, and participating in task forces related to human resources and administrative matters. The role also includes leading human resource administration, ensuring compliance with UN operational procedures, and managing sensitive management reviews. The officer will oversee budgetary expenditures, develop policies for financial management, and implement innovative solutions to enhance efficiency in administrative support services. Overall, the position requires a proactive approach to managing administrative functions and supporting the strategic objectives of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Administrative Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: assisting in the development and implementation of administrative frameworks; advising senior management on budgeting and financial issues; producing complex reports for management; providing support for operational objectives and administrative policies; participating in task forces on human resources and administrative matters; coordinating human resource administration for client entities; overseeing staffing table records and compliance with staff rules; preparing responses for legal cases; ensuring compliance with recruitment and career development procedures; producing human resources reports; supporting budgetary control and resource allocation; developing financial management policies; planning and organizing support services; managing administrative staff; overseeing audits and compliance; and performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, human resources, finance, accounting, law, or a related area. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage. Candidates should have a strong understanding of UN rules and regulations, as well as experience in administrative and financial management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as business or public administration, human resources, finance, accounting, law, or related areas. A first-level university degree may be accepted if combined with additional qualifying experience. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in administration, budget, finance, human resources management, or a related field is required. Candidates must have experience applying human resources rules and policies within the United Nations or a comparable international organization. Experience in preparing analytical reports using large datasets from ERP systems, leading process simplification, and managing conduct and discipline matters is also required. Desirable experience includes financial management within the UN or similar organizations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in the same areas. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for detailed language requirements.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, subject to availability of the post or funds, and budgetary approval. Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfill lateral move requirements to be eligible to apply. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on geographic diversity. The UN Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. Candidates must provide complete and accurate information in their applications, and those under serious consideration will undergo reference checks.