Chief of Section, Programme Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) was established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, guided by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on five strategic directions, including advancing its position as a knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies, designing innovative financing models, contributing to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position globally. ECA employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the African continent, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to address the continent's challenges.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Programme Management, is a senior position within the Social-Economic Development Division (SEDD) of ECA. The incumbent will be responsible for providing policy advice and overseeing the implementation of strategies and policies within the Division. This role requires coordination of diverse projects, ensuring timely execution of substantive work programmes, and liaising with other UN organizations, donors, and agencies. The Chief of Section will contribute to the preparation of position papers and reports for intergovernmental bodies, ensuring high-quality outputs that meet required standards. The position also involves supporting the Director with administrative tasks, managing staff development, and representing the organization at various meetings. The Chief of Section is expected to foster teamwork and communication among staff and contribute to the overall mission of promoting inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development in Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section will be responsible for the following duties:

• Provide policy advice on strategy development and management of implementation of overall strategies and policies.
• Oversee the management of activities undertaken by the Division, ensuring timely execution of work programmes.
• Coordinate the work of the Division and provide substantive reviews of drafts prepared by others.
• Prepare position papers and reports for intergovernmental bodies, ensuring clarity and objectivity.
• Contribute to reporting on budget/programme performance and substantive issues.
• Ensure high-quality outputs produced by the Division meet required standards.
• Prepare input for the work programme, determining priorities and allocating resources.
• Support the Director with programmatic and administrative tasks, including budget preparation and performance monitoring.
• Contribute to staff recruitment, ensuring geographical and gender balance. 1
• Manage and develop staff, contributing to training and capacity-building efforts. 1
• Foster teamwork and communication among staff and represent the organization at inter-agency meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or related fields. A first-level university degree combined with two 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 an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of the substantive field of work and the ability to produce and review reports on technical issues. They must also show a strong understanding of UN rules and regulations, as well as a commitment to professional integrity and efficiency.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or related areas is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted 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 related fields is required. Experience in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating socio-economic development programmes or projects is essential. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable. Experience in policy research and initiatives related to social development, employment, gender equality, youth empowerment, or social protection is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is an advantage. Knowledge of another UN official language is also considered beneficial. Candidates must meet the minimum required level for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is available on a temporary basis. If the selected candidate is a staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, this will be a temporary assignment. The selection for this position is for a limited period and does not affect future incumbency of the post. The eligibility for this temporary job opening may be limited to candidates based at the duty station. The position may be limited to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination or selection process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.