Special Assistant Administration

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an organization established by the UN General Assembly with the mission to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, aiming to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty through positive urbanization.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant Administration position is located in the Office of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director at UN-Habitat in Nairobi. The incumbent will report directly to the Chief of Staff and will be responsible for a variety of administrative and strategic support functions. This role involves coordinating communications, reviewing documents, monitoring policy issues, and ensuring effective liaison between the Chief of Staff and other divisions within UN-Habitat. The position requires a proactive approach to managing the Chief of Staff's commitments, facilitating meetings, and maintaining communication with senior officials and delegations. The Special Assistant will also support the Chief of Staff in preparing for missions, drafting correspondence, and analyzing data to inform decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Special Assistant include: 1) Supporting the Chief of Staff by coordinating communications and prioritizing strategic issues. 2) Reviewing documents for compliance with UN-Habitat policies and ensuring they are cleared for the Chief of Staff's signature. 3) Monitoring emerging policy issues and bringing them to the Chief of Staff's attention. 4) Liaising with senior management and ensuring effective communication regarding missions and travel. 5) Assisting in planning and participating in meetings of various UN bodies and ensuring the Chief of Staff has the necessary materials for these meetings. 6) Maintaining records of meetings and ensuring follow-up actions are completed. 7) Facilitating communication with governments and senior officials, drafting confidential correspondence, and analyzing political developments that may impact UN-Habitat's work. 8) Coordinating the preparation of briefing materials for missions and assisting in the finalization of reports and statements. 9) Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and support data-driven decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public administration, international relations, law, or business administration. They should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills. The ability to analyze complex issues and communicate effectively is essential. Candidates should also show a commitment to gender perspectives and inclusivity in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, law, business administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public administration, international relations, law, or development management is required. Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in international and multilateral relations, as well as experience in a busy executive office within the UN or similar international organization. Experience in data analytics is also desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term Limited position with an initial appointment period of one year, subject to extension based on funding availability. The position is limited to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and the UN is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.