Special Assistant to the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Under-Secretary-General (OUSG), Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. DESA was established to support the work of the United Nations in the areas of economic and social development. The organization aims to promote sustainable development and to assist countries in achieving their development goals. It operates globally, providing support and advice to member states and other stakeholders. The office is responsible for coordinating the UN's work in economic and social affairs, ensuring that the organization meets its commitments to international cooperation and development. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, focusing on various development issues.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs by preparing policy notes and strategic proposals that shape departmental positions on significant development issues. This position requires a deep understanding of social, economic, and sustainable development, particularly in the context of international cooperation. The incumbent will advise the Under-Secretary-General on relevant program and policy issues, monitor emerging development concerns, and oversee correspondence related to the Under-Secretary-General's office. The role also involves coordinating substantive preparations for discussions in the General Assembly and Economic and Social Council, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with senior officials and representatives from member states and civil society. The Special Assistant will be an integral part of the team, contributing to the overall management and strategic direction of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Special Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Preparing policy notes and strategic proposals to inform departmental positions on major development issues.
• Advising the Under-Secretary-General on program and policy matters, particularly those related to social, economic, and sustainable development.
• Monitoring new and emerging development issues relevant to the UN's intergovernmental processes.
• Overseeing correspondence addressed to and originating from the Under-Secretary-General.
• Ensuring effective preparations and follow-up for meetings involving the Under-Secretary-General and senior representatives of member states and civil society.
• Coordinating with Directors and senior staff within DESA and other UN offices to facilitate collaboration.
• Assisting in the substantive preparations for discussions in the General Assembly and Economic and Social Council, as well as supporting ECOSOC functional commissions and committees.
• Serving as a key liaison for the Under-Secretary-General with various stakeholders, including delegations to intergovernmental bodies.
• Performing additional duties in support of senior management processes as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic, social, and sustainable development, with a comprehensive understanding of the UN system and its programs. They should demonstrate analytical skills in addressing complex development issues and have a proven track record of effective communication and collaboration. Professionalism, teamwork, leadership, and sound judgment are essential competencies for this role. The ideal candidate will show a commitment to gender balance and diversity in staffing, reflecting the UN's values and mission.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in social development, economics, political science, public administration, communications, international relations, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in international relations, socioeconomic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of socioeconomic principles in development programs is required. Candidates should have experience in economic, social, and sustainable development at both the international and national levels, as well as experience supporting senior officials in intergovernmental or diplomatic settings.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available from October 9, 2026, until August 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates or those based at the duty station, and the position is subject to funding availability. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to maintaining a non-smoking environment.