Director of Political Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Political Affairs Division of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). MONUSCO was established to support the Congolese government in stabilizing the country and facilitating peace processes. The mission operates in a challenging environment, classified as a 'C' hardship duty station, indicating significant difficulties in living conditions. MONUSCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the region, working closely with various stakeholders, including the national government, civil society, and international partners. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender balance and diversity in its workforce, striving for a 50/50 gender ratio among its staff. The mission employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to achieving its objectives in a complex political landscape.

Job Overview:
The Director of Political Affairs is a senior leadership position responsible for providing strategic direction and coordination of the Mission's political outreach, analysis, and reporting activities. The role involves developing a comprehensive political strategy in collaboration with the Mission's senior leadership, advocating for the Mission's objectives, and ensuring effective communication and integration of political information across all divisions. The Director will engage with national government officials, civil society leaders, and international partners to foster relationships that support the Mission's goals. This position requires a deep understanding of the political landscape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the ability to navigate complex political dynamics. The Director will also oversee the preparation of reports and ensure that the Mission's activities align with its mandate, providing timely updates and recommendations to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Political Affairs will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Developing and implementing the overall political strategic vision and policies in coordination with senior leadership.
• Advocating for the Mission's views and ensuring coordinated support for political processes.
• Providing timely updates to the SRSG and senior leadership on key political developments.
• Ensuring the integration of political information into the work of all Mission divisions.
• Leading the Mission's political engagement with national authorities and civil society.
• Reviewing and managing reports from the Political Affairs Division to ensure synergy in mandate implementation.
• Preparing analytical reports, briefing materials, and contextual information for senior leadership.
• Establishing collaborative relationships with various stakeholders to address political challenges.
• Managing the Political Affairs Division's program of work, including budget preparation and performance monitoring. 1
• Supervising and mentoring staff, participating in recruitment, and providing strategic guidance to managers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in political affairs, diplomacy, or conflict resolution, with at least fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in these fields. A minimum of five years of management experience is required, along with extensive experience in political outreach, analysis, and negotiation in an international context. Familiarity with the Great Lakes Region and knowledge of conflict-related issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are highly desirable. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to gender equality and diversity in the workplace.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in Political Science, International Relations, Social Science, Law, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to navigate complex political environments effectively.

Experience:
The position requires at least fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, diplomacy, conflict resolution, or a related field. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing large, multi-functional teams or offices within a United Nations field operation or a comparable international organization, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Experience in the Great Lakes Region and familiarity with the political landscape of the Democratic Republic of the Congo will be advantageous.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both languages at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a 'C' hardship duty station, indicating significant challenges in living conditions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict guidelines, ensuring that candidates with a history of violations of international law or human rights are not considered. The position may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations as part of the United Nations' mobility policy. Candidates should be aware that the application process does not involve any fees, and the United Nations does not request personal banking information during recruitment.