Director, Statistics, Information Society and Technology Cluster

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission of the United Nations, established to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA operates under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council and comprises 21 member countries across Western Asia and North Africa. The organization is dedicated to providing a framework for the formulation and harmonization of sectoral policies, serving as a platform for coordination and expertise sharing, and acting as an information observatory. ESCWA is particularly focused on digital transformation and the utilization of data to enhance its programs and operations, aiming to deliver effective services to member states and partners in addressing economic and social challenges. The organization is committed to strengthening statistical systems and capacities, improving the quality and comparability of official statistics, and leveraging innovative methods and new data sources to enhance statistical production and analysis.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Statistics, Information Society and Technology Cluster at ESCWA will be responsible for leading the substantive and operational work of the cluster. This includes designing and implementing the work program, managing resources, and providing guidance on methodological and developmental work in statistics and technology. The Director will oversee programmatic and administrative tasks necessary for the cluster's functioning, including resource mobilization, budget preparation, and performance evaluation. The role requires ensuring that activities and deliverables are executed timely and with high quality, based on comprehensive data. The Director will advise senior management on strategic directions, oversee technical cooperation and capacity-building initiatives, and identify strategies for program improvement. Additionally, the Director will coordinate the preparation of reports for intergovernmental bodies and manage major systems initiatives to enhance ESCWA's digital transformation strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and implement the substantive work program of the Statistics, Information Society and Technology Cluster.
• Direct activities and manage resources, providing guidance on methodological and developmental work.
• Undertake programmatic and administrative tasks, including resource mobilization and budget preparation.
• Ensure timely and high-quality execution of activities and analytical deliverables.
• Advise senior management on strategic directions and programmatic policy issues.
• Oversee technical cooperation and capacity-building initiatives to support member states.
• Identify strategies for program improvement and propose mitigating measures for risks.
• Coordinate the preparation of reports for intergovernmental bodies and service relevant committees.
• Manage major systems initiatives and oversee complex system integration tasks. 1
• Enhance ESCWA's digital transformation strategy and develop decision support ecosystems. 1
• Undertake additional functions as assigned by senior management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess expert knowledge of digital transformation issues, demonstrated through published papers and relevant work experience. They should have familiarity with issues pertinent to both developing and developed countries. The ideal candidate will show pride in their work, demonstrate professional competence, and be efficient in meeting commitments. They should be motivated by professional concerns, persistent in overcoming challenges, and able to remain calm under stress. Strong communication skills are essential, including the ability to listen, interpret messages, and tailor communication to the audience. Teamwork and leadership capabilities are also critical, with a focus on collaboration, conflict resolution, and driving change.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in statistics, information technology, demography, social sciences, or related disciplines is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible professional experience in statistics and/or technology, research, and innovation at an international level is required. Candidates must have at least five (5) years of experience in policy and technical development in technology, statistical programs, or research. Additionally, five (5) years of strategic and managerial experience in managing complex digital and/or data processes, projects, and portfolios is necessary. Experience in forming partnerships in digital technologies and statistics is desirable, as is experience working with the United Nations Common System or other international organizations.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, as well as proficiency in Arabic. 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 temporarily available for three months from the date of appointment, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of the post, budgetary approval, and satisfactory performance. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.