Chief, Regional Coordination and Intergovernmental Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) was established following the endorsement of the transformation of the Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) by the United Nations General Assembly in its Resolution A/RES/72/27

• The DCO operates as a stand-alone coordination office within the United Nations Secretariat, overseeing the Resident Coordinator (RC) system under the collective ownership of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG). The office's mission is to ensure that the RC system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, embodying the UN 2.0 shift which emphasizes data, digital innovation, behavioral science, strategic foresight, and a mission-driven organizational culture. The DCO has undergone significant organizational recalibration to enhance its effectiveness and adaptability in the face of evolving global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Regional Coordination and Intergovernmental Affairs is a pivotal role within the United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO), specifically located in the Strategic Partnerships and Engagement Division. This position is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the Intergovernmental and Regional Liaison Section. The incumbent will engage with Member States to develop and implement differentiated engagement strategies that support the RC system and the DCO's development coordination mandate. The role requires a strong interface with various UN bodies and regional teams, ensuring that the DCO's objectives align with the broader goals of the UN. The Chief will oversee the preparation of high-quality analyses and briefings for senior management, contributing to the UN's intergovernmental processes and enhancing the effectiveness of the RC system in achieving sustainable development goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief will lead the development and implementation of engagement strategies with Member States, coordinate intergovernmental engagement efforts, and strengthen DCO's systems for monitoring and analyzing deliberations in UN intergovernmental bodies. Responsibilities include overseeing the preparation of timely analyses and briefings for senior management, leading collaboration with UN Secretariat officials, and contributing to the drafting of reports and presentations for various UN bodies. The Chief will also support the regional architecture of the UN development system, manage a team of Regional Liaison Officers, and undertake additional tasks to ensure the effective functioning of the team and the achievement of organizational objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep understanding of intergovernmental affairs, including relevant platforms and procedures. They should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent research, and effective communication skills. The role requires the ability to manage conflicting priorities and demonstrate professionalism in all aspects of work. Candidates should also exhibit leadership qualities, including the ability to empower others and drive change within the organization. A commitment to gender balance and inclusivity in staffing is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, economics, public policy, political science, public administration, finance, law, social sciences, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in liaising with Member States and managing intergovernmental engagement is required. Candidates should have experience advising senior officials in intergovernmental forums and possess field experience within the RC system or UN development entities. Knowledge of the UN development coordination architecture, particularly at the regional level, is essential, along with proven communication and negotiation skills. Experience at the headquarters of a development cooperation organization is desirable, as is team leadership and performance management experience.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in the same areas.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is open for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on funding availability. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is subject to budgetary and intergovernmental approvals, and all staff are expected to adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.