UN Sustainable Development Officer - Regional Liaison Africa Region

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was established to enhance the coordination of development operations across the UN system. The DCO plays a crucial role in overseeing the resident coordinator system, ensuring that it is effectively configured to support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The office is focused on integrating innovative approaches, data-driven decision-making, and fostering a mission-driven organizational culture. The DCO operates globally, with a particular emphasis on regional offices, including the Regional Office for Africa, which is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the African continent.

Job Overview:
The UN Sustainable Development Officer will be responsible for providing substantive analysis and support to senior leadership within the UN system, particularly in relation to sustainable development initiatives in the Africa region. This role involves preparing briefing notes, key messages, and mission packs for senior leadership, as well as conducting research and analysis on sustainable development trends and emerging risks. The officer will also facilitate coordination between the UN Headquarters and the Regional Office, ensuring effective communication and collaboration on sustainable development efforts. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying regional trends and providing insights that inform decision-making and strategic planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct substantive analysis and prepare briefing materials for senior leadership, including drafting notes, key messages, and meeting summaries.
• Collect and analyze quantitative and qualitative data on sustainable development trends and risks in the Africa region.
• Support intergovernmental processes by monitoring developments and providing technical assistance for senior leadership engagements.
• Facilitate communication between the Regional Office and Headquarters, ensuring timely information flow and alignment on sustainable development priorities.
• Assist in the implementation and monitoring of the Regional Office's work plan, contributing to strategic planning exercises and knowledge sharing among UN country teams.
• Participate in training activities to enhance capacity building within the UN system.
• Perform additional duties as required to support the objectives of the Regional Office and the UN Sustainable Development Group.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and practices, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. Proficiency in data collection and analysis is essential, as is the ability to communicate findings effectively to management. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in their work, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into sustainable development initiatives. Strong teamwork and communication skills are critical, as the role requires collaboration with various stakeholders within the UN system and beyond.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, economics, public policy, public administration, finance, natural resources management, engineering, law, social sciences, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additional qualifications in data analytics or related fields are advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, public policy, or related areas is required. Candidates should have experience working in inter-agency or intergovernmental settings, with a focus on development cooperation and policy analysis. Experience in the Africa region and in integrating gender equality and inclusion dimensions into development initiatives is desirable. Familiarity with the UN system or similar international organizations is also beneficial, along with field experience in development cooperation and data analytics.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a desirable language, with a recommended proficiency level of UN Level II.

Additional Notes:
The position is open for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates must adhere to the highest standards of integrity and efficiency, and those with a history of violations of international law or misconduct will not be considered. The UN Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.