UN Sustainable Development Officer, Regional Liaison Europe and Central Asia

Job Posting Organization:
The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) is a stand-alone coordination office within the United Nations Secretariat. Established to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's resident coordinator system, DCO plays a crucial role in overseeing and managing this system under the guidance of the Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG). The office is dedicated to ensuring that the UN's efforts align with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on data-driven approaches, innovation, and a mission-oriented organizational culture. DCO operates globally, with a specific emphasis on the Europe and Central Asia region, and is committed to fostering sustainable development through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Job Overview:
The UN Sustainable Development Officer will be responsible for providing substantive analysis and support to senior leadership within the UN framework. This role involves preparing briefing notes, key messages, and mission packs for senior officials, particularly in complex development and crisis situations. The officer will analyze sustainable development trends and emerging risks, utilizing data visualization techniques to inform decision-making processes. Additionally, the position requires coordination between the UN Headquarters and the Regional Office, ensuring effective communication and collaboration on sustainable development initiatives. The officer will also support intergovernmental processes and engage with senior management to facilitate strategic planning and implementation of sustainable development goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct substantive analysis and prepare briefing materials for senior leadership, including reports and meeting summaries.
• Analyze regional and country-level sustainable development trends, identifying key patterns and insights.
• Support intergovernmental processes by monitoring developments and providing technical assistance for senior leadership engagements.
• Facilitate communication between Headquarters and the Regional Office, ensuring timely information flow and collaboration.
• Assist in the implementation and monitoring of the Regional Office's work plan.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing and best practices among Regional Offices and Resident Coordinators.
• Participate in training activities and support capacity-building efforts within the UN system.
• Perform additional duties as required to support the mission of the DCO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. Proficiency in data collection and analysis is essential, along with the capability to interpret data for decision-making purposes. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication skills, with a commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in all areas of work. Candidates should also exhibit resilience and adaptability in challenging situations, maintaining a focus on organizational goals.

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. Additionally, completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, public policy, or related fields is required. Candidates should have experience in inter-agency collaboration and development cooperation, with a proven track record of initiating and developing partnerships. Familiarity with sustainable development issues specific to the Europe and Central Asia region is desirable, as is experience in integrating gender equality and inclusion dimensions into development initiatives. Field experience in development cooperation and data analytics is also preferred.

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 preferred proficiency level of UN Level II.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on geographic diversity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.