UN Programme Management Officer - Regional Policy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) was established to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's development efforts. It operates under the oversight of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG) and is responsible for coordinating the resident coordinator system. The office aims to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensuring that the UN's operations are data-driven, innovative, and aligned with global development goals. The UNDCO has undergone transformations to adapt to the evolving needs of sustainable development, focusing on integrating various disciplines and fostering a mission-driven organizational culture. The office employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable development across multiple countries, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and partnership with various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The UN Programme Management Officer - Regional Policy Specialist will play a crucial role in developing, implementing, and coordinating regional policies related to sustainable development and SDG financing. This position involves analyzing regional trends, identifying bottlenecks in SDG implementation, and proposing policy recommendations to enhance economic transformation. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including UN Country Teams, Member States, and regional organizations, to facilitate strategic policy dialogues and develop actionable responses to sustainable development challenges. The role requires a strong analytical background, as the officer will be responsible for conducting research, generating data-driven insights, and synthesizing findings into high-quality written outputs. The position also involves leading field missions and engaging in partnerships to promote sustainable development initiatives across the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate regional policy and SDG financing programs, addressing bottlenecks and risks in SDG acceleration.
• Coordinate policy development by analyzing regional trends and institutional frameworks, and support the creation of policy recommendations.
• Manage program and resource planning activities, including project preparation, workplans, and progress reporting.
• Provide policy advisory and analytical support through collaboration with various stakeholders, facilitating strategic dialogues and workshops.
• Conduct research and analysis on sustainable development issues, preparing strategic assessments based on regional realities.
• Generate data collection tools and analyze findings to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Engage in regional coordination and stakeholder engagement, supporting consultative processes and outreach activities.
• Produce high-quality written outputs, including policy briefs, thematic analyses, and reports.
• Lead field missions, providing guidance to consultants and preparing mission summaries and recommendations. 1
• Perform other duties as required to support the office's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to analyze and resolve complex issues. Proficiency in data collection and analysis methods is essential, along with the ability to conduct independent research. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality in their work. Strong planning and organizational skills are required, as well as effective communication abilities to convey information clearly and engage with diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, political science, economics, public policy, public administration, finance, social sciences, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of degree or non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in program or project management, sustainable development, public policy, economic analysis, or development cooperation is required. Experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable, along with familiarity with the United Nations system or comparable international organizations. Candidates with experience in sustainable development policy in the Arab States region and partnerships involving civil society actors will be given preference. Experience in assessment and reporting within a development context is also beneficial.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level II proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Arabic is desirable at UN Level I proficiency. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, with a strong emphasis on English as the working language of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on funding availability. The position is open to candidates of all nationalities, but applicants cannot be of the nationality of the country where the position is located. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are urged to apply online as soon as possible.