Chief of Administration (Director, Administration and Conference Management)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. Its mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• UNECA operates with a focus on advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the African continent, aiming to address regional challenges and contribute to global governance issues.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Administration will oversee the Administration and Conference Management Division (ACMD) at UNECA, ensuring the effective and efficient management of all administrative support services. The incumbent will provide strategic leadership and advice to senior management, focusing on the planning and management of financial, human, and physical resources. This role requires the development of strategies for human resources management, finance, digital technology, supply chain management, and facilities management. The Chief will also be responsible for accountability, reporting, and financial management, preparing major reports for senior management and UN legislative bodies, and managing audits and evaluations. The position demands a commitment to high-quality service delivery, innovation, and adherence to UN regulations and policies, while promoting organization-wide reform policies and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and advice to senior management in administrative planning and resource management.
• Develop and implement strategies for effective management of human resources, finance, digital technology, supply chain, and facilities management.
• Prepare major reports for senior management and UN legislative bodies, ensuring compliance with UN regulations.
• Manage internal and external audits, ensuring timely responses to recommendations.
• Oversee conference management services, ensuring high-quality planning and delivery of conferences and meetings.
• Promote organization-wide reform policies and initiatives, engaging with inter-agency coordination.
• Lead and supervise the work programme of the Division, fostering teamwork and communication among staff.
• Collect and analyze data to inform decision-making and reporting.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced knowledge in human resources management, financial services, and administrative areas. They should demonstrate the ability to apply UN rules and regulations effectively and handle complex organizational issues. Strong analytical skills and the ability to prepare comprehensive reports are essential. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality in all areas of work. Leadership skills and the ability to manage diverse teams are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in management, business administration, public administration, human resources, finance, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in the above fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics or business analytics is an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in administration, including financial services, budgeting, human resources, and facilities management, is required. Experience managing a diverse workforce and leading organizational change initiatives is essential. Candidates should have experience representing organizations on administrative issues to various stakeholders and leading interagency initiatives within the UN system or comparable international organizations. Hands-on experience with UN administrative regulations and international standards in financial and procurement areas is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in all skills. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, as they are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the UN does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.