Individual Specialist - Culture Specialist (Built Heritage, World Heritage)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to fostering cultural diversity and promoting the protection of cultural heritage across the globe, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region through its various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Individual Specialist will play a crucial role within the Culture Unit of the UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, focusing on enhancing the capacity of UNESCO Member States to safeguard their cultural heritage and promote sustainable development. This position is primarily concerned with built heritage and world heritage, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation in the context of climate action and emergency preparedness. The Specialist will provide technical support and strengthen national and local capacities among Member States, ensuring that cultural heritage is integrated into broader development strategies. The role involves planning, implementing, and coordinating various activities related to the conservation of immovable cultural heritage, as well as contributing to the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. The Specialist will also engage in capacity-building programs and educational activities related to cultural heritage management, working closely with experts and stakeholders in the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Individual Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing technical advice and support for safeguarding World Heritage through various programs and projects, ensuring alignment with approved budgets and work plans.
• Assisting in the planning and implementation of capacity-building activities aimed at enhancing the management and monitoring of World Heritage sites.
• Facilitating knowledge-sharing activities and preparing advocacy materials to promote cultural heritage initiatives.
• Contributing to the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation by coordinating the annual awards cycle and developing promotional materials.
• Developing and overseeing educational programs related to the 'Competence Framework for Cultural Heritage Management' and organizing relevant courses and seminars.
• Engaging in partnerships and sponsorships to secure funding for cultural heritage initiatives.
• Undertaking mission travel as required and preparing comprehensive reports on travel activities.
• Collaborating with various stakeholders, including local governments, civil society organizations, and heritage practitioners, to promote best practices in cultural heritage conservation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in fields such as arts and culture, heritage studies, cultural industries, development studies, or architecture. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible work experience in culture and creativity is required, with at least five years acquired at the regional or international level. Proven experience in implementing and coordinating multi-country projects, along with a track record in fundraising and building partnerships, is essential. Relevant experience with international organizations and multilateral agencies is considered an asset. Candidates should also demonstrate strong conceptual and analytical skills, effective planning and organizing abilities, and the capacity to work independently in a multicultural team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in relevant fields such as arts and culture, heritage studies, cultural industries, development studies, or architecture. A sub-specialization related to conservation is desirable, as it would enhance the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible work experience in the field of culture and creativity, with a strong emphasis on experience acquired at the regional or international level. Candidates should have a proven track record in implementing and coordinating multi-country projects, as well as experience in fundraising and building partnerships. Familiarity with the cultural heritage landscape in the Asia-Pacific region is highly advantageous.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in at least one Asian language is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultant contract at Level 2 - Middle, with a duration of 11 months, starting from February 1, 202

• The role is open to external candidates and requires on-site work in Bangkok, Thailand. The Individual Specialist will be responsible for travel arrangements related to program implementation, with travel costs covered by UNESCO. The contract may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. Candidates must submit a comprehensive application, including a Curriculum Vitae, cover letter, and technical and financial proposals, by the application deadline of November 22, 202
• The selection process may involve assessments and interviews, and all candidates will be informed of the outcome of their applications.