Chief of Service, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a part of the United Nations Secretariat, established to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA operates under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council and encompasses 21 member countries across Western Asia and North Africa. The organization aims to provide a framework for the formulation and harmonization of sectoral policies, act as a platform for coordination, and serve as a repository of expertise and knowledge. ESCWA is committed to advancing just, peaceful, and inclusive societies, particularly for those living under occupation or in conflict settings, while also focusing on improving governance and strengthening public institutions.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Service for Economic Affairs will lead the Governance and Conflict Prevention Cluster within ESCWA. This role involves overseeing the substantive and operational work of the cluster, which includes formulating and implementing a comprehensive work program focused on governance and conflict analysis. The Director will be responsible for managing resources, guiding methodological development, and ensuring that programmatic activities are executed with high quality and timeliness. The position requires advising senior management on strategic directions, fostering relationships with member states and partners, and overseeing capacity-building initiatives to support evidence-based policy adoption. The Chief will also be tasked with identifying strategies for program improvement and risk management, as well as preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will be responsible for a variety of functions including:

• Formulating and implementing the work program of the Governance and Conflict Prevention Cluster.
• Directing activities and managing resources effectively.
• Overseeing programmatic and administrative tasks, including budget preparation and performance evaluation.
• Ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of program activities and analytical outputs.
• Advising on strategic directions related to governance, conflict mitigation, and institutional recovery.
• Coordinating technical cooperation and capacity-building initiatives.
• Identifying strategies for program improvement and risk mitigation.
• Preparing reports for presentation to intergovernmental bodies.
• Undertaking additional functions as assigned by senior management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in socio-economic development and conflict-related issues, particularly within the context of Arab States. A proven publication record in refereed journals is essential, along with the ability to produce and review technical reports. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. Leadership qualities are crucial, as the role requires empowering others and driving change. A commitment to gender balance and inclusivity in staffing is also expected.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics, development economics, law, political science, public administration, social sciences, or a related field is required. A Ph.D. in one of these disciplines is desirable and may enhance a candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
At least 15 years of progressively responsible work experience at the international and regional level in high-level research and analysis on development issues is required. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of experience in conflict analysis and governance, including directing research and managing development programs. Experience in policy and technical development related to conflict and institutional building is essential, along with strategic and managerial experience in complex development projects in conflict or post-conflict settings.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in Arabic is required. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for all three languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months from the date of appointment, with the possibility of extension based on the availability of the post, budgetary approval, and satisfactory performance. The role is open to both internal and external candidates, with a strong encouragement for female candidates to apply. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs. The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers.