Executive Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is a vital component of the United Nations system, established by the General Assembly in 1970 and administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The mission of UNV is to mobilize qualified, motivated, and diverse volunteers to support UN mandates in various areas including development, peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, human rights, and humanitarian action. UNV promotes volunteerism as a key means of implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The organization has evolved into a substantial global operation, with over 17,000 UN Volunteers deployed in 172 countries as of 2025, supported by nearly 500 personnel at its headquarters in Bonn, along with six regional offices and over sixty country presences. UNV's distinctive value lies in its ability to connect the UN system with local communities through volunteers, providing flexible talent and capacity solutions while generating evidence and policy support for volunteerism.

Job Overview:
The Executive Coordinator of UNV plays a crucial role in leading the organization within the framework established by the UN General Assembly and the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board. This position combines the responsibilities of an executive leader, strategic manager, and principal advocate for UNV. The Executive Coordinator is tasked with providing overall vision and strategic direction to fulfill UNV's mandate, translating policy directives into organizational priorities and strategies. This role involves mobilizing and managing human, financial, and institutional resources, representing UNV to Member States and external stakeholders, and ensuring the program operates with integrity, efficiency, and accountability. The Executive Coordinator is also responsible for modernizing UNV's service offerings and promoting the strategic relevance of volunteerism within the UN system and beyond, ensuring responsiveness to Member States and maintaining a strong focus on volunteer quality and inclusion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Executive Coordinator has a wide range of responsibilities, including: 1) Providing strategic leadership and management to UNV, translating General Assembly resolutions and Executive Board decisions into actionable strategies and practices. 2) Leading the design and implementation of UNV Strategic Frameworks, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and measurable results. 3) Serving as the principal spokesperson for UNV, representing the organization in high-level discussions with Member States, UN entities, and other stakeholders. 4) Advocating for volunteerism as a means of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and integrating it into national plans and policies. 5) Ensuring effective management of UNV's financial, human, and digital resources, safeguarding the organization's financial sustainability. 6) Overseeing risk management and internal controls, ensuring that risks are identified and addressed promptly. 7) Championing the principle that UNV's greatest asset is its people, ensuring high-quality, safe, and inclusive volunteer assignments. 8) Promoting innovation and digital transformation within UNV to improve service quality and efficiency. 9) Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration across the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Social or Political Sciences, Economics, Public or Business Administration, Management, or a related field. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a master’s degree. Additionally, candidates should have more than 15 years of relevant experience that combines policy, partnerships, and program leadership engagement, along with strategic resource management. Experience in senior management roles within international organizations or public service is essential, demonstrating high-level engagement in diplomacy and intergovernmental processes. Candidates should also have a proven track record in institutional modernization and change management, as well as strong communication and advocacy skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Social or Political Sciences, Economics, Public or Business Administration, or Management. A bachelor’s degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant experience, highlighting the importance of both formal education and practical experience in this role.

Experience:
The position requires over 15 years of relevant experience, particularly in policy, partnerships, and program leadership. Candidates should have progressively senior management experience, demonstrating high-level engagement in diplomacy and international political or development matters. Experience in managing substantial regional or global operations, as well as a solid understanding of the UN system and intergovernmental processes, is highly desirable. Proven experience in driving institutional modernization and change is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in another official UN language is considered an asset, reflecting the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion in its workforce.

Additional Notes:
This position is a senior leadership role within UNV, which operates under the auspices of UNDP. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the organization's standards and principles. The role may involve managing multiple candidates and retaining applications for similar positions within UNDP. Furthermore, candidates are encouraged to use AI responsibly during the recruitment process, and UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment.