Special Representative in Ethiopia – Liaison for the African Union Commission and UNECA

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Position Title: Special Representative in Ethiopia – Liaison for the African Union Commission and UNECA
Location: Addis Ababa
Country: Ethiopia
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization aims to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men. UN Women operates globally, with a focus on various regions, including Africa, where it collaborates with significant regional bodies such as the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims.

Job Overview:
The Special Representative in Ethiopia will oversee external relations and manage the partnership portfolio with the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa. This role involves coordinating strategic partnerships in areas such as Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security, Women's Rights, Governance, and Women's Leadership in Politics. The representative will also work closely with the African Women Leaders Network and engage with various stakeholders to promote gender equality and women's empowerment at the continental level. The position requires a strong understanding of regional dynamics and the ability to influence policy and decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide substantive policy guidance and support to UN Women leadership based on regional development and political trends.
• Define UN Women’s role within regional coordination mechanisms and facilitate negotiations with the AU and UNECA.
• Lead the establishment of strategic partnerships with stakeholders and development partners.
• Manage external relations with donors and partners, developing resource mobilization strategies.
• Represent UN Women in interagency meetings and contribute to policy development and implementation.
• Oversee the design and implementation of capacity-building activities and knowledge management initiatives.
• Lead the office in achieving operational goals, managing personnel, and ensuring a respectful work environment.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in international development, public administration, public policy, or relevant social science fields.
• A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Project/programme management certification (e.g., PMP®, PRINCE2®, MSP®) is an advantage.
• Substantive knowledge of gender equality and women's empowerment issues is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as international development or public policy. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with extensive experience may be considered. Additional certifications in project management are beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of progressively responsible experience focused on gender equality at various levels, including 5 years of field experience with an international organization. Experience in managing development policy-making and engaging with African regional bodies is crucial. Leadership experience in international settings is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory. Knowledge of Portuguese and another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and involves significant interaction with regional and international stakeholders. The role is full-time and may require travel within the region. UN Women emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks.