Head of Policy and Statutory Meetings Unit

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Head of Policy and Statutory Meetings Unit
Location: Paris
Country: France
Deadline Date: 25-NOV-2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which was established in 194

• UNESCO's mission is to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of more than 2,000 employees. UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication.

Job Overview:
The Head of Policy and Statutory Meetings Unit will operate under the authority of the director-general" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Assistant Director-General for Culture and the direct supervision of the Director of World Heritage. This role involves leading and managing the Unit's staff to effectively implement the 1972 World Heritage Convention. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing statutory work and processes in collaboration with various units within the Culture Sector. The position requires supporting, monitoring, and reporting on programs and projects, as well as resource mobilization activities aligned with UNESCO's global priorities, including Africa and Gender Equality. The incumbent will also engage with transversal thematic areas such as Culture and Education, Culture and Climate Change, and Indigenous Peoples, focusing on priority groups like Small Island Developing States and Youth.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will plan and lead the organization of meetings for the Governing Bodies of the World Heritage Convention, ensuring their smooth conduct and follow-up. Responsibilities include overseeing policy, content, and logistical aspects of meetings, liaising with States Parties and host countries, and preparing agendas and documents. The incumbent will provide conceptual guidance on strategic documents related to World Heritage, contribute to policy development, and ensure the consistent application of the Rules of Procedure and Operational Guidelines. The role also involves supervising the Unit's staff, managing the work program and budget, and coordinating the implementation of statutory obligations under the World Heritage Convention. Additionally, the incumbent will provide substantial input in developing the Medium-Term Strategy and Programme and Budget of the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in culture, heritage and archaeology, social sciences, international relations, or related fields. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in culture, heritage conservation, and management is required, with at least three years at the international level. Proven experience in managing intergovernmental processes and advocacy for resource mobilization is essential. Candidates should demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to build trust and motivate teams.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) is required in relevant fields. A PhD in culture, heritage and archaeology, social sciences, international relations, or related areas is desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, with a preference for three years at the international level. Experience in managing intergovernmental processes and programs in culture is crucial, along with demonstrated leadership capabilities.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English or French is mandatory, with very good knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of other official UNESCO languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and/or Spanish) is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for two years, renewable. It is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is $126,891, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to achieving gender parity and equitable geographical distribution among its staff.