Protocol Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Protocol Officer
Location: Dakar
Country: Senegal
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) is an integral part of the United Nations system, established to promote peace and stability in the West African region and the Sahel. UNOWAS operates across multiple countries in West Africa and the Sahel, focusing on conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding efforts. The organization aims to enhance cooperation among member states and foster regional integration. UNOWAS is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter and works collaboratively with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to achieve its mission. The office is staffed by a diverse team of professionals dedicated to addressing the complex challenges faced by the region, and it plays a crucial role in supporting the UN's broader goals of peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security.

Job Overview:
The Protocol Officer position is a critical role within UNOWAS, responsible for managing protocol and liaison issues for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and senior mission officials. The officer will provide expert advice and assistance on protocol matters, ensuring that diplomatic privileges and immunities are respected and facilitating effective communication with host country authorities. The role involves significant travel and coordination of high-level events, requiring a deep understanding of international relations and protocol practices. The Protocol Officer will play a key role in enhancing the visibility and effectiveness of UNOWAS's mission through meticulous planning and execution of protocol arrangements, thereby contributing to the overall success of the organization's objectives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protocol Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including advising the SRSG and senior officials on protocol issues, managing travel arrangements, and ensuring that all necessary protocol processes are followed during official missions. The officer will coordinate attendance at events, assist in organizing national and regional conferences, and maintain communication with national authorities and embassies. Additionally, the Protocol Officer will prepare official correspondence, assist mission personnel with visa matters, and ensure that all protocol arrangements are in place for high-level visits. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism and discretion in all interactions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in protocol and international relations, with a proven ability to navigate complex diplomatic environments. The position requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Candidates should demonstrate a high level of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the principles of the United Nations. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders is essential, as is the capacity to communicate effectively in both written and spoken formats.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Law, Political Sciences, Public Relations, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the legal and diplomatic frameworks within which the UN operates, as well as for effectively engaging with various stakeholders in the region.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the field of protocol is required. Candidates should have experience in planning and organizing activities in an international context, with a preference for those who have worked in United Nations field missions. Experience in conflict or post-conflict settings, particularly in West Africa and the Sahel region, is highly desirable. This experience will enable the Protocol Officer to navigate the unique challenges and dynamics of the region effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the officer's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The appointment to this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions throughout their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity within its workforce, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not request any fees from applicants at any stage.