Culture Programme Coordinator

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Position Title: Culture Programme Coordinator
Location: Beirut
Country: Lebanon
Deadline Date: 26-MAR-2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to foster cultural diversity, protect heritage, and promote education for all. The organization employs thousands of professionals worldwide, working across various sectors including education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture, and communication/information.

Job Overview:
The Culture Programme Coordinator 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 the UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut. This role involves coordinating culture-related programs and projects across several countries, including Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and Palestine. The incumbent will be responsible for the design, development, planning, monitoring, and implementation of activities under Major Programme IV – Culture. This includes preparing inputs for UNESCO's Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme and Budget, developing partnerships, and engaging in fundraising activities. The role also emphasizes emergency preparedness and response in conflict or disaster-affected areas, aligning with UNESCO's strategies for protecting culture and promoting cultural pluralism. The incumbent will contribute to initiatives related to UNESCO's global priorities, such as Africa and Gender Equality, and will work on capacity-building, policy advice, and technical assistance in the culture sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will ensure the effective delivery of the Culture Programme in the designated countries, aligning with the Culture Sector’s strategies. Responsibilities include facilitating coordination at the sub-regional level, providing technical advice to National Offices, and contributing to the design and implementation of culture-related programs funded by both the Regular Programme and voluntary contributions. The role requires the preparation of reports and briefings on program implementation, providing policy advice and technical assistance to stakeholders, and developing capacity-building activities for Member States and cultural institutions. The incumbent will also engage in resource mobilization, build partnerships with various organizations, and develop actions in line with UN Reform initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in culture, social sciences, political science, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, humanities, or a related discipline. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the culture field is required, with at least three years at the international level. Proven experience in designing and implementing culture programs and fundraising is essential. Excellent project management skills, the ability to make sound decisions, and strong communication skills are also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in relevant fields such as culture, social sciences, political science, international law, or humanities is mandatory. A PhD in a related discipline is desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, with a preference for three years acquired at the international level. Experience in designing and implementing culture-related programs and demonstrated fundraising capabilities are crucial for this position.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English (both written and oral) or French is mandatory, along with a good knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of additional UNESCO official languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, with the possibility of renewal. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is $123,282, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes a commitment to 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 promotes a non-smoking environment.