Principal Political Affairs Officer (Head of Office)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan (OPESG-SUDAN) is dedicated to leading good offices and political engagement with various stakeholders to enhance efforts aimed at resolving the conflict in Sudan. The organization focuses on fostering coherence, coordination, and integration of mediation initiatives. It operates primarily in Sudan and engages with regional and international partners to facilitate a credible political process. The office is located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and plays a crucial role in the United Nations' efforts to stabilize the region and promote peace.

Job Overview:
The Principal Political Affairs Officer (Head of Office) is tasked with overseeing the operations of the office, ensuring alignment with the strategic guidance provided by the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General (PESG). This role involves assessing political and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues related to Sudan, proposing interventions, and devising strategies to achieve the office's objectives. The officer will implement operational activities, foster dialogue among conflicting parties, and enhance coordination among various mediation initiatives. Additionally, the officer will represent the PESG, develop outreach strategies to engage with the Sudanese population, and ensure that local perceptions inform the office's activities and policymaking processes. The position requires strong leadership to promote collaboration and communication within the office and with other UN agencies, ensuring high-quality reporting and operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing the office's activities in accordance with the PESG's mandate. Key responsibilities include analyzing political and security developments in Sudan, providing strategic recommendations, implementing operational activities, and fostering dialogue among stakeholders. The officer will also develop relationships with political leaders, civil society, and international partners, ensuring that the office's activities are informed by local perspectives. Regular reporting to the PESG and UN Headquarters is essential, as is the management of programmatic and administrative tasks. The officer will supervise staff, mentor team members, and ensure data-driven decision-making processes. Other duties may be assigned by the PESG as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive knowledge of the UN's role in preventive diplomacy and conflict resolution, with the ability to analyze complex political situations and provide strategic advice. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for building relationships with national and international stakeholders. The ability to produce high-quality written analyses and reports is crucial, as is a thorough understanding of UN regulations and policies. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and leadership qualities, with a commitment to gender balance and inclusivity in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, successful completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to analyze and interpret data effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience at the international level in advisory and managerial roles related to political science, international relations, law, or conflict resolution is required. Candidates must have at least three years of experience working in a UN field operation or similar international organization, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Experience in supporting mediation efforts and political outreach is essential, along with at least five years of experience focused on peace and security issues in Sudan. Managing multicultural teams for a minimum of three years is also required, with additional experience in data analytics being desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is mandatory for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The appointment is subject to the conditions of temporary assignments within the UN system. Candidates should note that this temporary job opening may be limited to internal candidates or those who meet specific eligibility criteria based on their current employment status within the UN. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.