Head of the UNESCO Office in Sudan

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. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO's core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its operations and interactions with member states and partners.

Job Overview:
The Head of the UNESCO Office in Sudan will be responsible for managing the multidisciplinary program of the Office, providing intellectual, strategic, and operational leadership in planning and implementing activities that address the priority needs of Sudan across all of UNESCO's fields of competence. This role requires a deep understanding of the local context and the ability to advocate for UNESCO's work in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the government, UN agencies, NGOs, and development banks. The incumbent will also ensure effective management of human resources, administration, security, and operations in accordance with UNESCO's policies and procedures, while maintaining effective internal controls. The position is critical in representing UNESCO in all meetings and activities of the United Nations Country Team in Sudan, ensuring that the organization's objectives align with national priorities and international development agendas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of the UNESCO Office in Sudan include:

• Managing the overall operations of the UNESCO Office in Sudan, ensuring alignment with the organization's strategic goals and priorities.
• Leading the planning and implementation of programs and projects that address the educational, scientific, and cultural needs of Sudan.
• Advocating for UNESCO's mission and objectives in consultations with government officials, UN agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Overseeing the management of human resources, ensuring effective recruitment, training, and development of staff.
• Ensuring compliance with UNESCO's policies and procedures in all operational aspects, including financial management and security protocols.
• Participating in UN Country Team meetings and activities, representing UNESCO's interests and contributions to collective efforts in Sudan.
• Building and maintaining partnerships with national and international organizations to mobilize resources and support for UNESCO's initiatives.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of programs and projects, providing reports and recommendations for improvement.
• Engaging in policy dialogue at various levels to influence decision-making processes related to education, science, and culture in Sudan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a discipline related to UNESCO’s mandate, such as public or business administration, international relations, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to the organization's mission and values, with proven leadership capabilities and a high level of professional integrity. Skills in administration, financial management, and human resources are essential, along with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field that aligns with UNESCO's mandate. This may include disciplines such as public administration, business administration, international relations, or other related areas that provide a strong foundation for managing complex programs and initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten (10) years of progressive professional experience at a management level within the United Nations system or other international or national institutions. This experience should encompass a wide range of development issues related to UNESCO’s areas of competence, including project design, implementation, and management, as well as advocacy and resource mobilization. Experience in conflict or crisis response is also highly desirable, particularly in the context of Sudan.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in English are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official languages of UNESCO, particularly Arabic, is considered a desirable qualification that can enhance communication and engagement with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The role is classified at the P-5 level, indicating a senior management position within UNESCO. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 144,694 USD, 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 candidates of various backgrounds, including those from under-represented member states, minority groups, and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, and all applications will be treated with confidentiality.