Deputy Executive Secretary

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing ECA's position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing solutions to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Executive Secretary (Programme Support) plays a crucial role in assisting the Executive Secretary in fulfilling ECA's mandate. This position involves strategic oversight and operational performance of various divisions, including the Sub-Regional Offices (SROs) and the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP). The Deputy Executive Secretary will coordinate the work of divisions, ensure effective resource mobilization, and represent the Executive Secretary in engagements with key stakeholders. The role requires a strong focus on aligning the activities of the SROs with ECA's broader initiatives and enhancing synergy between headquarters and regional offices. The Deputy Executive Secretary will also be responsible for human resources management and administrative support, ensuring that the Commission's work aligns with its strategic priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Executive Secretary will assist in planning, coordinating, and managing ECA's programme support functions. Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinating the work of divisions under supervision to implement the Commission's mandate.
• Ensuring IDEP/SROs contribute effectively to knowledge generation and policy advocacy.
• Strengthening coordination between IDEP/SROs and ECA headquarters.
• Leading resource mobilization efforts for sustainable financing.
• Representing the Executive Secretary in engagements with stakeholders.
• Advising on human resources management and administrative support.
• Overseeing administrative and programme support operations.
• Managing human, financial, and material resources.
• Developing and monitoring work plans and strategies. 1
• Establishing policies and procedures for budget and resource management. 1
• Liaising with national authorities on administrative matters. 1
• Supporting ECA's think tank and research functions. 1
• Acting as Chairperson of interdivisional management support committees. 1
• Providing guidance and mentoring to staff. 1
• Representing the Commission before legislative bodies and at meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced knowledge in human resources, financial management, and administrative areas. Strong negotiation and conflict-resolution skills are essential. The ability to provide specialized advice and ensure compliance with organizational regulations is required. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and leadership qualities, with a commitment to gender balance and diversity in staffing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in business or public administration, human resources management, finance, accounting, social science, or a related area is required. A PhD in a relevant field is an advantage. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's or equivalent) with additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have over fifteen years of experience in administration, budget, financial management, logistics, or related fields. Experience in leading programmatic planning and implementation, particularly in developing countries, is required. Demonstrated experience in managing organizational budgets and operations is essential, along with experience in audit matters and handling multidisciplinary tasks.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French, the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, is required. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Staff members appointed to this position must submit a financial disclosure statement upon assignment. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.