Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Secretary-General in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is a part of the United Nations Secretariat. Its mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy, and it operates in over 190 countries. UNCTAD focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, providing research, policy analysis, and technical assistance to developing nations. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to fostering economic growth and development across the globe.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer will lead the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of various programmes and operations within UNCTAD. This role involves providing program-related advice and services to the Office of the Secretary-General, conducting research and analysis, coordinating policy development, and generating survey initiatives. The Programme Officer will also be responsible for managing results-based management (RBM) methodologies, ensuring effective implementation of these methodologies, and providing guidance to senior officials on RBM-related matters. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying innovative solutions and best practices for enhancing organizational effectiveness and achieving strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide program-related advice and services to the Office of the Secretary-General, including consulting assignments, planning workshops, and developing action plans.
• Research, analyze, and present information from diverse sources, coordinating policy development and preparing evaluations.
• Generate survey initiatives, design data collection tools, and analyze responses to identify bottlenecks and recommend resolutions.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends, providing insights through data visualization methods.
• Lead complex field missions, providing guidance to external consultants and drafting mission summaries.
• Coordinate activities related to UNCTAD’s contributions in various United Nations interagency mechanisms.
• Manage budget funding activities, including programme/project preparation and submissions.
• Provide advisory services on results-based management, managing the work of UNCTAD's Results-based Management Coordination Group.
• Identify innovative approaches for implementing results-based management and coordinate related activities. 1
• Conduct research and provide analytical work for decision-making and coordination. 1
• Organize outreach activities, training workshops, and expert group meetings. 1
• Provide substantive support to intergovernmental bodies and perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of results-based management theories and concepts. They should have the ability to identify and analyze issues, conduct data collection, and interpret data for decision-making. Candidates should demonstrate professional competence, efficiency in meeting commitments, and the ability to incorporate gender perspectives in their work. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should also exhibit planning and organizing skills, creativity in problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in these areas, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of training in data analytics, business analytics, or data science programs is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area is required. Candidates must have at least three years of experience applying results-based management concepts in an international organization and developing RBM tools. Experience in coordinating and preparing programmes of work in international organizations, as well as in monitoring and evaluation, is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and budgetary approval. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from underrepresented member states. The position may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations, and reasonable accommodation may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.