Country Representative

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization merges the resources and mandates of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, namely DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM, which focused on gender equality. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, promoting mutual respect, and ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and competence. UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. The organization is actively involved in various international commitments and frameworks to advance gender equality and women's empowerment.

Job Overview:
The Country Representative for UN Women in Mexico is responsible for leading and managing the Mexico Country Office (CO) portfolio. This role involves translating UN Women's Strategic Plan into development initiatives and results that align with regional and national priorities. The Country Representative will develop, implement, and manage programs and projects, ensuring effective partnerships with government counterparts, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and donors. The position requires a strategic approach to country program planning and development, with a focus on gender equality and women's empowerment. The Country Representative will also serve as a member of the UN Country Team (UNCT), collaborating on programming and advocacy to integrate gender issues into UN processes. Additionally, the role involves representing UN Women in intergovernmental forums and leading advocacy strategies to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the strategic country programme planning and development, including leading the design and implementation of the Country Strategic Note in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Oversee the Mexico Country Office operations, ensuring the delivery of operational goals and compliance with UN Women regulations.
• Provide support to the Resident Coordinator and serve as a member of the UN Country Team, ensuring gender issues are integrated into UN programming.
• Represent UN Women in various forums and meetings, advocating for gender equality and women's empowerment.
• Create and maintain strategic partnerships and manage resource mobilization strategies to support program development.
• Lead knowledge management and capacity building initiatives within the CO.
• Oversee the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of personnel and organizational assets.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree or equivalent in development-related disciplines, economics, public policy, or social sciences. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A project/programme management certification (such as PMP®, PRINCE2®, or MSP®) is an added advantage. Candidates must have at least 10 years of progressively responsible development experience, including strategic and managerial leadership in development cooperation at the international level. Experience in gender and women's issues programming, particularly within the UN system, is essential. Field-based experience with multicultural teams and experience in leading and coaching staff in international settings are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in development-related fields, economics, public policy, or other social sciences. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying experience. A project/programme management certification is desirable.

Experience:
At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in development cooperation, with a focus on strategic and managerial leadership at the international level. Experience in gender and women's issues programming, particularly in developing countries and within the UN system, is required. Field experience with multicultural teams and experience in leading and coaching staff in international settings are essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Working knowledge of Portuguese is desirable, and knowledge of another official UN language (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian) is also desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position involves leading a team of 33, including 8 direct reports. The role is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UN Women offers a competitive compensation package and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and training.