Director of Social and Human Sciences

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. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building inclusive societies through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization is committed to fostering sustainable development and promoting human rights, gender equality, and cultural diversity.

Job Overview:
The Director of Social and Human Sciences will provide strategic direction and intellectual leadership to UNESCO's initiatives aimed at leveraging social and human sciences to foster inclusive societies. This role involves overseeing the implementation of ethical standards in science and technology, addressing issues such as racism, discrimination, and human rights, and empowering youth and women. The incumbent will manage the division, ensuring effective planning and resource mobilization to fulfill the Division's mandate. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including Member States, civil society, and the private sector, to promote research and inclusion in line with UNESCO's global priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will be responsible for managing the division's operations, including the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs related to social and human sciences. Key duties include overseeing the development of biennial work plans, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among sections, and representing UNESCO in high-level meetings. The incumbent will also lead initiatives such as the Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination. Additional responsibilities include fostering partnerships, guiding research delivery, and ensuring the alignment of SHS programs with UNESCO's strategic objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in social and human sciences, technology, bioethics, or related fields. A minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience is required, with a focus on policy development and technology policy, including at least five years at the international level. Proven managerial and leadership experience, along with a track record of establishing partnerships and advocating for resource mobilization, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, political sensitivity, and the ability to lead diverse teams in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in fields such as social and human sciences, technology, bioethics, or public policies is required. A PhD in a related field is desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of progressive professional experience, particularly in policy development and technology policy, with a minimum of five years in an international context. Experience in leadership roles overseeing social and human sciences, ethics of technology, and intergovernmental bodies is crucial.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English or French is mandatory, with a working knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of additional UNESCO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and/or Spanish) is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, renewable. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is 177,045 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 under-represented groups.