Deputy Head of Mission

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE operates in 57 participating states across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, focusing on conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The organization employs thousands of staff members and has a diverse workforce representing various nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. The OSCE is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity within its operations, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected in its mission to enhance security and cooperation among its member states.

Job Overview:
As the Deputy Head of Mission, you will play a crucial role in supporting the Head of Mission in the development and execution of OSCE policies, programs, and operations. This position entails working closely with the Conflict Prevention Centre and the South-Eastern Europe Desk to ensure the effective implementation of the Mission's mandate as outlined in the General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You will be responsible for overseeing the coordination and management of various programs within the Mission, addressing operational, logistical, and administrative matters. Additionally, you will represent the Head of Mission at high-level international gatherings and coordinate meetings with other international organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Your role will involve regular engagement with senior officials across political, economic, and social structures, as well as with civil society and media, to foster collaboration and support for the Mission's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
In your capacity as Deputy Head of Mission, you will oversee and coordinate the implementation of the Mission's plans, policies, and programs, ensuring alignment with the Mission's objectives. You will supervise assigned Programme Managers and guide the work of various sections and units within the Office of the Head of Mission. Your responsibilities will include advising the Head of Mission on programmatic, management, administrative, and policy matters, as well as supporting strategic planning and development efforts. You will maintain regular communication with international stakeholders, governmental representatives, and civil society organizations, while also supporting advocacy, visibility, and resource mobilization initiatives. In the absence of the Head of Mission, you will serve as Officer-in-Charge and perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall success of the Mission's operations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess diplomatic experience or experience working in political affairs with international organizations or governments. A strong background in preparing analytical reports and program management is essential, along with excellent communication and drafting skills. Candidates should have a solid understanding of regional political history and developments, as well as diplomatic and negotiating skills. Familiarity with OSCE principles and commitments is also required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate proven management, mentoring, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across diverse cultural, religious, and political backgrounds. A commitment to impartiality and objectivity is crucial in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a second-level university degree in political sciences, public or law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, international relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the second-level degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations and the political landscape in which the OSCE operates.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of relevant, diversified, and progressively responsible professional experience is required for this position. This experience should include at least 5 years at the management level relevant to the actual position. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of success in managing programs and leading teams in complex environments, particularly in the context of international missions or organizations.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of local languages or the most common lingua franca spoken in the Mission area is desirable, as it can enhance engagement with local stakeholders and facilitate effective communication within the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, and candidates must be internationally recruited to work in a duty station outside of their home country or country of permanent residence. Nationals and permanent residents of the duty station are not eligible for this position. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The maximum period of service in this post or in the same Mission is seven years, and candidates should be aware that OSCE appointments are subject to medical clearance. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.