Representative’s Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld in all countries, advocating for the rights of individuals and communities. The organization operates in various countries, engaging with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights issues. The OHCHR is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, emphasizing the importance of geographic diversity in its recruitment processes.

Job Overview:
The Representative’s Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the Office of the Representative by providing both substantive and administrative assistance. This position involves managing the workflow and priorities of the Representative and their Deputy, ensuring that directives and decisions are executed effectively. The incumbent will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data from various sources, serving as a communication link between the supervisor and staff, and managing time and scheduling efficiently. The role requires a proactive approach to handling complex information requests and inquiries, as well as preparing materials for reports and presentations. The Representative’s Assistant will also be involved in organizing meetings and official receptions, ensuring that all logistical arrangements are handled smoothly. This position demands a high level of professionalism, communication skills, and organizational abilities to support the Office effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Representative’s Assistant include: assisting in the overall administration of the Office, providing substantive and administrative support, coordinating and monitoring diverse activities, collecting and analyzing data, serving as a communication link, managing time and scheduling, undertaking representational duties, screening and prioritizing correspondence, compiling background documents, researching and summarizing materials for reports, handling complex information requests, supporting presentations to intergovernmental bodies, establishing administrative procedures, organizing official receptions and meetings, preparing and processing confidential information, managing various administrative duties, exercising quality control over outgoing documents, and updating internal databases. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of office and administrative support processes, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of seven years of experience in general office support and related areas is required, with at least three years of experience providing support to senior officials. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may have the minimum experience requirement reduced to five years. Proficiency in drafting correspondence and communication materials using MS Office packages is essential, along with experience in organizing meetings and preparing reports. Experience within the United Nations common system or similar international organizations is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates with higher education qualifications, such as a first-level university degree, may be preferred and can have a reduced experience requirement.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in general office support and related areas. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with five years of experience. At least three years of experience providing support to senior officials, including administrative coordination and workflow management, is mandatory. Experience in drafting correspondence and organizing meetings is also required, with a preference for candidates who have worked within the United Nations or similar international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish (both oral and written) is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in Mexico City. The appointment may be extended based on the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment processes, and candidates with a history of violations of international human rights law or other serious offenses will not be considered for employment. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.