Job Advertisement

Position Title: Social and Human Sciences Programme Manager
Location: Beijing
Country: China
Deadline Date: 06-JAN-2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security by promoting International Cooperation in education, Natural Sciences, social and human sciences, culture, and communication and information. UNESCO comprises 194 Member States and 12 Associate Members, employing over 2,300 staff members from more than 170 nationalities across its Headquarters and 54 field offices worldwide. The organization is dedicated to fostering Knowledge Sharing and the free flow of ideas to enhance cross-cultural understanding, and it plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges through its various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The position of Social and Human Sciences Programme Manager is situated within UNESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector (SHS). The incumbent will be responsible for advancing major flagships of SHS in the region covered by the Beijing Office, which includes China, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Japan, Mongolia, and Republic of Korea. This role involves identifying regional priorities, fostering partnerships with public and private sectors, and overseeing the Design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the UNESCO Social and Human Sciences Programme. The incumbent will also ensure SHS’s contribution to the United Nations Country Team's programmatic work and the Delivering as One exercise in the countries covered by the Office. The position requires a strong focus on enhancing the effectiveness of SHS programmes, particularly in areas such as AI ethics, Gender Equality, and social inclusion, while aligning these efforts with regional needs and local priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of tasks, including enhancing the effectiveness of SHS programmes by focusing on key initiatives such as the Recommendation on AI ethics and neurotechnology. Responsibilities include managing, coordinating, implementing, and monitoring SHS programmes in the designated countries, preparing inputs for Programme and Budget documents, conducting research aligned with national policy needs, providing strategic and operational advice to governments, and developing strategic partnerships to mobilize extra-budgetary resources. The role also involves liaising with various stakeholders, including local communities and international organizations, to reinforce the Regular Programme and promote SHS Sector priority areas. Additionally, the incumbent will be responsible for integrating findings from regular programme reviews and upcoming regional events into the overall strategy and execution of SHS initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s) in social and human sciences, political science, or a related discipline. A minimum of 7 years of progressive relevant professional experience in social and human sciences at both national and international levels is required, with at least 3 years acquired at the international level. Candidates should have a good understanding of evidence-based policy responses to advance socio-economic outcomes, knowledge of governance of emerging technologies, and experience in thematic areas such as youth policies, sports for social transformations, and gender equality. Experience in managing research programmes and excellent networks in academic institutions are also essential, along with experience in Fundraising and resource mobilization.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s) in the field of social and human sciences, political science, or a related discipline is required. A Ph.D. or equivalent in social human sciences or a related discipline is desirable, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of progressive relevant professional experience in social and human sciences, with at least 3 years at the international level. This experience should encompass a broad range of activities, including managing research programmes, developing policies, and engaging with various stakeholders to advance the objectives of the SHS sector.

Languages:
Knowledge of other official UN languages (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset. Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary working language of UNESCO.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, which is renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is 128,902 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 candidates of diverse backgrounds, including those from under-represented Member States, minority groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to achieving Gender Parity among its staff.