Director, Administration

Organizational Context

The Division of Administration (DA) within the UN Secretariat's Department of Operational Support (DOS) in New York provides essential administrative support. Its scope includes facilities management, commercial services, insurance, payroll, accounts payable, and tax functions. The Division comprises several key units and operates under the direct supervision of the Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support.

Job Purpose

The Director of Administration is responsible for providing executive direction and management for the Division of Administration, ensuring efficient and effective functioning of its various elements. This role involves contributing to the department's strategic vision and policies, leading innovative change management programs, and formulating and implementing the Division's work program. The Director oversees all activities, resource allocation, and coordination within the Division and with external entities. A key aspect is ensuring high standards of output, managing staff effectively, and representing the Organization in relevant forums, all while reporting directly to the Under-Secretary-General.

Responsibilities

The Director oversees the Division of Administration's strategic direction, contributing to departmental policies and vision. Responsibilities include executive direction, management, and coordination of the Division's efficient functioning and programmed activities. The role involves leading innovative and change management initiatives, formulating and implementing the substantive work program, and allocating resources. The Director manages activities, coordinates work internally and externally, and oversees the preparation of reports for legislative bodies. Interaction with oversight bodies, ensuring high output standards, and managing programmatic/administrative tasks like budgeting and performance monitoring are crucial. Staff management, including recruitment, development, and fostering teamwork, is also a key responsibility, alongside representing the Organization and maintaining host country relations.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in administration, financial management, HR, operational support, facilities management, logistics, or budget is required. This includes at least 5 years of technical leadership and managing diverse teams. Experience in change management, business improvement, or innovation projects is also required. Experience with intergovernmental bodies and in senior UN system roles is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Accountability, Client Orientation, Leadership, Judgement/Decision Making, Managerial and conceptual skills, Strategic vision, Change management, Financial management, Human resources management, Operational support, Facilities management, Budgeting, Reporting, Staff development, Interpersonal and communication skills.

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