Resident Coordinator (Guatemala)

Organizational Context

The Resident Coordinator (RC) system, established by the UN General Assembly, ensures coordinated development activities at the country level. The RC is the highest-ranking UN development system representative, leading country teams and ensuring accountability for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and the 2030 Agenda. Reporting to the Secretary-General, the RC works to advance sustainable development and eradicate poverty, guided by international frameworks.

Job Purpose

The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking UN development system representative at the country level, reporting directly to the Secretary-General. The primary purpose of this role is to lead UN country teams, ensuring system-wide accountability for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and coordinating UN support for the country's implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This involves representing the UN at the highest levels, fostering partnerships with government, civil society, and other stakeholders, and advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RC also supports and catalyzes the work of individual UN agencies, promotes UN values, and facilitates collaboration to achieve collective results and advance sustainable development, leaving no one behind.

Responsibilities

Represents the UN at the highest state levels, fostering engagement with government, civil society, and partners to address national needs and advance the 2030 Agenda. Leads the UN country team in developing, monitoring, and implementing the UN Cooperation Framework. Coordinates system-wide UN support, identifying and mitigating risks to SDG achievement. Advocates for UN values, human rights, and gender equality, promoting the SDG commitment to leave no one behind. Forges strategic partnerships at national and sub-national levels. Leverages UN system expertise to improve shared results and ensure alignment with national priorities. Provides oversight for country financing instruments and pursues funding for joint UN efforts. Fosters an enabling environment for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation. Leads strategic communication to promote the 2030 Agenda and generates public support. Manages security coordination when appointed as Designated Official. Promotes staff learning and implements policies on PSEA and gender parity. Oversees UN common business operations for efficiency and coherence. In humanitarian contexts, leads and coordinates response efforts. In conflict settings, integrates UNCT work with peacekeeping missions.

Work Experience

Over 15 years of international leadership experience is required, including at least five years in development, human rights, rule of law, peace-building, or humanitarian work at the country level outside one's own country. Previous Resident Coordinator experience is mandatory. Experience as a senior official responsible for security is desirable.

Skills

Leadership, coordination, strategic partnerships, advocacy, political acumen, analysis, communication, security management, inter-agency collaboration, resource mobilization, innovation, promoting UN values (human rights, gender equality, PSEA).

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