Director of Administration

Organizational Context

The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) promotes sustainable and inclusive development in the Asia-Pacific region. As a UN Secretariat regional arm, it provides policy research, analysis, and capacity-building support. This role leads the Division of Administration, overseeing essential services like procurement, HR, finance, IT, and facilities management, and reporting to the Executive Secretary.

Job Purpose

The Director of Administration is responsible for the effective and efficient management of all administrative support services for ESCAP and client entities, ensuring compliance with UN regulations and policies. This role provides strategic advice to the Executive Secretary on resource management, supports data-informed decision-making, and leads the development of robust frameworks for resource and asset management aligned with UN 2.0 initiatives. The Director develops and implements strategies for key administrative functions including HR, finance, procurement, ICT, conference services, and real estate, while also preparing reports for senior management and legislative bodies, managing audits, and overseeing budget and resource utilization. The position champions organizational reform, promotes inter-agency coordination, and drives innovation in service delivery to enhance operational efficiency and staff capacity.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic advice to the Executive Secretary on integrated financial, human, and physical resource management, aligning with UN reform initiatives and modernizing planning, budgeting, and talent management. Lead the development and operationalization of resource and asset management frameworks, ensuring fiduciary integrity and organizational agility under UN 2.0. Develop and implement strategies for administrative services including human resources, finance, procurement, ICT, conference services, real estate, and central support. Prepare major reports for senior management and UN legislative bodies, provide guidance on strategic planning, policies, and risk management, and manage internal/external audits. Develop cost plans, monitor expenditures, and provide guidance on financial and resource planning. Supervise and provide policy advisory services, promote reform initiatives, and lead inter-agency coordination. Ensure high-quality outputs and service standards, implementing innovative strategies for sustainable operations and service management. Lead, coordinate, and manage the Division's work, fostering teamwork and staff development.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in administration (finance, HR, IT, procurement, etc.) is required. Experience leading large, multi-functional administrative services in a multi-entity setting, with a deep understanding of UN administrative rules and reform agendas, is essential. Experience in leading business transformation, process simplification, and digitization of administrative services is also required.

Skills

Strategic advice, resource management, data-informed decision-making, financial management, human resources management, procurement, ICT services, conference services management, real estate management, reporting, audit management, budget monitoring, policy advisory, inter-agency coordination, service delivery innovation, leadership, staff supervision, teamwork, communication, planning and organizing, client orientation, judgment, and decision-making.

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