CHIEF OF PROTOCOL

Organizational Context

The Chief of Protocol position is within the autonomous Protocol and Liaison Service, part of the Office of the Director-General at the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG). The role operates under the Director-General's overall guidance, with delegated authority to make decisions in matters of protocol and liaison, supporting UNOG's diplomatic functions and high-level interactions.

Job Purpose

The Chief of Protocol leads and manages the Protocol and Liaison Service within the UN Office at Geneva, ensuring seamless diplomatic engagement and adherence to international protocol. This role is crucial for maintaining optimal relations with Permanent and Observer Missions and Host Country authorities at all levels. The incumbent provides authoritative advice to the Director-General and other UN entities on complex protocol and Host Country matters. Key contributions include planning and coordinating high-level visits of Heads of State and Government, managing the accreditation of Permanent Representatives, and overseeing protocol servicing for major international conferences. The position acts as a central point for high-level visits involving the Secretary-General, ensuring all diplomatic courtesies and procedures are meticulously observed, thereby upholding the UN's diplomatic standing and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

The Chief of Protocol is responsible for planning, directing, and supervising comprehensive protocol servicing and diplomatic liaison with Permanent and Observer Missions to UNOG. This includes initiating and maintaining robust relations with Host Country authorities at federal, cantonal, and municipal levels. The role provides authoritative advice to the Director-General on protocol and Host Country matters, and to other UN entities in Switzerland on general protocol. Key duties involve planning, coordinating, and assisting Missions with high-level visits of Heads of State and Government to Geneva, ensuring the Director-General's appropriate participation, and acting as the focal point for visits by the Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General. The incumbent directs the drafting of official correspondence, manages the accreditation process for new Permanent Representatives, and maintains regular contact with diplomatic missions regarding protocol, privileges, immunities, and precedence. Furthermore, the Chief of Protocol manages protocol services for major international conferences, provides leadership and managerial oversight for the Protocol and Liaison Service and its staff, and represents the Director-General at official ceremonies as required.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in international relations and diplomacy is required, with at least 10 years within the UN system. This must include 10 years in diplomatic protocol and liaison, engaging with Permanent Missions and high-level officials. Proven experience advising high-level officials and managing complex logistics for international events/conferences is essential. Leadership experience of a team or unit is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism: Comprehensive knowledge of UN policies, authoritative protocol advice, diplomatic practice, political awareness, discretion, attention to detail. Communication: Clear and effective written and verbal communication, active listening, tailoring messages. Teamwork: Collaborative work, valuing input, supporting collective goals. Leadership: Empowering others, strategic planning, relationship building, conflict resolution, driving change, gender perspective. Judgement/Decision-making: Identifying key issues, informed decision-making, considering impacts, making tough decisions.

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