Political Affairs Officer
Organizational Context
This role is within the Policy and Mediation Division of the UN Secretariat's Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. The Guidance and Learning Unit focuses on knowledge management, guidance, lessons learned, and training. It also addresses cross-cutting issues for Special Political Missions, including transitions and integration. The position leads this Unit.
Job Purpose
The Political Affairs Officer serves as the Team Leader for the Guidance and Learning Unit, overseeing its operations and strategic development. This includes leading the creation and promotion of policies, guidance, and training for the Department, and managing its knowledge management system through lessons learned and after-action reviews. The role supports Special Political Missions with guidance and learning, prepares analytical reports for UN bodies, and drafts communications for senior officials. The officer represents the Department in interagency forums, collaborates with external partners, and contributes to the Division's overall management and administrative functions, including staff planning and budget.
Responsibilities
Lead and oversee the Guidance and Learning Unit, managing all its work aspects. Develop and promote policies, guidance, and training for the Department, coordinating with other UN entities. Enhance the Department's knowledge management system by conducting lessons learned exercises and after-action reviews. Provide guidance and learning support to Special Political Missions and regional desks, including briefings for senior representatives. Prepare analytical reports and inputs on sensitive political matters for UN bodies. Draft correspondence, talking points, and speeches for senior officials on departmental policies and cross-cutting issues. Represent the Department in interagency policy forums and liaise with external organizations and governments. Contribute to the management of the Policy and Mediation Division and assist with administrative functions like staff planning and budget.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of experience in political science, international relations, law, security, conflict resolution, or a related field is required. Experience with UN peace and security operations, knowledge management, guidance development, strategic planning, and Special Political Missions is also required. Experience in UN integration, team leadership, and project management is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Teamwork, Planning and Organizing, Judgment/Decision Making, knowledge of UN peace and security operations, knowledge of mission planning, research and analytical skills, drafting skills, partnership development, collaborative work, knowledge management, guidance development, strategic planning, UN integration, team leadership, project management.