Housing Policy Specialist

Organizational Context

UN-Habitat, the UN agency for human settlements, promotes sustainable towns and cities globally to ensure adequate shelter for all. The Canada Office, based in Montreal, acts as a hub for partnerships, research, and policy engagement in North America, focusing on sustainable urbanization and innovative housing solutions. This role supports the office's mission and contributes to global housing dialogues.

Job Purpose

The Housing Policy Specialist will provide crucial support in data management and generate evidence-based insights on international and domestic housing policies. This role is vital for strengthening UN-Habitat's housing programs by consolidating research and knowledge products. The specialist will contribute to the global exchange of Canadian expertise in sustainable and inclusive housing and urban development, aligning with UN-Habitat's strategic plan and global housing agenda. The position aims to accelerate the development of affordable, adequate, and resilient housing solutions.

Responsibilities

Conduct applied and comparative research on housing market policies, governance, and regulations across OECD and global contexts. Design and implement quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to analyze housing market dynamics and affordability. Draft analytical papers, technical notes, and policy briefs synthesizing research findings on housing policy instruments and coordination. Examine policy drivers and barriers affecting housing supply, integrating equity and inclusion perspectives. Prepare case studies on successful housing reforms and policy coordination. Support intergovernmental policy dialogues and expert consultations. Analyze and summarize findings for dissemination through UN-Habitat platforms. Develop knowledge products and digital tools for housing policy data. Contribute to project monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. Engage with stakeholders to strengthen research partnerships and validate findings. Prepare briefings and recommendations for housing policy reform.

Work Experience

A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in applied research and policy analysis is required, including designing and implementing quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Demonstrated ability to conduct comparative research on housing supply, adequacy, and affordability, and to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences is essential. Experience analyzing housing models in OECD countries and drafting policy briefs is required. Experience with UN systems or international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Applied research and policy analysis, quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, data management, knowledge management, report writing, policy brief development, stakeholder engagement, comparative analysis, housing market analysis, sustainable urbanization, urban development, communication, advocacy.

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