Resident Coordinator (South Africa)

Organizational Context

The Resident Coordinator (RC) system, established by the General Assembly, coordinates the UN development system at the country level. The RC is the highest-ranking UN representative, leading UN Country Teams to ensure accountability for the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and support the 2030 Agenda. Reporting to the Secretary-General, the RC works to advance sustainable development and eradicate poverty.

Job Purpose

The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking UN representative at the country level, leading UN Country Teams to coordinate operational development activities and ensure system-wide accountability for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The role is crucial for coordinating UN support to countries in implementing the 2030 Agenda and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RC represents the UN at the highest levels, fosters engagement with national governments and diverse partners, and advocates for UN values and the SDG commitment to leave no one behind. This position involves strategic leadership, partnership building, risk mitigation, and leveraging the UN system's collective expertise to address national needs and advance sustainable development.

Responsibilities

Represent the UN at the highest levels, engaging government, civil society, and partners to advance the 2030 Agenda and SDGs. Lead the UN Country Team (UNCT) in coordinating operational development activities and implementing the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. Coordinate system-wide support, identify and mitigate risks to SDG achievement, and advocate for UN values, human rights, and gender equality. Forge strategic partnerships with diverse national and sub-national entities. Leverage UN system expertise to improve shared results and ensure alignment with national priorities. Oversee country financing instruments and pursue funding for joint UN efforts. Lead normative agenda engagement and foster collaboration for sustainable development solutions. Enhance strategic communication to promote UN system efforts and the 2030 Agenda. Coordinate country-level security as Designated Official. Promote staff learning and manage a matrixed dual reporting system. Advance UN common business operations for efficiency and coherence. Coordinate humanitarian assistance when required and integrate UNCT work with peacekeeping missions in conflict settings. Provide oversight to the Resident Coordinator's Office.

Work Experience

Over 15 years of international leadership experience is required, including at least five years in development, human rights, peace-building, or humanitarian work at the country level outside one's own country. Previous Resident Coordinator experience is mandatory; senior-level inter-agency coordination experience may substitute. Experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs and engaging high-level actors is desirable.

Skills

Leadership, coordination, strategic partnership building, advocacy, risk mitigation, inter-agency collaboration, communication, security management, staff development, financial oversight, normative agenda engagement, innovation facilitation.

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