Programme Officer, Partnerships

Organizational Context

The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is a centre of excellence for UN Peace operations, focused on conflict prevention, management, and sustaining peace. This role is within the Office for the Peacekeeping Strategic Partnership (OPSP) at UN Headquarters in New York, supporting the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations.

Job Purpose

This Programme Officer role supports the Office for the Peacekeeping Strategic Partnership (OPSP) within the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The purpose is to develop, implement, and evaluate programmes and projects related to UN Peace operations. This involves providing strategic, political, operational, and management advice, developing integrated strategies, and conducting analysis and planning. The role also entails coordinating policy development, conducting research, preparing reports, and backstopping meetings and conferences. A key aspect is supporting OPSP in identifying and addressing systemic gaps in peacekeeping operations by assessing the performance of military and police components, and coordinating budget-related activities.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programmes and projects, monitoring their progress, and initiating corrective actions. The role involves conducting consulting assignments, facilitating workshops, and assisting clients in change management. Researching, analyzing, and presenting information from diverse sources is crucial, as is coordinating policy development and conducting evaluations. The officer will generate survey initiatives, design data collection tools, and analyze responses. Preparing written outputs such as background papers and reports, and providing substantive backstopping for meetings and conferences are also key duties. Additionally, the role involves coordinating outreach activities, conducting training, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders, including military and police components, to assess performance and identify systemic gaps. Budget coordination and preparation of related documents are also required.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of experience is required in project or programme management, administration, or a related area. This includes seven years of military experience at the rank of Major with operational or strategic staff experience. Experience in UN Peacekeeping Operations or similar settings, at UN Headquarters or a similar international organization, and in evaluating the performance of military units in peacekeeping operations is also required.

Skills

Professionalism, communication, and teamwork are essential. Specific skills include knowledge of relevant theories and concepts, analytical and evaluative skills for research, data collection, and problem-solving. The ability to manage conflicting priorities, work independently, and maintain composure under stress is important. Strong communication skills for effective speaking and writing, active listening, and tailoring messages to audiences are required. Teamwork involves collaboration, valuing others' input, and supporting group decisions.

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