INTER-REGIONAL ADVISER ON LOCALIZATION OF THE SDGs,

Organizational Context

The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), specifically the Division for Public Institutions and Digital Government (DPIDG), supports countries in advancing effective institutions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting digital transformation. This role, as an Inter-Regional Adviser (IRA), provides high-level technical expertise and knowledge transfer to governments on policy and development strategies, operating within the framework of DESA's capacity development initiatives.

Job Purpose

The Inter-Regional Adviser (IRA) on Localization of the SDGs provides crucial policy advice and technical expertise to governments in developing countries, focusing on integrating the local dimension of the SDGs into national strategies and strengthening multi-level governance. The role supports the design, implementation, and monitoring of SDG-related policies and programs at national and local levels, fostering capacity development through knowledge sharing and peer learning. By promoting innovative approaches to public service delivery and advising on institutional arrangements for policy coherence, the IRA contributes to effective SDG implementation and achievement of internationally agreed development goals, while also facilitating regional knowledge exchange and resource mobilization.

Responsibilities

Provide policy advice to governments on strengthening multi-level governance for SDG implementation, ensuring effective distribution of responsibilities across government levels. Support the integration of the local dimension of SDGs into national development strategies and public policies, enhancing coordination between central and subnational authorities. Strengthen the capacity of local and regional authorities in designing, implementing, and monitoring SDG-related policies and programs through capacity development and knowledge sharing. Advise on institutional arrangements for policy coherence and promote innovative approaches to local public service delivery, including digital and participatory mechanisms. Develop tools and frameworks for tracking SDG localization progress and facilitate regional knowledge exchange on best practices. Contribute to the design of national policies and strategies, participate in capacity development programs, and ensure gender mainstreaming in all actions. Engage in resource mobilization, develop training materials, conduct surveys, and build partnerships with stakeholders.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in SDG localization within the UN development system or related operational activities is required. This includes at least five years in governance and public institutions focusing on local governance and SDG implementation, and four years of advisory experience in developing countries. Experience in international technical cooperation, capacity development, and fund mobilization is also required. Experience in developing policy guidance on SDG localization is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, technical competence in governance and SDG localization, communication (written and verbal), teamwork, knowledge of multi-level governance, decentralization, policy coherence, and innovative approaches in local governance.

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