Chief, Regional Coordination and Intergovernmental Affairs
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) in New York, part of the UN Secretariat, manages the Resident Coordinator (RC) system. This role sits within the Strategic Partnerships and Engagement Division, reporting to the Director. The Chief provides strategic leadership to the Intergovernmental and Regional Liaison Section, interfacing with senior UN officials and regional teams to support the 2030 Agenda and the UN 2.0 transformation.
Job Purpose
This role is responsible for leading intergovernmental engagement and regional liaison within the UN Development Coordination Office (UNDCO). The Chief will develop and implement strategies for engaging Member States to support the RC system and UNDCO's mandate. This includes coordinating efforts with various UN entities, monitoring intergovernmental deliberations, and preparing high-quality analysis and briefings for senior management. The position also involves supporting the UN's regional architecture, contributing to key reports, and managing a team of Regional Liaison Officers. The ultimate goal is to ensure effective coordination and support for the UN development system's mandate and the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda.
Responsibilities
The Chief Intergovernmental Affairs will lead the development, implementation, and review of Member State engagement strategies to support the RC system and UNDCO's mandate. This involves coordinating engagement with DCO sections, Regional Directors, and Resident Coordinators, and strengthening systems for monitoring and analyzing intergovernmental deliberations in bodies like the General Assembly and ECOSOC. The role includes developing systems to track Member State priorities and mandates, overseeing the preparation of analysis and briefings for senior management, and collaborating with UN Secretariat officials. Additionally, the Chief will lead support for the UN development system's regional architecture, coordinate internal working groups, prepare inputs for key reports such as the SG's report on QCPR, and support the Deputy Secretary-General's role in Regional Collaborative Platforms. The position also involves managing Regional Liaison Officers and supporting regional initiatives.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressive experience is required in Member State liaison, intergovernmental engagement, and managing such initiatives, including with regional organizations. Experience advising senior officials in intergovernmental forums and field experience within the RC system or UN development entities is also required. Knowledge of the UN development coordination architecture, particularly at the regional level and recent reforms, is essential. Strong communication, reporting, and negotiation skills are necessary. Experience at a development cooperation organization headquarters and team leadership are desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Communication, Client Orientation, Leadership, Judgment/Decision-Making, Intergovernmental Affairs, Research and Analysis, Data Collection, Strategic Planning, Team Management, Negotiation, Reporting.