Sustainable Development Officer, Regional Liaison, Europe and Central Asia
Organizational Context
The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) is a UN Secretariat office managing the resident coordinator system, overseen by the UNSDG Chair. It recalibrated in 2026 to support the 2030 Agenda and UN 2.0 principles. This role is within the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, performing liaison functions from New York.
Job Purpose
This role supports the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda and UN 2.0 initiatives by providing substantive analysis, briefings, and support to senior leadership within the UN Secretariat's Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO). The position facilitates intergovernmental processes and senior management engagement, acting as a key liaison between Headquarters and the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. It involves collecting and analyzing data on sustainable development trends, identifying regional patterns, and preparing inputs for high-level forums. The role also supports the Regional Office's work plan, Resident Coordinator Offices, and UN country teams, contributing to knowledge sharing and policy support to ensure optimal configuration of the RC system.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include preparing briefing notes, mission packs, and meeting readouts for senior leadership, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data on sustainable development trends, and identifying regional patterns using data visualization for evidence-informed planning. The role involves conducting horizon scanning for emerging risks and opportunities in the Europe and Central Asia region, monitoring intergovernmental and inter-agency processes, and providing support for senior leadership visits. Additionally, the position facilitates information flow between Headquarters and the Regional Office, supports the Regional Office's work plan, assists Resident Coordinator Offices and UN country teams, and contributes to knowledge management and policy support.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in sustainable development, public policy, or development cooperation is required. Experience with inter-agency/intergovernmental collaboration and initiating partnerships is necessary. Experience in the Europe and Central Asia region, integrating gender equality, UN system experience, and data analytics are desirable.
Skills
Professionalism in applying sustainable development concepts, conducting research and analysis, data interpretation, and meeting commitments. Teamwork skills, including collaboration, valuing others' input, and supporting group decisions. Strong communication abilities, including clear speaking and writing, active listening, and tailoring messages to the audience.