Resident Coordinator (Zambia)
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator system, established by General Assembly resolution 72/279, coordinates UN development system entities at the country level. The Resident Coordinator (RC) is the highest-ranking UN representative, leading country teams to ensure accountability for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and coordinate support for the 2030 Agenda. The RC reports to the Secretary-General and the host government.
Job Purpose
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking UN representative at the country level, leading UN country teams to implement the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and coordinate UN support for the 2030 Agenda. This role involves representing the UN at the highest levels, fostering engagement with diverse stakeholders, advocating for SDGs, and ensuring system-wide accountability. The RC catalyzes agency efforts, promotes UN values, builds strategic partnerships, and facilitates access to resources for sustainable development. They also oversee security coordination when appointed as Designated Official and manage the Resident Coordinator's Office, ensuring effective UN operations and coherence.
Responsibilities
Represent the UN at the highest levels, engaging with government, civil society, and partners to advance the 2030 Agenda and SDGs. Lead UN country teams in developing, monitoring, and implementing the UN Cooperation Framework. Coordinate UN system-wide support, identifying and mitigating risks to SDG achievement. 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. Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing to enhance UN contributions. Lead strategic communication to promote the 2030 Agenda. Coordinate country-level security when designated. Promote staff learning and PSEA strategies. Manage matrixed reporting systems and advance common UN business operations. Coordinate humanitarian assistance and integrate UN work in conflict/post-conflict settings. Provide oversight to the Resident Coordinator's Office.
Work Experience
A minimum of 15 years of substantive international leadership experience is required, including five years in development, human rights, rule of law, peace-building, or humanitarian work at the country level outside one's own country. Previous RC experience, experience as a Designated Official for Security, or in security decision-making is desirable.
Skills
Leadership, coordination, representation, partnership building, strategic planning, advocacy, risk management, security coordination, communication, diplomacy, analysis, resource mobilization, knowledge management, innovation facilitation, staff development, PSEA strategy implementation.