Chief of Service, Economic Affairs
Organizational Context
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is part of the UN Secretariat, supervising 21 Arab countries. It provides a framework for policy harmonization, coordination, and knowledge sharing, aiming to advance just and inclusive societies and improve governance. The Director leads Cluster 6, overseeing its substantive and operational work.
Job Purpose
The Director of the Governance and Conflict Prevention Cluster is responsible for formulating and implementing the cluster's work program, directing its activities, and managing resources. This involves providing guidance on governance and conflict analysis, mitigation, and their effects. The role includes overseeing programmatic and administrative tasks, resource mobilization, budgeting, and performance evaluation. The Director advises senior management on strategic direction, technical cooperation, and stakeholder relations, focusing on countries in transition and emerging trends. They also oversee capacity-building initiatives and ensure timely, high-quality delivery of analytical outputs based on evidence-based data, while managing risks and coordinating reports for intergovernmental bodies.
Responsibilities
Formulate and implement the substantive work program for the Governance and Conflict Prevention Cluster. Direct the activities and manage resources of Cluster 6, providing guidance on governance, conflict analysis, mitigation, and their spillover effects. Oversee programmatic and administrative tasks, including resource mobilization, budget preparation, performance reporting, and staff evaluation. Ensure timely and high-quality delivery of program activities and analytical outputs using comprehensive, evidence-based data. Advise senior management on strategic direction, technical cooperation, and relationships with member states and partners, focusing on transitional countries, emerging trends, peacebuilding, and crisis management. Oversee technical cooperation, capacity-building, and change management programs to support member states. Identify strategies for program improvement, highlight risks, and propose mitigation measures. Coordinate and oversee the preparation of reports for intergovernmental bodies.
Work Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive international and regional experience in high-level research and analysis on development issues is required. This includes at least five years in conflict analysis and governance, directing research, and managing development programs. Strategic and managerial experience in complex development projects in conflict/post-conflict settings is also essential.
Skills
Professionalism, strong analytical and research skills, effective communication, planning and organizing, leadership, and strategic vision. Knowledge of socio-economic development and conflict-related issues, particularly in Arab States, is crucial. Ability to produce high-quality reports and manage complex projects.