Special Assistant to Deputy Executive Director (Programme), Office of the Executive Director, New York, FTA, P-4

Organizational Context

The Special Assistant post is situated within the Office of the Executive Director (OED) at UNFPA, reporting to the Deputy Executive Director (Programme). UNFPA is the lead UN agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health, aiming to fulfill every young person's potential. The role supports the DED (Programme) in navigating programming and policy matters, contributing to the organization's strategic objectives and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Job Purpose

The Special Assistant provides crucial support to the Deputy Executive Director (Programme) within UNFPA's Office of the Executive Director. This role is instrumental in ensuring the effective and efficient handling of programming and policy issues, directly assisting the DED in developing and implementing strategy and policy guidance. By working collaboratively within the OED team, the Special Assistant contributes to various organizational functions and initiatives, ensuring alignment with UNFPA's mandate to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights globally and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Responsibilities

The Special Assistant ensures effective support to the Deputy Executive Director (Programme) by managing working arrangements, preparing briefing notes, presentations, and talking points for meetings and missions, and overseeing schedules. This role facilitates liaison between the DED (P) and relevant organizational units, including Programme Divisions and Regional Offices, and monitors action items for the DED's attention. Strategic and operational advice is provided on programming, performance monitoring, and technical issues. The Special Assistant supports the DED in managing critical demands, reviewing documents for the Executive Board and correspondence. They also assist the DED in inter-agency groups and external fora by preparing briefings and liaising with stakeholders. Collaboration with other Special Assistants ensures coordinated support for the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Directors, including secretariat functions for the UNFPA Executive Committee.

Work Experience

Requires 7 years of relevant national and international experience. Superior writing and editing skills are essential. Familiarity with UN and UNFPA policies and procedures is an asset. Knowledge of UN reform, UNDG agencies, computer applications, and UN development programmes is desirable.

Skills

Core competencies include integrity, commitment to UNFPA, cultural diversity, change embrace, results achievement, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, teamwork, and communication. Functional skills involve relationship building, planning, coordination, multitasking, innovation, knowledge management, and programming facilitation. Strong analytical, policy advice, writing, and communication skills are necessary, along with a commitment to human rights and ethical practices.

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