Senior Programme Support Officer (Maritime Operational Analysis)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) works to combat drug trafficking, transnational organized crime, corruption, and terrorism, while promoting criminal justice and crime prevention. The Regional Office for South Asia, based in New Delhi, covers six countries. This role is within the Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) focusing on the Indian Ocean East region, aiming to provide technical assistance and strengthen maritime security cooperation.

Job Purpose

The Senior Programme Support Officer (Maritime Operational Analysis) will provide critical technical expertise to the UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) in New Delhi. The role involves conducting in-depth operational analyses of maritime criminal trends, assessing emerging threats, and translating findings into actionable recommendations for policy and programming. The incumbent will serve as a key liaison with Indian maritime law enforcement and government bodies, driving the development and implementation of GMCP activities, and designing capacity-building initiatives to enhance maritime law enforcement and criminal justice capabilities in India.

Responsibilities

Lead comprehensive operational analyses on maritime criminal trends affecting India and the Eastern Indian Ocean, including drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, trafficking in persons, environmental, and fisheries crimes. Monitor and assess emerging maritime security threats, translating analytical findings into strategic, evidence-based recommendations for programming and policy engagement. Serve as the principal technical focal point for engagement with Indian maritime law enforcement, criminal justice institutions, and relevant ministries to strengthen cooperation with UNODC GMCP. Drive the development and implementation of GMCP activities in India, ensuring alignment with national priorities and regional maritime security frameworks. Design and lead capacity-building initiatives, including workshops, consultations, maritime domain awareness initiatives, and technical dialogues. Develop high-quality analytical and policy products, such as strategic assessments, briefing notes, concept notes, and reports. Identify technical assistance needs and develop structured responses to strengthen maritime law enforcement and criminal justice capacities. Coordinate closely with GMCP teams in the Indian Ocean East region and represent the programme at relevant national and regional maritime security meetings.

Work Experience

Requires at least seven years of experience in conducting research and producing analytical outputs on maritime affairs, particularly maritime security and law enforcement. Experience with various operational analysis methods (qualitative, quantitative, mixed) is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, internet, and web-based data management software is required. Experience in the South Asian region and familiarity with UNODC/GMCP are desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, communication, planning, organization, professionalism, self-management, and teamwork. Expertise in development programmes, security, and protection is also required. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, tact in intercultural communication, excellent writing abilities, and the capacity to build trust across cultural lines are essential.

Explore related opportunities