Operations Management Assistant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) aims to combat desertification and mitigate drought effects globally, particularly in Africa, through effective action and international cooperation for sustainable development. This role supports preparations for the 17th UNCCD Conference of the Parties (COP17) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, focusing on research, communication, logistics, science, and administration. The assignment offers a significant opportunity for a young professional to gain experience in event management and land sector initiatives within a UN agency.

Job Purpose

This assignment focuses on providing crucial support for the preparation and effective follow-up of the 17th UNCCD Conference of the Parties (COP17), hosted by Mongolia in August 2026. The UN Volunteer Operations Management Assistant will play a key role in coordinating various activities, including research, communication, logistics, science, and administration. The incumbent is expected to leverage their experience in planning, coordination, and management, particularly in organizing meetings and preparing summaries. A critical contribution will be the analytical review of information to identify priority matters and advise on options, ensuring the smooth progression of COP17 preparations and subsequent follow-up actions within the UNCCD framework.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Executive Secretary, the Operations Management Assistant will track the implementation of meeting decisions and monitor work plan progress, identifying and mitigating delays. Responsibilities include analytically reviewing information from various sources to identify urgent priorities and recommend solutions. The role involves leading cross-unit coordination and maintaining trackers for action points and support units to enhance management efficiency and ensure priorities are addressed. The incumbent will collect data and draft communications, talking points, and background notes for UN and external partners, including donors and member states. Additionally, the role provides support for COP17 preparation and coordination between internal and external stakeholders at technical, regional, and country levels, and performs other assigned duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible experience is required, preferably within the UN or other international organizations. Experience should focus on international relations, political affairs, planning, programme coordination, or public administration. Demonstrated ability to draft high-level documents, manage complex workflows, pay attention to detail, meet deadlines, and liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders is essential. Experience supporting senior officials or in front-office functions is highly desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include strong planning and organizing abilities to manage multiple tasks, and teamwork skills for effective collaboration. Technological awareness and client orientation are also important. The role requires excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to handle sensitive situations diplomatically. Proficiency in MS Office applications and database management is necessary. The candidate must be self-motivated, able to work with minimal supervision, and meet tight deadlines.

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