Special Assistant, Political Affairs at Office Of The Special Envoy Of The Secretary-General On The Great Lakes Region

This position is in the Office of the Special Envoy of The Secretary-General for the Great Lakes in Nairobi and the selected candidate will report directly to the Special Envoy.

This is a Fixed Term Job Opening and the selected candidate will serve for an initial period of one year, with a possibility of further extension.

Nairobi is classified as a "B" hardship duty station and a family duty station.

Responsibilities

Within limits of delegated authority and under the direct supervision of the Special Envoy – O/SESG-GL Nairobi, the Special Assistant will be responsible for performing the following
duties:-

• Providing specialized advice and support to the Special Envoy in carrying out his duties, including identifying, analyzing and monitoring regional developments and emerging issues
• with respect to the implementation of the Mission's mandate,
• Bringing to the attention of the Special Envoy all matters requiring his personal attention, makes recommendations on how those matters might be handled and ensures appropriate
• follow-up as directed,
• As requested, handling incoming and outgoing correspondence of the Special Envoy and coordinates travels and official engagements in close consultation with Mission focal points,
• Liaising and maintaining close working relationships with officials of State Institutions, Political Parties, Civil Society Organizations and Religious Actors,
• Preparing Talking Points, Meeting Notes and draft reports on the Special Envoy's engagements, in close coordination and consultation with relevant Focal Points,
• Coordinating, as required actions related to the transition towards the United Nations Agency led commitment, depending on the mission's mandate and the situation in the country
• concerned. This includes liaising with Bilateral Donors and other International Organizations, with a view of realizing greater synergy and coordination, specifically regarding post-mission
• activities in the country,
• Performing other related duties as required.

Competencies

• PROFESSIONALISM: Shows ability to complete in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to political problems in specific areas and/or countries. Shows
• ability to relate to various issues and perspectives to political, social, economic and humanitarian programmes in affected countries and areas. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
• PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
• TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; Solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; Places team agenda before personal agenda; Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Education

Advanced university degree (Masters degree or equivalent) in Political Science, international relations or Development or a related field. A first- level university degree with a combination of two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

• A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, diplomacy, conflict resolution, or related field.
• Experience working in political, development and humanitarian issues is required.
• Experience working in a United Nations common system field operation (inclusive of peacekeeping, political missions and UN agencies, funds, and programmes) - or similar international organization or non-governmental organization - in a conflict or post-conflict setting is desired.
• Previous experience working in the office of a senior public official as a Special Assistant (or similar) to a senior public official is required.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in English and French is required (oral and written).

Assessment

The assessment of qualified candidates could include an evaluation exercise.

Special Notice

This "Recruit from Roster" job opening is only open to roster applicants who are already placed on pre-approved rosters, following a review by a United Nations Central Review Body. Only roster applicants who were placed on rosters with similar functions at the same level are considered to be eligible candidates. Eligible applicants receive an email inviting them to apply. Rostered applicants are encouraged to apply only if they are interested and available to take up the position at the duty station/s specified in the Job Opening. Applying to this job opening carries an expectation to accept the offer, if selected.