JOB OPENING : UNITED NATIONS SPECIAL ASSISTANT, POLITICAL AFFAIRS TO THE AFRICAN UNION
Apply for the United Nations (UN) Special Assistant , Political Affairs to the African Union (AU) Job Opening
Applications close on 18 October 2023
Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is based in Addis Ababa. The Special Assistant will report directly to the
Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG)Responsibilities
Within limits of delegated authority, and under the guidance of the Head of Office, the
Special Assistant will support the Head of Office in the execution of her duties:
- Coordination and Facilitation; Provide substantive and practical support to the SRSG in implementing the Missions Mandate; Keep the SRSG informed on all matters requiring her personal attention, handled, and ensure appropriate follow-up, as directed; Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with the office components, the African Union and the broader UN family, donors and other national and international partners on coordination and policy matters;
- Organize and manage the SRSG meetings and Mission events, prepare written summaries and conduct follow-up activities as appropriate;
- Coordinate/draft correspondence for the SRSG’s signature.
- Political Analysis, Advice and Reporting- identify, analyze and monitor political developments and emerging issues with respect to the implementation of the Mission’s mandate:
- Asses implications and make recommendations on possible policies , strategies and other measures to address issues of concern and to advance mandated objectives:
- Monitor, evaluate and report on implementation: coordinate/draft summary and analytical reports including, but not limited to, situation reports, briefing notes, notes to file, code cables and input for reports of the Secretary- General to the Security Council. Management
- Assist in formulating and managing the implementation of the Office’s programme of work, including support to planning and budgetary processes: Supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff:
- Participate in the selection of new staff.
Competencies
- Professionalism:
In-depth understanding of, and an ability to evaluate international political
situations in Africa; thorough knowledge of the practices and procedures of the United
Nations; knowledge of the African Union peace and security architecture; is conscientious
and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows
persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; commitment to implementing
the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women
and men in all aspects of peace operations
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Judgment/Decision-making
Identifies the key issues in a complex situation and comes to the
heart of the problem quickly; gathers relevant information before making a decision;
considers positive and negative impacts of decisions prior to making them; takes decisions
with an eye to the impact on others and on the Organization; proposes a course of action or
makes a recommendation based on all available information; checks assumptions against
facts; determines that the actions proposed will satisfy the expressed and underlying needs for
the decision; and, makes tough decisions when necessary
5. Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in social science, economics, law, public administration, international relations or a related field is required. A first level university degree with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, diplomacy, conflict resolution, humanitarian or related field is required.
Extensive experience in political outreach,
facilitation, analysis, advice and reporting is required. Experience working in a United Nations common system field operation (inclusive of peace
keeping, political missions and UN agencies, funds and programmes) ; or similar international
organizations or non-governmental organizations – in a conflict or post conflict setting is
required.
Previous experience working in the office of a senior public official and/or as a Special
Assistant (or similar) to a senior public official is desirable.
Languages
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of French or other UN
language is highly desirable.
Assessment
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise, which may be followed by competency-based interview or maybe either of one.
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