Organizational Setting and Reporting

The Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) oversees the global United Nations security management system (UNSMS), providing leadership, operational support, and oversight. UNDSS is a global leader in security risk management principles, facilitating the safe and efficient delivery of UN programs and activities, even in complex and challenging environments, thereby maximizing resources. The Department’s mission is to support UN system program activities through reliable security leadership and solutions.

The position is located within the Emergency Response Unit (ERU) at UNDSS in New York. The incumbent reports to the Head of ERU. The Programme Management Officer will assist in establishing and managing UNDSS’s standing surge capacity, composed of experienced security staff ready to deploy quickly in special situations. The role may require travel to field locations for emergency response support. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute directly to peace and security, human rights, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For more information on UNDSS and its impact, visit: UNDSS.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Head of the Emergency Response Unit, the Programme Management Officer will:

• Develop, implement, and evaluate UNDSS surge capacity mechanisms to ensure predictable additional capacity for responding to new or evolving challenges. Monitor and analyze program development and implementation, address issues, and ensure follow-up actions.
• Develop and manage a surge deployment strategy to facilitate staff deployment during special situations based on UNDSS needs assessments.
• Conduct consulting assignments, including planning and facilitating workshops, developing action plans, and managing change related to surge deployments.
• Perform research, analysis, and workforce planning on surge capacity, presenting information from diverse sources.
• Coordinate policy development, review and analyze issues and trends, and prepare evaluations and research activities related to surge capacity and emergency response.
• Design and execute survey initiatives related to surge capacity, analyze responses, and prepare conclusions.
• Organize and prepare written outputs such as background papers, reports, and publications.
• Provide substantive support for meetings and conferences, including agenda preparation, participant identification, and document preparation.
• Initiate and coordinate outreach activities with the Department of Operational Support, advocating for security considerations in crises.
• Lead or participate in field missions for rapid emergency response.
• Coordinate budget-related activities and prepare related documents.
• Perform other duties as required.

Competencies

• Professionalism: Expertise in project management, surge/emergency response, and relevant fields. Ability to identify and resolve issues, conduct data collection, and perform independent research and analysis. Commitment to high professional and ethical standards, including incorporating gender perspectives.
• Teamwork: Effective collaboration with colleagues, valuing others’ ideas and expertise, and placing team goals above personal agendas. Shared responsibility for team achievements.
• Planning and Organizing: Clear goal-setting, prioritization, resource allocation, and efficient time management. Risk foresight and contingency planning.
• Client Orientation: Understanding client needs, maintaining productive partnerships, and delivering timely products or services.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, international relations, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with two additional years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Work Experience

• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management or related areas.
• At least two years of experience within the UN Common System or similar international organization, including one year in a conflict, post-conflict, or natural disaster setting.
• Experience establishing and maintaining relationships within the UN Common System or similar organizations.
• Programmatic support experience in field operations of international organizations.
• Desirable: Experience managing partnerships and contributing to crisis or emergency response.

Languages

Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. Knowledge of French and other official UN languages is desirable.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview.

Special Notice

• Appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to renewal based on post or funding availability and budgetary approval.
• Applicants from under-represented Member States are strongly encouraged to apply.
• The UN Secretariat aims for 50/50 gender balance; female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Integrity and ethical standards are crucial.
• Candidates recruited through the young professionals program must serve two years in their initial assignment before applying for this position.
• Candidates who apply but are not selected may be placed on a roster for similar roles.
• Compliance with the Staff Selection System and the review body process is required.
• Staff members must be mobile and are expected to periodically change functions according to established rules.

United Nations Considerations

• The UN aims for the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.
• Candidates will not be considered if involved in human rights violations, sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, or other serious crimes.
• The UN ensures equal participation of men and women and places no restrictions on eligibility.
• A non-smoking environment is maintained.
• Reasonable accommodation for disabilities can be requested.
• Staff members are subject to the Secretary-General’s authority and may be assigned to any UN activity or office.

For detailed staff regulations and rules, visit: UN HR Handbook.

No Fee

The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.