Within delegated authority, the Special Assistant, Political Affairs will be responsible for the following duties: ? Supports the SRSG in the implementation of the Mission’s mandate as given by the Security Council and other requisite Mission activities. ? Brings to the attention of the SRSG matters requiring his/her personal attention, assists in formulating options/strategies to handle matters at hand, and ensures appropriate follow-up, as directed. ? Substantively handles incoming correspondence and drafts outgoing correspondence of the SRSG. ? Contributes to the drafting/clearing of code cables, reports of the Secretary-General to the Security Council and other mission-wide or thematic reports. ? Prepares talking points, speeches, and notes from meetings and other engagements of the SRSG, including organizing engagements where required.. ? Maintains close working relationships with members of the Senior Leadership Team, Head of sections, as well as with government and traditional authorities, political actors, civil society organizations, religious actors and the UN Country Team. Particularly, supports the SRSG in the overall liaison with the UNCT. ? Acts as Focal point for administrative/ budget issues pertaining to the SRSG’s Front office. ? Liaises as required with bilateral partners, donors and international organizations, with a view to generating greater synergy in mandate implementation, support of peace agreement implementation and initiatives. ? Performs other duties, as assigned.

Requirements:

Education

An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Political Science, Management or Development or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Job – Specific Qualification

Relevant training in the areas of planning, facilitation and/or coordination is desirable

Work Experience

A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible work experience in political affairs, diplomacy, conflict resolution or related area is required. Extensive experience in political and public outreach, strategic planning, facilitation, and reporting 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 nongovernmental organization-in a conflict or post-conflict setting for a minimum of three years is required. Experience working in the office of a senior public official or as a special assistant to a senior UN official is required. Experience in providing analytical advice on political developments and mandate implementation is required. Experience working on conflict-related issues in the Horn of Africa is required. Experience working with the African Union and Integrated Operational Teams at United Nations Headquarters is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.