UNEP Hiring Chief of Staff

This job opening for Chief of Staff at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Nairobi, Kenya, is a senior-level opportunity for professionals with a strong background in strategic advisory, leadership, coordination, and policy-making within international organizations. Below is an overview to help you assess and prepare for this role:

Key Responsibilities:

1. Management of the Executive Office:
   • Direct and oversee the work of the Executive Office, including managing staff and coordinating substantive support for the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director.
   • Support senior management teams and oversee recruitment of senior UNEP staff.
2. Strategic Advisory:
   • Provide planning and policy advice to help the Executive Director fulfill political and managerial objectives.
   • Oversee coordination between UNEP’s divisions, regional/country offices, and related agreements.
3. Security Leadership:
   • Represent the Executive Director on security-related matters and ensure internal safety systems are effectively managed.
4. Stakeholder Liaison:
   • Maintain proactive engagement with diplomatic missions, international organizations, and other stakeholders.
   • Oversee institutional product development and quality assurance for communication outputs, reports, and speeches.
5. Collaboration and Budgeting:
   • Ensure strategic alignment between budgets, operational plans, and human resource needs in collaboration with the Corporate Services Division.
   • Manage audit, legal, and evaluation matters requiring the Executive Director’s attention.
6. Representation and Protocol:
   • Represent the Executive Director in their absence and advise on UN protocol during official visits.
7. Organizational Culture:
   • Promote teamwork, transparency, and a positive work environment across UNEP.
8. Data-Driven Planning:
   • Guide team efforts in data analysis for informed decision-making and reporting.
9. Other Duties:
   • Perform additional tasks as required to support UNEP’s objectives.

Competencies Required:

• Professionalism: Strong understanding of UN mandates, policies, and political contexts; excellent analytical and diplomatic skills.
• Communication: Ability to articulate messages clearly to various audiences, foster two-way communication, and maintain transparency.
• Planning and Organizing: Proven capacity to set goals, prioritize effectively, and anticipate risks.
• Leadership: A proactive leader capable of inspiring others and driving organizational change.
• Managing Performance: Skilled in delegating tasks, monitoring progress, and providing constructive feedback.

Qualifications:

• Education: A strong academic background relevant to the responsibilities of this role (specific fields of study not mentioned).
• Experience: Demonstrated experience in strategic coordination, policy development, stakeholder engagement, and leadership at senior levels.
• Languages: Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of other UN languages is advantageous.

Application Insights:

• The deadline is January 23, 2025. It’s important to tailor your application to highlight leadership, policy-making expertise, and experience with high-level coordination.
• Emphasize your ability to work in international, multicultural settings and your understanding of UNEP’s mission.

Apply