Director, Political Affairs, D2

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the single regional political-operational structure shared by the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and of Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO), in the Northern Africa Division. The Director reports directly to the Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Africa in DPPA-DPO.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Director will be responsible for the following:

- Direct and manage the work of the Northern Africa Division; formulate and implement the substantive work programme of the Division
- Oversee the management of activities undertaken by the Division, including the formulation and implementation of its annual workplan
- Contribute to the formulation of the departments overall strategies and policies
- Follow political, security and other developments in the countries of the Northern Africa region to provide early warning of tensions and potential conflicts
- Exercise overall management of timely provision of political analyses, briefing notes, background papers and talking points
- Provide experienced counsel and support to Special Representatives, Heads of Mission, Coordinators or Envoys of the Secretary-General
- Provide senior assistance, analysis, advice and recommendations on preventative diplomacy and peacemaking, as well as peacekeeping
- Coordinate and maintain regular contacts with Member States, regional and sub-regional organizations
- Coordinate and oversee the preparation of reports for presentation to the Security Council
- Ensure that the outputs produced by the Division maintain high-quality standards
- Undertake or oversee the programmatic/administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Division
- Oversee the recruitment of staff for the Division taking due account of geographical and gender balance
- Chair meetings, seminars, etc., on substantive-related issues; represent the Organization at relevant international, regional, inter-agency meetings

Competencies

- Professionalism: Knowledge of political and peacebuilding affairs in North Africa
- Planning and organizing: Develops clear goals consistent with agreed strategies
- Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments
- Leadership: Serves as a role model; empowers others to translate vision into results
- Judgement/decision making: Identifies key issues in complex situations

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in politics or international relations, law or international law, social sciences or another related area. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in diplomacy, international affairs, political affairs, peacebuilding or a related area is required. Experience in peace and security matters in Northern Africa is required. A minimum of three years of experience in Africa, preferably in Northern Africa, is required. Experience managing diverse teams at the senior level is required.

Languages

English is required. Either French or Arabic is required.

Job Opening ID: 269183
Deadline: March 7, 2026