All Things Urban

UN-Habitat supports countries to implement the urban dimensions of the sustainable development agenda to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. We focus on four main domains of change: Reduced spatial inequality and poverty in communities across the urban-rural continuum; enhanced shared prosperity for cities and regions; strengthened climate action and improved urban environment; and effective urban crises prevention and response.

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-Habitat, is the agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all. 1.In its resolution 26/3, adopted at its twenty-sixth session, in May 2017, the Governing Council of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) requested the Executive Director to consult and work closely with the Committee of Permanent Representatives during the preparation of a results-oriented six-year strategic plan for the period 2020–2025. 2.In the Resolution adopted by the United Nations Habitat Assembly on 31 May 2019, Approved the strategic plan for the period 2020–2023, in particular its four mutually reinforcing domains of change, namely: (a) Reduced spatial inequality and poverty in communities across the urban-rural continuum; (b) Enhanced shared prosperity of cities and regions; (c) Strengthened climate action and improved urban environment; (d) Effective urban crisis prevention and response. 3.The Resolution emphasized the importance of developing a knowledge-based approach to urban and territorial development, including the production and dissemination of urban indicators, data platforms, territorial modelling and assessment tools, and methodologies for monitoring the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals at the local level. 4.The Strategic Plan aims to reposition UN-Habitat as a major global entity, a centre of excellence and innovation that (i) refocuses its niche as the thought leader and go-to agency setting the global discourse and agenda on sustainable urban development, (ii) drives political discussions, (iii) generates specialized and cutting-edge knowledge, (iv) shapes technical norms, principles and standards, and (v) acts as a multiplier in the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices in getting cities and human settlements right. 5.In UN-Habitat’s new structure, Division of External Relations, Strategy, Knowledge and Innovation includes the Knowledge and Innovation Branch which is composed of three functional units: i) Global Reports and Trends Unit; ii) Data and Analytics Unit, and; iii) Innovation Unit.

This position is located within the Knowledge and Innovation Branch. The incumbent will report to the Head of the Knowledge and Innovation Branch and is overall charged with the responsibility of supporting the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of programmes, operations and other activities in the different functional areas of the three units. He / She will work closely with unit leaders of the Branch, to provide substantive and coordination support as per the Strategic Plan 2020-2023 and the Work Programme 2020-2021. Specific Assignments A. Programme Development and Implementation: 1. Participates in the development, implementation and evaluation of programmes/projects, including providing technical and coordination support of integrated projects for the Agency to enhance quality and synergy, Establishing and managing flexible teams to provide inputs to larger scale proposals. 2. Researches, analyzes and presents information gathered from diverse sources. 3. Provide and facilitate forums for exchange of ideas and collaboration on project design within the agency to enhance quality and synergy. 4. Liaises between the Division of ERSKI and other areas of the Organization in supporting the development of project/programme partnerships with UN agencies and donors. 5. Supports the implementation of the knowledge management strategy of UN-Habitat in close collaboration with regional offices and thematic branches. B. Programme Support: 1. Prepares various written outputs and reports, e.g. draft background papers, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc. related to sustainable urbanization. 2. Provides substantive support to consultative and other meetings, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations, etc. 3. Participates in missions, including provision of guidance including preparation of briefings, talking points and other necessary programmatic documentation prior to missions and makes follow up as required. 4. Systematize and disseminate best practices and knowledge management functions of the Branch to make learning and sharing internal and external a key priority. 5. Performs other duties as required.

Competencies - Professionalism: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to particular sector, functional area or other specialized field. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. - 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. - 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. - Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently. Education Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in urban planning, law, economics, business administration, management, economics 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. Work Experience A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, programme supervision and development or related area. Experience in sustainable urban development in desirable The position will work closely in a newly established team i.e. the UN-Habitat Innovation Unit and will require building of new organizational structures, networks and processes. Have you ever worked in a similar environment? Please explain. Do you have experience in designing and implementing urban environment or urban planning initiatives Languages English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required; and ‘knowledge of French is a desirable. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.

This job is available for international candidates.