(Program and Staff Assistant) Office of the UNSG’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA)

In September 2009, the UN Secretary General designated H.R.H. Princess Máxima of the Netherlands as his Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA). Princess Máxima is also Honorary Patron of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion. In both these capacities, Princess Máxima raises awareness and advocates specific policies, investments and actions with governments, legislators, regulators and international institutions for purposes of promoting inclusive finance for development. She undertakes country visits to promote financial inclusion, cross-sector coordination and concrete actions in specific contexts, all with a view to reducing poverty, equalizing opportunity and accelerating growth. She also engages in global fora including the G20 and UN to raise awareness, partnership and investment. A small office supports Princess Máxima’s work as UNSGSA and works in close collaboration with the Princess’ Secretariat in The Hague. The office is housed at UNCDF in New York City.

Duties and Responsibilities

Assignment and Deliverables: This part-time consultant will provide will provide staff and program assistance to the Office of the UNSGA. The position is anticipated to be a 50% position and a full member of the UNSGSA team. The assistant will report to the UNSGSA Policy Advisor. The consultant will begin as soon as possible, and be responsible for, among other activities: Overall support to ensure effective Office operations and support to the UNSGSA, including maintenance of Office calendar, making and scheduling appointments and meetings, timely preparation of correspondence. This includes maintenance and use of a contact database, and support for major outreach initiatives such as distribution of the annual report. It also includes close coordination with the Secretariat to the Princess in the Hague. Contribution to organizing events and activities of the UNSGSA, including scheduling, invitations, logistics, organization of events, and printing/compiling of briefing books for the USGSA. This may also extend to support to the Policy Advisor in organizing a side-event during the opening of the UN General Assembly or other special activities. Support for Office travel, including preparing itineraries and travel options, arranging meetings, expense reporting. Providing administrative support for the Office finances and UN procedures, including entry of basic purchase orders and vendor information, review of charges, purchasing, etc. (in collaboration with UNCDF finance and contract officers as well as UNSGSA staff). Organizing and maintaining Office electronic library of key documents, including correspondence log and key reference materials. Time, Compensation and Location of Work: This project envisages 50% time, with some flexibility around busy periods and urgent needs. A willingness to monitor emails and calls when not in the office is key. The precise working arrangement will be negotiated. The consultant will be requested to conduct this work from the Office of the UNSGSA at UNCDF. Telephone and other communications equipment will be provided. Travel is not anticipated. Compensation will be based on experience.

Competencies

The consultant must be a top-notch assistant, experienced in functioning at the highest diplomatic levels. S/he must be familiar with UN and diplomatic protocol around events, meetings and correspondence, and be able to inform the Office of the UNSGSA proactively on these issues as they relate to letters, meetings, events etc. Familiarity with databases and accounting is asset. Core and Functional Competencies: Highly adept use of multiple media –computers, smart phones, databases, etc. a must. Exhibit sharp attention to details and ability to keep track of multiple issues. Strong written and spoken English is essential. Fluency in French is a plus, as is Spanish or other UN languages Knowledge of UN administrative procedures – this would be a huge advantage but may not be essential if a demonstrated fast learner. have a can do, whatever it takes to get it done attitude, comfortably with a certain fluidity and a fast-pace. Convey a sense of humor, and ability not to be flustered and to find solutions across cultures.

Required Skills and Experience

Education: The consultant must have a Bachelor of Arts in a field relevant to the vacancy. Experience: Minimum 5 years work experience, preferably in an international context. Language: Fluency in written and spoken English. Fluency in French is a plus, as is Spanish or other UN languages.

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UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

(Program and Staff Assistant) Office of the UNSG’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA)