Overview

The Senior Adviser assists the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in discharging overall responsibilities as Head of Mission (HoM), providing political and other advice and support on operational, managerial, and substantive issues. The role also provides political advice to the Force Commander and other senior management.

Tasks Summary

• Identify, analyze and monitor political, security and operational developments and emerging issues related to UNFICYP's mandate.
• Assess implications and recommend strategies, policies, and measures to address concerns and advance mandated objectives.
• Ensure timely and high-quality reporting to the SRSG and UN Headquarters.
• Draft and oversee the preparation of analytical reports, briefing notes, and cables.
• Prepare/review draft reports of the Secretary-General to the Security Council.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with government authorities, political and community leaders, civil society actors, and other partners.
• Consult and cooperate with partners to address political, security, and operational challenges.
• Liaise with the diplomatic community and support civil society and inter-communal efforts.
• Work with the Office of the Special Adviser on Cyprus to ensure synergies and a coordinated approach.
• Assist the SRSG/HoM in ensuring the integrated and coherent functioning of the Mission.
• Supervise the Civil Affairs Section, Public Information Office, Legal Officer, and Gender Affairs Officer.
• Facilitate the translation of policy intent into viable tasks and ensure effective implementation.
• Formulate and manage the implementation of the Mission's programme of work.
• Ensure an integrated approach to the results-based budgeting process.
• Supervise and evaluate substantive staff and participate in staff selection.

Experience Requirements

• A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, diplomacy, conflict resolution, civil affairs or related field is required.
• Extensive outreach experience to political interlocutors, civil society, government officials and the diplomatic community is required.
• Experience in facilitation, analysis, advice and drafting/reporting is required.
• At least three years of professional experience in a conflict or post-conflict setting is required.
• Proven track record of leadership, political acumen, coordination and management in multicultural settings, including coordination and oversight of interdisciplinary teams is required.
• Experience working in a UN peace-keeping operation is desirable.

Qualification Requirements

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, social science, economics, law, public administration, or a related field. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.