Special Assistant to Director – Programme Division (P3)

About the role

The Special Assistant supports the Director of the Programme Division in Nairobi, providing operational, planning, managerial, technical and coordination assistance. The role acts as a key interface with all units inside and outside the Division, ensuring smooth workflow and effective collaboration.

Key responsibilities

• Back‑stop planning and management functions, analyse documents and draft statements, briefing notes and presentations.
• Maintain communication with branches, divisions, partners and the UN system, and coordinate inputs to annual reports.
• Prepare substantive analyses, literature reviews and position papers for the Director’s review.
• Monitor implementation of tasks assigned by the Director and support the Office Management Plan.
• Coordinate the Director’s participation in corporate initiatives and schedule divisional meetings, recording decisions and follow‑up actions.
• Facilitate coordination with Regional Offices and ensure information sharing within the Division.
• Participate in task forces, working groups and inter‑divisional coordination meetings.
• Undertake any other duties as required by the Director.

Required profile

• Advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public policy, international affairs, global health or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in civil service, international affairs, global health or a comparable area, preferably within the UN system.
• Fluency in English; additional UN language (French or Spanish) is desirable.

What we offer

• An attractive remuneration package including a competitive net salary, health insurance and other benefits.
• A work environment that promotes gender equality, diversity, integrity and a healthy work‑life balance.