Chief of IRENA Office in New York and Permanent Observer to the UN, P-5

at  International Renewable Energy Agency IRENA

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in International Relations, Political Science, Law, Public Administration, Communication or a related field, is required. A first-level university degree in combination with additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of advanced university degree
Experience: A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience at national and international levels in advisory and managerial positions. Knowledge of sustainable development, climate change and renewable energy issues at the international level as well as extensive work in an intergovernmental setting is required. Diplomatic experience and a proven knowledge of the United Nations system, including processes and working methods, are an asset.
Languages: Excellent command of written and spoken English is essential. Fluency in other languages an asset. Good drafting skills are an asset.
Other: Working knowledge of MS Office with emphasis on Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and on the application of data base systems.
Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform ORC by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of three professional references who will be contacted if their application is shortlisted.
Applications from qualified women, especially from nationals of developing countries, are highly encouraged.
Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.
[1] IRENA provides similar ICSC benefits and entitlements, including rental subsidy, education grant (for school aged children), annual leave, health insurance, provident fund, etc. as would be applicable.
[2] The post adjustment is a variable component that is adjusted periodically to reflect changes in the cost of living in a duty station. Post adjustment multiplier for Abu Dhabi duty station is currently 73.4%, determined by the International Civil Service Commission and subject to change without prior notice.

Under the overall guidance of the Director-General and the supervision of the Chief of Staff, the Chief of IRENA Office in New York and Permanent Observer to the UN is responsible for the following:

• Maintain regular communication and provide detailed briefings and reports to the Director-General and all relevant IRENA staff to inform on significant developments within the UN that impact IRENA’s mission and interests and obtain guidance on the activities of the Permanent Observer Office;
• Represent IRENA and participate in meetings of relevant UN bodies and committees, and at other meetings held under the auspices of the UN such as the High-Level Dialogue on Energy;
• Lead and manage the administration of IRENA Permanent Observer Office by providing clear direction to its staff;
• Lead the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the programme of work and budget for the Permanent Observer Office.
• Establish communication channels and strengthen engagement with Permanent Missions of UN Member States, the UN Secretariat and other relevant UN organizations;
• Closely coordinate with IRENA programmatic divisions to identify and act on opportunities for substantive participation in UN bodies and committees;
• Promote implementation of IRENA’s work programme and strategic directions to ensure that IRENA’s contributions to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is part of relevant processes and resolutions;
• Assist in the development and execution of IRENA’s overall strategy for engagement and collaboration with UN New York based agencies and related entities or initiatives.;
• Follow up and closely monitor international developments related to energy and climate change and identify strategic areas for IRENA’s engagement, partnership, and/or value-added;
• Promote active engagement with US-based private sector and financial institutions to promote IRENA work and focus areas;
• Follow on all IRENA’s active involvement with US-based organizations and entities;
• Reach-out strategy for UN Member States that are not IRENA Members to ratify or accede to the Statute;
• Provide support to the Director-General and IRENA staff during missions to New York and the USA;
• Organize outreach events, in particular during the opening week of the UN General Assembly and the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), and on other relevant occasions;
• Proactively disseminate information about key IRENA activities and publications among Permanent Missions, the UN Secretariat and other relevant stakeholders;
• Develop a strategy for engagement with UN entities and other regional and relevant entities, showcasing IRENA’s work and products with relevant partners in New York;
• Develop a network of journalists covering sustainable development and energy.

1 IRENA provides similar ICSC benefits and entitlements, including dependency allowances, rental subsidy, education grant (for school aged children), annual and sick leave, health insurance, Provident Fund participation, etc. as would be applicable.