Job Opening
Job Opening ID: 227468
Job Network : Political, Peace and Humanitarian
Job Family : Political Affairs
Category and Level : Professional and Higher Categories, P-3
Duty Station : BOGOTA
Department/Office : United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia
Date Posted : Feb 3, 2024
Deadline : Feb 17, 2024

Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the Office of the Chief of Staff (OCOS) of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) in Bogota. The Liaison Officer will report directly to the Chief of Staff.
Responsibilities
Within limits of delegated authority, the Liaison Officer will be responsible for, but not limited to, the performance of the following duties:

• Prepares briefing notes, speeches and talking points for the Chief of Staff (COS) related to the mission’s mandate. Develops and maintains relations with UN Country Team colleagues, Government representatives, regional Intergovernmental organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations, law enforcement actors, academic and research institutions for discussions to reach consensus and make decisions; prepares trend analysis monthly and sitrep as requested; supports main stakeholders programming and institutional liaison.
• Identifies the scope of projects/matters, considers methodologies, and participates in developing guidelines, terms of reference, operational plans and time frames. Assists in planning, coordinating, and supporting programmes, projects and activities requiring mission involvement and participation. As required, represents OCOS at round tables, seminars, and conferences.
• Participates fully in assigned activities related to the work of the OCOS, i.e., engaging with stakeholders and multilateral organizations on crisis management, conflict prevention and mediation.
• Supports the COS in the coordination of mission-wide inputs for the reports to the Secretary General and other sensitive and confidential communication to UNHQ. Provides assistance and support to other substantive sections of the mission to have a consensual approach to the mission environment, mandate and operations among Missions actors, relevant national and international stakeholders.
• Provides substantive and practical support to the COS in the implementation of the mission’s mandate; keeps the COS informed on all matters requiring her attention and propose recommendations to address them; ensures appropriate follow-up and coordination, as directed by the COS.
• Performs other duties as required.
Competencies
Professionalism: Ability to identify and analyze political, ethnic, racial, social and economic problems that cause civil unrest in a country or geographic area; Ability to deliver in a fast-moving environment. 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 the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Planning and 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 social science, political science, international relations, economics, law, public administration, or a related field is required.
A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Job – Specific Qualification
Not available.
Work Experience
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in political science, political affairs, international relations, law, mediation, conflict resolution, or related field is required.

Experience working in a United Nations common system field operation (peacekeeping, political missions and UN agencies, funds, and programmes), or similar international organization or non-governmental organization in a conflict/post-conflict or complex setting is required.

Experience in Latin America issues is desirable.

Experience working in a front office is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in both English and Spanish is required.