Background:

In an increasingly globalized world, where the importance of multilateral dialogue and cooperation is ever growing, the demand of Member States for capacity development is constantly rising. As governments are facing the challenge of covering a growing number of increasingly complex and interconnected issues on policymaking agendas, it is vital that their diplomats perform effectively and efficiently. To support Member States in the achievement of this goal, UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit raises awareness and transfers knowledge on the practices, policies and procedures of the multilateral working environment and the United Nations intergovernmental machinery as well as on emerging diplomatic issues. Courses are designed for the benefit of diplomats belonging to UN Member States.

Accountabilities:

Under the supervision of the Senior Programme Specialist of the Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit, the Training Assistant will assist in the coordination of Human Resources and related Masters Programmes and Executive Diplomas in the field of Multilateral Diplomacy. MDPU activities are designed traditionally for representatives of Member States posted in capitals at the UN Headquarters in New York, UN Offices in Geneva, Nairobi, Vienna, and at Regional Commissions, but more recently participants include students, individuals or private sector organisations. The incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:

1. Supporting UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit with its Human Resources and Administration:
   • Maintaining HR systems and processes and coordinating with Team Leads to ensure Programme’s strategic HR goals are met;
   • Facilitating the preparation, monitoring and follow up of Trainee, Individual Contractor and External Consultant contracts of the Programme;
   • Coordination and monitoring of IT equipment for MDPU team members;
   • Support MDPU with Mission Authorisations for internal and external travelers;
   • Maintaining administrative trackers;
   • Performing a variety of administrative tasks to ensure ensure the smooth running of the Programme;

2. Supporting UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit with the coordination and implementation of Master Programmes and Executive Diplomas targetted at universities, individuals or private sector organisations:
   • Monitoring market developments and trends to identify opportunities to create Masters programme(s) and innovative training activities to target universities, individuals and/or private sector organisations;
   • Identifying sustainable funding options to support potential Master programmes;
   • Adapting existing Programme activities for inclusion within Masters programmes;
   • Producing project documents and proposals for submission to potential donors;
   • Monitoring and evaluation of existing projects and activities, and drafting reports for submission to donors and other project partners;
   • Performing other tasks to ensure effective programme development and implementation.

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

• Staff in related programmes, units, sections and offices of the Institute;
• Diplomatic staff of Permanent Missions accredited to the United Nations Offices;
• Counterparts working in other international organizations, including those in the United Nations system;
• Staff in the training and professional development departments/divisions of Ministries of Foreign Affairs; and
• Non-governmental organizations, universities, the private sector and the press/media.

Results Expected:

Overall support to the Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit, including coordination of Masters Programmes and Executive Diplomas; efficient and effective support with Human Resources and associated administration; and implementation of the programme’s activities and services as enshrined in the Institute work plan; effective communication with internal and external counterparts to achieve prescribed results.

Competencies:

• Integrity – demonstrates the values of the United Nations in daily activities and behaviours; acts without consideration of personal gain; resists undue political pressure in decision-making; does not abuse power or authority; stands by decisions that are in the Organization’s interest, even if they are unpopular; takes prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour.
• Professionalism – Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of training activities, including course design, delivery, methodologies and practices, evaluation, adult learning principles, and the UN System; shows pride in working and achievements; 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.
• Respect for Diversity – Works effectively with people from all backgrounds; treats all people with dignity and respect; treats men and women equally; shows respect for and understanding of diverse points of view and demonstrates this understanding in daily work and decision-making; examines own biases and behaviours to avoid stereotypical responses; does not discriminate against any individual or group.
• Planning & 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.
• Commitment to continuous learning – Keeps abreast of new developments in own occupation/profession; actively seeks to develop oneself professionally and personally; contributes to the learning of colleagues and subordinates; shows willingness to learn from others; seeks feedback to learn and improve.
• Communications – 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.
• Technology awareness – Keeps abreast of available technology; understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks; shows willingness to learn new technology.
• Teamwork – Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda.