Senior Leadership Vacancies at the United Nations – 3 Open Job Positions at UNHCR, WFP & UNODC

As the world’s foremost international organization, the United Nations (UN) relies on an exceptional cadre of senior leaders to steer its vision and mission. The appointment of these leaders is a responsibility entrusted to the Secretary-General, who acts as the Chief Administrative Officer of the UN. 

Current Senior Leadership Vacancies

Below are current senior leadership roles currently open for applications:

The Appointment Process: Balancing Transparency and Confidentiality

The Secretary-General’s discretionary authority to appoint senior leaders is exercised with utmost care. Recognizing the importance of both transparency and confidentiality, the UN has established a recruitment and selection process that balances:

• Openness: Upcoming senior-level vacancies are communicated to all Member States through a Note Verbale and are publicly advertised on the UN’s official channels.
• Widest Outreach: Vacancy announcements are distributed through various professional and outreach networks, ensuring access to a diverse and inclusive pool of candidates.
• Confidentiality: All nominations and applications are treated with the strictest confidence to protect both candidate privacy and the impartiality of the recruitment process.

Prospective candidates are also encouraged to join the Senior Leadership Talent Pool to be considered for future opportunities.

Rigorous Selection and Assessment

Given the global significance of these roles, the UN employs a multi-stage, thorough assessment process:

• Shortlisting: Due to the large volume of applications, only those selected for interviews are contacted.
• Evaluation: Shortlisted candidates undergo comprehensive assessments, including reference and background checks.
• Integrity Checks: Human rights conduct and conflict of interest screenings are mandatory, upholding the organization’s core values.

Leadership Values and Behaviours

Senior Leaders at the UN are not just administrators—they are role models who embody the organization’s foundational principles:

• Core Values: Inclusion, Integrity, Humility, Humanity
• Behavioural Framework: Connect and Collaborate; Analyse and Plan; Deliver Results with Positive Impact; Learn and Develop; Adapt and Innovate

These leaders are expected to exemplify the United Nations System Leadership Framework, fostering an environment of excellence, respect, and innovation.

Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Zero Tolerance

The UN is steadfast in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. All qualified candidates, regardless of background, are encouraged to apply. The organization maintains zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment (including sexual harassment), and discrimination of any kind.

• Language Requirements: English and French are the working languages. Fluency in English is required; proficiency in another UN official language is an asset.

Our Conclusion

Serving as a senior leader at the United Nations is both a profound honor and a significant responsibility. The rigorous, transparent, and inclusive recruitment process ensures that only the most qualified, ethical, and visionary individuals lead the way in advancing peace, human rights, and sustainable development worldwide. If you are ready to make a global impact, consider applying for one of these prestigious roles and become a part of the United Nations’ legacy of service and leadership.

For any questions or technical issues, candidates are encouraged to contact the Secretariat at seniorleadershipvacancies@un.org.