Institute Leader

About UN University

UN University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. Our mission is to contribute to solving pressing global problems through policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination.

We have been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development for over five decades. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, our expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change.

We collaborate closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit our website.

We are seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Director of UNU-WIDER. As the Chief Academic and Administrative officer of the institute, you will be responsible for the direction, organisation, administration, and programming of UNU-WIDER.

• Serve as the Chief Academic and Administrative officer of the institute with overall responsibility for the direction, organisation, administration, and programming of UNU-WIDER;

• Manage, hire and supervise personnel, promoting diversity, inclusion, and gender equality;

• Manage the Institute's budget, including reporting requirements to donors and within the UNU system;

• Lead relations with the host country (Finland), donors, and other key stakeholders.

Your Key Responsibilities

As the Director of UNU-WIDER, you will be responsible for:

1. Developing and implementing a shared vision for the institution, articulating its value to a wide range of audiences, and engaging others in its implementation;

2. Formulating and articulating a compelling funding strategy for future work programmes in a funding environment undergoing rapid change;

3. Establishing and maintaining relationships with the UN system, governments, local, regional, national and international partners, donors, and other stakeholders to achieve collaboration on programme development, implementation, and resource mobilisation;

4. Leading a policy and impact-driven programme of substantive research, capacity-building, and knowledge translation in development economics;

5. Overseeing the implementation of research programmes, ensuring that research outputs are high quality and policy-relevant, and that recommendations are channelled effectively to the UN system, policymakers, and other stakeholders;

6. Representing UNU-WIDER and establishing strategic partnerships with major UN stakeholders, think tanks, research organisations, and academic networks internal and external to UNU;

Requirements

To be successful in this role, you will need:

1. A doctoral qualification in Economics or a related discipline;

2. At least fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in Economics or a related discipline, of which at least five years in a managerial role, with demonstrable leadership and management;

3. A strong background of research and publications on policy-relevant issues in Economics or a relevant field;

4. A track record of developing policy-relevant research initiatives which can contribute to policymaking at the local, regional, national and international levels; and of engagement with policymakers and/or policy processes;

5. A distinguished record of effective management and leadership;

6. Demonstrated experience in sound financial and human resource management;

7. Strong fundraising skills and demonstrable success in securing support from multiple funders;

8. The ability to interact with colleagues of diverse cultural backgrounds and with political representatives and communities in both developed and developing countries;

9. Proven commitment to issues of human development;

10. Demonstrated understanding of gender issues and commitment to the UN principles and ideals;

11. Knowledge of the UN system notably in the field development economics is a strong asset;

What We Offer

As a member of our team, you will enjoy:

1. An attractive, tax exempt compensation package including an annual net salary (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), 30 days annual leave, dependency benefits, pension plan and health insurance scheme;

2. The opportunity to work with a dynamic team of experts and contribute to solving pressing global problems;

3. The chance to develop your skills and experience in a fast-paced and challenging environment;

4. A comprehensive training and development programme to support your professional growth and development;

5. The possibility of advancement and career progression within the Organisation.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and experienced professional looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your application, including your motivation statement and a few questions tailored to the position, via our online portal.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications must be received by mid-night Eastern European time zone (EET) on the deadline.