UN Consultant for Major Group for Children and Youth
Terms of Reference The Youth Development Officer will have the following tasks: •
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Assist the Major Groups Organising Partners and relevant Working Groups Facilitators in implementing a more coordinated approach to supporting youth policy and advocacy development for Rio+20. Assess needs, prepare plans and coordinate Major Groups activities related to youth in preparation for Rio+20. Facilitate networking and coordination between youth organisations to strengthen youth preparations for Rio+20, and monitor various deliverables to the Conference as well as their outcomes. Support the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY) constituency by assisting youth initiatives, bridging various networks, identifying synergies between youth organisations, and enabling youth stakeholders to contribute effectively toward MGCY activities for Rio+20. Liaise with other organisations working more broadly in the field of sustainable development, including the private sector and foundations that support youth around sustainable development issues. Organise and run meetings, seminars, briefings, debates and networking events. Monitor and report on youth activities in support of Rio+20. Draft briefing papers and reports. Follow up and participate in events and activities related to Rio+20 and support youth participation at those events and activities. Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy to disseminate information to youth organizations and youth leaders in the lead-up to Rio+20, communicate with Major Groups both attending the Conference and abroad, and continue informing Major Groups on the outcomes of Rio+20. Update and maintain the MGCY website.
The candidate must meet the following criteria: • • • • • • • • •
A first-level university degree is required. Relevant UN or international organization experience working in the area of youth development is strongly preferred. Experience working with volunteers is strongly preferred. Experience in organising international meetings and youth activities is preferred. Experience in NGO organisational development and capacity building is preferred. Ability to function independently as part of a team. Ability to work flexible hours and, when required, on weekends. Availability for occasional travel. Ability to work online.
Skills and Competencies Required: • • • • • • • • •
Solid background in social development, NGO organizational development, and youth. Existing knowledge of UN Agencies work related to youth and sustainable development. Capacity to manage several activities simultaneously and to prioritise work. Ability to research, collate, analyse and summarise information. Capacity to work with people from different social and cultural backgrounds. Excellent writing, communication and representation skills in English A good working knowledge of another UN language will be an asset. Computer literacy, with good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, email and Internet applications, knowledge of open source software will be an asset. At least 1 year of active involvement with the UNCSD MGCY