Chief of Service – Specialized Desks

About the role

The Chief of Service (Specialized Desks) leads a multi‑entity staff administration unit within the Common Administrative Platform at United Nations Headquarters. Reporting to the Director of Administration, the role ensures seamless delivery of HR, travel, and general operational services to New York‑based UN client entities.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the full spectrum of human‑resources and administration activities for Specialized Desks, including recruitment, onboarding, entitlement disbursement, contract management and staff separation.
• Coordinate and supervise outputs of Talent Sourcing, Staff Administration, Affiliated Personnel, Travel and General Operations to meet programme timelines and quality standards.
• Prepare and monitor programme performance reports, highlighting substantive issues for senior management.
• Assist the Director of Administration in setting work priorities, allocating resources and developing the service work programme.
• Lead high‑sensitivity management reviews, directing review teams through all stages.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in senior administrative or human‑resources leadership within large, multi‑entity organisations.
• Proven ability to manage complex programmes, ensure regulatory compliance and drive service efficiency.
• Strong analytical and data‑driven decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management capabilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape administrative services at a global institution.
• Collaborative work environment within the United Nations system.
• Competitive UN benefits and professional development programmes.