Director, Division for Sustainable Development Goals

About the role

The Director leads the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) within the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, providing strategic direction and management for programmes supporting the 2030 Agenda, the Technology Facilitation Mechanism, the Water Action Agenda and related initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and manage the DSDG, delivering substantive support, integrated policy analysis and capacity development across thematic areas such as natural resources, water, energy, climate, ocean, transport, science and technology.
• Contribute to the formulation of department-wide strategies and policies, preparing policy documents and advising senior UN officials.
• Lead the development of innovative change‑management programmes and allocate resources to meet priority objectives.
• Oversee the timely execution of division activities, coordinating with other UN bodies, donors and agencies.
• Support internal coordination to ensure efficient and accountable delivery of the department’s work.
• Coordinate the preparation of major publications, including the Global Sustainable Development Report and parliamentary reports for intergovernmental forums.

Required profile

• Extensive senior‑level experience in sustainable development, international policy and multi‑stakeholder partnership building.
• Proven leadership in managing large, multidisciplinary teams within an intergovernmental or multilateral environment.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning abilities, with a track record of influencing high‑level decision‑makers.

Required skills