Director of Administration

About the role

The Director of Administration leads the Division of Administration at the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The role oversees holistic administrative services—including procurement, human resources, finance, facilities, conference services, information technology, real estate, and medical & safety services—ensuring efficient support for ESCAP’s mandate. The incumbent reports directly to the Executive Secretary.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice on integrated management of financial, human, and physical resources in line with UN reform initiatives.
• Support senior leadership with data‑informed decision‑making and implementation of modern service delivery models.
• Develop and operationalize resource and asset management frameworks that maintain fiduciary integrity and organizational agility.
• Design and oversee strategies, processes, and procedures for HR, finance, procurement, ICT, conference services, real estate, travel, transport, and host‑country relations.
• Prepare major reports for senior management and UN bodies such as the General Assembly and ACABQ.
• Ensure compliance with UN regulations, rules, policies, and procedures across all operational areas.
• Act as a service provider to other UN entities in the Asia‑Pacific region.

Required profile

• Extensive senior‑level experience managing administration in large international or UN‑type organizations.
• Deep knowledge of UN administrative rules, procurement, human resources, finance, and facilities management.
• Proven ability to lead strategic planning, budgeting, talent management, and reform initiatives.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills with experience preparing high‑level UN documents.
• Fluency in English and excellent communication abilities.

Required skills