Senior Political Affairs Officer

About the role

The Senior Political Affairs Officer will support the Special Representative of the Secretary‑General (SRSG) in Bogota, providing high‑level political analysis and advice on Colombia’s peace process. This senior position leads a team, coordinates research, and ensures the Office of the SRSG integrates rights‑based, conflict‑prevention and gender perspectives into its work.

Key responsibilities

• Analyse political developments, trends and emerging issues related to the Colombian peace process and brief the SRSG.
• Plan and implement operational activities of the Office, embedding a rights‑based, conflict‑prevention and gender‑sensitive approach.
• Manage, coordinate and supervise research on political issues and prepare briefing notes, cables and talking points.
• Assess implications of political developments, recommend strategies and monitor outcomes.
• Develop and maintain relationships with senior government officials, civil‑society actors, UN partners and other stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor a work team, allocate assignments, evaluate performance and participate in recruitment and training.
• Plan and coordinate high‑level visits, conferences, trainings and inter‑agency programmes.
• Represent the mission at round‑tables, seminars and conferences and contribute to programme and budget planning.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in political analysis, peace‑process monitoring or related fields, preferably within an international organization.
• Proven ability to advise senior leadership and influence high‑level stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and team‑management skills, including coaching and performance evaluation.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; knowledge of Spanish is an asset.
• Demonstrated professionalism, commitment to UN values and ability to work under delegated authority.

Required skills