About the opportunity
The Director of Office and UNESCO Representative to Central African States serves as the head of the UNESCO Regional Office in Yaounde, Cameroon. The incumbent is responsible for implementing UNESCO’s regional strategic orientations and responding to the specific needs of Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Sao Tome and Principe. This leadership position involves managing multidisciplinary programs, overseeing national offices in Brazzaville, Kinshasa, and Libreville, and fostering robust external relations with regional bodies like CAEMC/CEMAC. The role requires high-level diplomatic engagement, resource mobilization, and the ability to represent UNESCO within the broader United Nations system to advance development agendas.
Salary and benefits
- Approximate annual starting salary of US$164,898
- 30 days of annual leave
- Family allowance
- Medical insurance
- Pension plan
- Facilitation of host country visa issuance
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a field related to UNESCO’s mandate, public/business administration, or international relations
- At least 15 years of progressive professional experience at a management level within the UN system, international, national, or private sector institutions
- Extensive experience in diplomatic work or development issues related to UNESCO’s areas of competence
- Demonstrated experience in advocacy, resource mobilization, and partnership building at global and local levels
- Excellent knowledge of and drafting skills in English or French, with the ability to work in the second language
- Professional experience in education, sciences, culture, social sciences, or communication
Required documents
- Completed online application
- Scanned copies of required degrees, diplomas, or certificates (if shortlisted for interview)
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-09-21 (Midnight Paris Time)
How to apply
- Visit the official UNESCO Careers website
- Complete the online application form
- Submit the application before the deadline; no modifications are possible after submission
Additional information
- Geographical mobility is required for international posts
- UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment
- Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States are particularly encouraged to apply
- Statutory retirement age is 65
- Selection process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, panel interviews, and reference checks
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Experienced senior leaders with a background in international diplomacy and UN-system operations
- Professionals with a proven track record in managing large-scale multidisciplinary programs and diverse teams
- Experts in resource mobilization and partnership development within the Central African region or similar geopolitical contexts
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a high-level D-1 management role requiring significant professional experience and a commitment to geographical mobility
- The position involves extensive travel and oversight of multiple national offices, requiring high adaptability to different cultural and political environments
- Candidates must be proficient in both English and French to effectively manage regional relations
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is ideal for a seasoned international civil servant looking to lead regional strategic initiatives and influence development policy at the highest level. It offers a unique opportunity to shape UNESCO's impact across ten Central African nations, making it a significant career milestone for those dedicated to multilateral cooperation and regional development.
Our take
This position is best suited for established senior managers with deep expertise in international relations and UNESCO's core sectors. It is a demanding, high-stakes leadership role that requires both intellectual leadership and robust operational management skills.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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