Organization
The United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) is a membership organization dedicated to inform, inspire, and mobilize the American people to support the ideals and vital work of the United Nations. For 70 years, UNA-USA has worked to accomplish its mission through its national network of Chapters, youth engagement, advocacy efforts, education programs, and public events. UNA-USA is a program of the United Nations Foundation. UNA-USA and its sister organization the Better World Campaign represent the single largest network of advocates and supporters of the United Nations in the world. Learn more about UNA-USA’s programs and initiatives at www.unausa.org.
Overview
The Executive Director of the United Nations Association of the USA is responsible for the management and development of UNA-USA, UNA-USA membership (individuals and chapters), the Council of Organizations, Leo Nevas Human Rights Program, Global Classrooms Model UN program, communications, advocacy, and fundraising. The Executive Director is the principal liaison with the organization’s advisory bodies: Strategy Council, Leo Nevas Human Rights Task Force, and Council of Organizations Executive Committee. The Executive Director is also responsible for the close coordination of UNA-USA with other programs, initiatives and activities of the United Nations Foundation, particularly the Better World Campaign. This job is based in Washington, DC.
Working Relationships
The Executive Director, UNA-USA reports to the Vice President, Public Policy.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
  • Craft and implement strategies to strengthen existing UNA-USA chapters and to develop new chapters through effective and proven techniques associated with the management and growth of chapter-based organizations.
  • Develop an understanding of the complex issues in the relationship between the U.S. and the UN and develop close relationships with senior officials in the U.S. government dealing with UN issues, at the UN, as well as NGO leaders working to advance UN causes.
  • Coordinate the work of UNA-USA with other programs, campaigns, and activities of the United Nations Foundation and the Better World Fund and serve as a team player with other UNF/BWF teams, including Public Affairs and Global Partnerships, to further the development of UNA-USA.
  • Serve as the UNA-USA contact with UNF principals, UNF senior staff and long-time supporters of UNA-USA and ensure open channels of communication with UNA-USA members and leadership.
  • Travel to chapters around the country for public speaking and to discuss chapter-management issues and the US-UN relationship, and facilitate the travel of other UNA-USA staff and outside speakers to chapters.
  • In close consultation with UNA-USA chapter members and leaders, the Council of Chapter and Regions and the Better World Campaign, develop and implement a UNA-USA advocacy agenda and policy platform.
  • Oversee management of UNA-USA web presence and production of communications materials (e-newsletters, advocacy brochures, letters, fact sheets, publications such as the InterDependent) for UNA-USA members and broader audiences.
  • Play a leadership role in working with UNA chapters and the Council of Chapters and Regions in organizing effective annual meetings and cultivating chapter capacity locally.
  • Manage the budget of UNA-USA in conjunction with UN Foundation finance staff. Supervise professional and administrative staff in DC and NYC.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Selection Criteria
  • Minimum 5+ year’s executive experience with a chapter-based, membership association - required.
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of community leaders, business executives, government /UN officials, and donors.
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills, strong leadership and management skills and experience, and ability to interact credibly with chapter members and leadership – required.
  • Commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations – required.
  • Experience working in international affairs/international development sector - preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree preferred.
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle stress.
  • Ability to meet regular tardiness / attendance policy.
Location
  • Washington, DC
Compensation & Benefits
Salary commensurate with experience. Actual salary will depend on qualifications and anticipated contribution to the Foundation.
UNF pays 100% of medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance premiums for its employees and 75% of medical and vision for employees' dependents.
In addition, UNF provides 20 days of paid vacation per year, 12 paid holidays, three personal days per year, an immediately vested 150% matching 403(b) contribution up to a limit of six-percent of employee pay, Metro Pass benefits, and flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.