Programme Management Officer – Human Settlements (P4)

About the role

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN‑Habitat) is seeking a Programme Management Officer (P4) to lead the implementation of a multi‑year urban development project in Saudi Arabia. Based in Riyadh, the incumbent will work closely with the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing to deliver key workstreams that shape national spatial planning, urban policy and municipal governance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design and adoption of a national Spatial Planning Act.
• Develop and promote a comprehensive National Urban Policy.
• Oversee the classification and re‑classification of the municipal system.
• Establish and operationalise a National Urban Lab for research and innovation.
• Support broader UN‑Habitat programme activities in Saudi Arabia, including monitoring, reporting and coordination across housing, informal settlements, urban economy and urban information management.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in urban planning, public policy, geography, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in programme management and implementation of large‑scale urban development projects.
• Proven ability to work with government ministries and multi‑stakeholder partnerships.
• Strong understanding of sustainable urban development, the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030.
• Excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills.

Required skills