UNFPASenior (P-5+)Policy & Governance

Preparation Guide

Social Policy and Health Economics Adviser - WCARO, Dakar, Senegal, P5 (P-5) — UNFPA

19 days until deadline (26 June 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (P-5), contract type (Staff), and UNFPA's typical recruitment process.

Apply19d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 3-6 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message?
CoreAccountability
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you took responsibility for a mistake or an unsuccessful outcome. What did you learn?
CoreIntegrity
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you had to make an ethical decision under pressure.
ManagerialLeadership
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you had to lead a team through a significant change or challenge.
ManagerialVision
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you defined a long-term strategy or direction for your team or project.
FunctionalAdvocacy
FunctionalResource Mobilization
FunctionalInnovation
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about an innovative approach you introduced in your work.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

InnovationCommunicationsDesignData AnalysisBudgetingAccountingProcurementCompensation and BenefitsProtectionGender-Based ViolencePublic HealthHealth SystemsReproductive HealthSustainable DevelopmentGeneration and Data AnalysisAfrican DevelopmentIslamic DevelopmentGeneration and Economic AnalysisHealth EconomicsHealth Financing

Position Profile

GradeP-5
SenioritySenior (P-5+)
Role TypePolicy & Governance
ContractStaff
EducationPhD / Doctorate
Experience10+ years
LanguagesEnglish, French
SalaryUSD 151,033.56–173,751.912/yr
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (8 total)
  • Research UNFPA's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Refresh your French language skills
  • Read recent news and developments about UNFPA
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.