Long-serving American Diplomat Rosemary di Carlo was appointed to become the first woman to head UN political affairs, one of the most high-profile positions at the world body.
DiCarlo will replace Jeffrey Feltman, another American who held the post of under-secretary-general for political affairs since 2012, overseeing UN efforts to end conflicts worldwide.
The appointment marks the first time in the world body's history that a woman will hold the senior position.