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ONE News understands former Prime Minister Helen Clark has secured the job heading the United Nations Development Programme.
Clark, New Zealand PM from 1999 to 2008, was considered a front runner for the job after interviewing in New York earlier this year.
She was on a short list of three and the position is expected to be confirmed by UN Secretary General Ban Ky-Moon later on Wednesday.
The role is the highest international post held by a New Zealander since former Prime Minister Mike Moore held the post of Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.
The job is number three in the United Nations, behind the Secretary General and his deputy.
The government strongly supported Clark's nomination for the job, Prime Minister John Key saying Clark has shown the leadership qualities necessary for an organisation like the United Nations in such difficult times.
Clark's credentials include not only her experience as Prime Minister but her leadership on many international issues and the recognition of her role in the evolution of New Zealand's anti-nuclear policy.
It is expected she will take up the post later this year.
Her departure will signal the need for a by-election in the Mt Albert electorate which she has held since 1981.
Clark has not yet made any comments.
