Job: Chief Field Office

Location: Erbil, Iraq
Deadline: Thursday, 25 July 2013 

Description

Purpose of the Position

Under the general guidance of the Representative, responsible for the programme implementation, field coordination and emergency response in the North zone. Responsible for leading a group of professionals and support staff to develop and administer a programme consisting of a range of projects.

Key Expected Results

• Prepares inputs for all required documentation / reporting relating to the country programme as required, including programme reports for management, donors, budget reviews, programme analysis, annual reports, etc. Participates in the formulation and development of emergency programme goals, strategies and approaches for UNICEF interventions and for the longer term UNICEF plan of cooperation.
• Plans, implements and monitors assigned activities ensuring UNICEF maintains lead co-ordination role in the relevant sectors.
• Participates with UNICEF / government / NGOS and other partners in operational and strategic coordination, and in the development of strategies, methodologies and identification of new approaches for improving programme delivery, with emphasis on delivery of services for children and women, advocacy, community participation and social mobilization.
• Reviews and evaluates the technical, institutional and financial feasibility and constraints of programmes/projects in coordination and collaboration with UNICEF Iraq/Baghdad, government and other partners.
• Provides technical support to government and non-government organizations at the governorate, district, sub-district and community levels in the planning, development and implementation stages of the programmes/projects.
• Plans, organizes and conducts training and orientation activities for government personnel and beneficiaries, for the purpose of local capacity building and expansion of coverage of services. Undertakes regular field visits in order to support monitoring of UNICEF investments.
• Identifies problems and proposes remedial action. Identifies alternative courses of action, to accelerate/improve programme delivery.
• In conjunction with section Chiefs and Chief, PICER, develops the AWP for the Zone and monitors compliance to ensure objectives and targets are met and achieved. Guides and supervises professional and support staff.
• Ensures their training needs are met, and provides on-the-job training.
• Coordinates with Operations/Supply staff on supply and non- supply assistance activities.
• Approves disbursement of funds at Zonal level ensuring proper utilization and accountability, and ensures that activities are within established plans of action and programme budget allotments.
• Participates in establishing effective monitoring, coordination, information and reporting systems in conjunction with other UN agencies, and in the development of communication materials and strategies to support advocacy and community participation.

Qualifications of Successful Candidate

The post is expected to provide advice and interpretation of the guidelines and organizational policies to professional and technical staff, and to contribute to the development of new guidelines as the programme evolves or the country situation demands.

EDUCATION:

Advanced university degree in any of the following: Social Sciences, Public Administration, International Relations, Business Administration, Public Health, Education, or other fields related to the work of UNICEF.

A first University degree combined with relevant work experience may be acceptable in lieu of an advanced degree.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Eight years of professional work experience at the national and international levels in social development, management, monitoring and evaluation. LANGUAGES: Fluency in English and another UN language is required. Knowledge of Arabic is an asset.

Competencies of Successful Candidate

• Current knowledge of development issues, strategies, as well as programming policies and procedures in international development cooperation.
• Proven ability to conceptualize, innovate, plan and execute ideas, as well as to impart knowledge and teach skills.
• Ability to supervise and direct a team of professional staff.
• Good analytical, negotiating, communication and advocacy skills.
• Computer skills, including internet navigation and various office applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and establish harmonious and effective working relationships both within and outside the organization.

Remarks

1. Erbil is a non-family duty station.

2. The successful candidate is expected to commence work within 31 days of receiving an offer.

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organisation.

More Info and Application