Job: Operations Officer (Cooperation with the European Union)

Location: Brussels, Belgium
Closing Date: Wednesday, 20 November 2013

Background / General description:

The Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) is a partnership of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) system to support the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA). The HFA is the primary international agreement for disaster reduction, adopted by one hundred sixty-eight (168) governments and multilateral organizations, including the World Bank. The principal strategic goal of the HFA is to effectively integrate, in a coherent manner, disaster risk considerations into sustainable development policies, planning, programming, and financing at all levels of government.

The GFDRR is managed by the World Bank on behalf of the participating donor partners and other partnering stakeholders. The work of the GFDRR is divided into three tracks. Track I is designed to enhance global and regional advocacy, partnerships, and knowledge management for mainstreaming disaster reduction. Track II is directed at mainstreaming disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in country development processes to ensure that risk assessments, risk mitigation, risk transfer, and emergency preparedness are incorporated into in all strategic plans and programs. This track is designed to provide ex ante support, primarily through technical assistance to enhance investments in risk reduction and risk transfer mechanisms, as well as disaster management planning to low- and middle-income country governments. Track III supports primarily low-income countries for accelerated disaster recovery and risk reduction in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

Since 2006, GFDRR has relied on the WB office in Brussels to foster cooperation with the EU, European bilateral donors and the ACP Group of States. A 54.5 million Euro contribution from the EU to GFDRR to support Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) activities in ACP countries was signed in May 2011, establishing the ACP-EU Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (NDRR) Program. The GFDRR Brussels team was expanded to be able to support the implementation of the ACP-EU NDRR Program and continue to act as GFDRR focal point on the partnership with the European Institutions and European bilateral donors. The objective of the ACP-EU NDRR Program is to address prevention; mitigation and preparedness to natural hazards in ACP countries, through three windows of action with technical assistance, capacity building and advisory/ analytical work at regional and country levels. The Program also supports requests from ACP countries in the aftermath of a disaster with post disaster needs assessments (PDNA), rapid-response technical assistance, capacity building and the development of sustainable recovery frameworks. After nearly two years into implementation, the ACP-EU NDRR Program has a growing portfolio of 40+ projects and has engaged in various outreach activities.

Note: This is an international term appointment in the Brussels Office (HQ Satellite Office). The local salary scale applies, and standard expatriate benefits (home leave & education benefits) apply should a non-Belgian national be selected.

Note: If the selected candidate is a current Bank Group staff member with a Regular or Open-Ended appointment, s/he will retain his/her Regular or Open-Ended appointment. All others will be offered a 2 year term appointment.

Duties and Accountabilities:

The Operations Officer will mainly be working on the implementation of the ACP-EU NDRR Program. He/She will also focus on strengthening GFDRR's overall partnership with the EC beyond ACP countries and act as GFDRR focal point in Brussels on the coordination with the EC on Post-disaster Needs Assessments and the Recovery Framework.

All tasks described below will be undertaken under the supervision of GFDRR Senior Operations Officer/ Team Leader, ACP-EU NDRR Programme and EU Donors Relations in Brussels, the GFDRR Manager and the relevant Team Leaders in GFDRR DC, and in close coordination with the WB DRM regional teams and the other members of the GFDRR Brussels team.

Implementation of the ACP-EU NDRR Program and other potential partnerships with the EC (60%)

As part of the GFDRR Brussels team, the incumbent will contribute to the day-to-day implementation of the ACP-EU NDRR Program, in particular:

• Coordinate the monitoring of the overall implementation status of the ACP-EU NDRR Program, identifying the gaps in the approval and the implementation of proposals, and proposing actions to address them. When required, conduct site visits to assess the quality of grant implementation, monitor grant activity, meet with stakeholders and ensure that the objectives are met and the work is harmonized with GFDRR's mission;
• Coordinate the preparation of financial and narrative reports to the European Commission on the implementation of the ACP-EU NDRR program as foreseen in the WB-EC Administration Agreement. Contribute to ad hoc/monthly reporting to the ACP Secretariat.
• Review and comment proposals submitted under Windows I, II and III of the ACP-EU NDRR Program, taking into account their compliance with the program's objectives and eligibility criteria, technical feasibility and budget.
• Develop and maintain - together with GFDRR Monitoring and Evaluation Team in HQ - the ACP-EU NDRR monitoring, evaluation and reporting system, to be able to regularly report to the EC on progress made by the program as per the jointly agreed indicators, as well as to report on the Program's contribution to the GFDRR Strategy and Work Plan and ensure coherence with the overall GFDRR M&E framework.
• Liaise with GFDRR Task Managers and all Regional DRM Coordinators on the status of implementation of activities to be able to report back regularly to the EC and anticipate possible issues/ challenges.
• Liaise with the EC and be the focal point on GFDRR Brussels to ensure good coordination in the different phases of a PDNA (both at HQ and Delegation level) and to speed up the approval of PDNA financing requests under Window III of the ACP-EU NDRR Program.
• Contribute to the smooth implementation of the communication strategy of the ACP-EU NDRR program, including i) website management and regular update, ii) addressing EU visibility requirements (PDNAs and other report, conferences etc), iii) development and update of the ACP-EU NDRR Program related communication tools mentioned in the plan, iv) ensure that updates on the ACP-EU NDRR Program activities are regularly fed into GFDRR main website, newsletter and other relevant GFDRR communication tools with clear and visible logos etc.
• Contribute to the implementation of future partnership programs with the European Commission. This includes in particular drafting of the implementation arrangements (in collaboration with the EC and the World Bank DRM Regional Coordinators), appraisal of proposals, monitoring of the program implementation, evaluation of the proposals results, reporting to the EC and the related Steering Committee etc.

GFDRR Post-Disaster Needs Assessment and Recovery Framework (20%)

• Act as focal point for Post-Disaster response and the Recovery Framework initiative in GFDRR Brussels. Advise and support the Team Leader for Sustainable Recovery on the overall coordination with the EU including identifying possible fund raising opportunities.
• Facilitate the coordination between EU (HQ and Delegations), WB and UN in the different phases of the PDNAs, as well as during the rolling out of the Recovery Framework initiative.
• If requested by the Team Leader for Sustainable Recovery, participate as a member of World Bank's rapid response team in post-disaster needs assessment missions in ACP countries and beyond.
• Contribute to the elaboration and finalization of the PDNA guide, a joint UN-EU-WB initiative to consolidate methodologies to conduct long-term recovery assessments in post disaster situations
  Fostering the cooperation with the EU Institutions and Member States on DRR and CCA and contribute to GFDRR Brussels team day-to-day activities (15%)
• Identify and promote strategic collaboration between GFDRR and the EC in the field of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.
• Undertake research and knowledge management activities, monitor EU news related to DRR and CCA to be sent regularly to GFDRR colleagues in Brussels and DC
• Prepare briefs for GFDRR and World Bank Senior Management meetings with EU Institutions.
• Contribute to the organization of GFDRR events, report launches etc in Brussels and abroad (if so requested) including logistics, sending invitations etc.
• Attend and represent GFDRR in meetings and for a related to DRR in Brussels and abroad.
  Any other task as assigned by the Sr Operations Officer, GFDRR Brussels (5%)
• Support the GFDRR Brussels Sr Operations Officer in day-to-day tasks as needed
• Act as back up for the other members of the GFDRR Brussels Team whenever needed
• Represent GFDRR at internal and external meetings and deliver presentations on ACP-EU NDRR Program as well as on GFDRR in general.

Selection Criteria:

• Master's degree in Economics, Social or political Sciences, Environmental Sciences or related field.
• At least five years of experience in the areas related to development cooperation, disaster risk reduction and/or and climate change and humanitarian affairs.
• Experience working in an international organization. Working experience in a developing country/field office and knowledge of World Bank operations would be an advantage
• Strong knowledge of EU institutions, policies and financing instruments. Experience working with EU would be a plus.
• Self-starter works independently, seeking guidance on complex projects/issues from senior staff.
• Strong integration and writing skills, capable of pulling together inputs from various sources to address complex issues under pressure and in a timely manner. Strong communication and advocacy skills.
• Experience in post disaster situations, including field assignments would be an advantage.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and French. Knowledge of other languages is an asset.
• Strong computer skills, Microsoft applications.

Required Competencies:

• Knowledge and Experience in Development Arena - Understands policy making process; distills operationally relevant recommendations/lessons for clients.
• Policy Dialogue Skills - Identifies and assesses policy issues and plays an active role in the dialogue with the government and/or other stakeholders.
• Integrative Skills - Working to develop an integrated view across all facets of current sector. Client Orientation - Takes personal responsibility and accountability for timely response to client queries, requests or needs, working to remove obstacles that may impede execution or overall success.
• Drive for Results - Takes personal ownership and accountability to meet deadlines and achieve agreed-upon results, and has the personal organization to do so.
• Teamwork (Collaboration) and Inclusion - Collaborates with other team members and contributes productively to the team's work and output, demonstrating respect for different points of view.
• Knowledge, Learning and Communication - Actively seeks knowledge needed to complete assignments and shares knowledge with others, communicating and presenting information in a clear and organized manner.
• Business Judgment and Analytical Decision Making - Analyzes facts and data to support sound, logical decisions regarding own and others' work.

More Info and Application

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Job: CONSULTANT - PARLIAMENTARY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Location : Brussels, BELGIUM

Application Deadline : 17-Nov-13

Type of Contract : Individual Contract

Post Level : International Consultant

Languages Required : English French

Starting Date : (date when the selected candidate is expected to start) 01-Jan-2014

Duration of Initial Contract : 125 days

Expected Duration of Assignment :1 year

Background

UNDP's Democratic Governance Group (DGG) is focusing on enhancing the capacity of the state to make it more responsive, capable, and inclusive. The genuine participation of all citizens in political processes is a cornerstone of democratic governance. UNDP fosters inclusive participation and civic engagement, placing high priority on under-represented segments of society such as the poor, women, indigenous peoples and minorities. Vibrant and vigorous democracies are developed and sustained through inclusive participation, which also advances achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The presence of an effective parliamentary institution is strongly correlated with the existence of a viable democracy and an open society. Parliaments are fundamental to representing the people's will, establishing the rule of law, protecting human rights, overseeing transparent governance processes, and ensuring compliance with international obligations. UNDP provides technical assistance to more than 70 parliaments around the world in their efforts to: build the capacity of legislators and technical staff; promote institutional reform, political dialogue and conflict prevention ; strengthen parliaments' relationships with the executive and judiciary branches of government and with civil society; improve access to parliamentary information for the population and the media, and enhance the effectiveness of women's role and participation among parliaments through internal reforms and exchanges. UNDP's parliamentary development portfolio comprises activities rooted at the global, regional and national levels. Strategic support to national parliaments, promoting inclusive and participative political institutions and engaging parliaments on key MDG's and crisis prevention issues are at the core of UNDP's activities, with a dedicated focus on women and youth. At the regional level, UNDP supports parliamentary working groups to develop new avenues for dialogue on sensitive topics and agree on regional benchmarks. Globally, web-based social networks invite the exchange of information and ideas. Two cutting-edge tools are iKNOW Politics ( www.iknowpolitics.org) for the political empowerment of women and Agora ( www.agora-parl.org), the portal for parliamentary development. UNDP also works with its partners to develop regional and global benchmarks for democratic parliaments and to create cutting-edge knowledge products on parliamentary development. AGORA launched a completely renewed Portal in July 2013 and is now available in English, French and Arabic. It also reviewed some of its core areas of knowledge to ensure the information and materials provided are cutting edge and remain relevant, and seeks to create a second e-learning course and a pilot toolkit in 2014. Beyond this, the AGORA team is implementing a new communication strategy designed to increase the outreach of the project, and to build and strengthen relationships with new and existing partners. To this end, the AGORA team would like to engage a Parliamentary Development Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities

Summary of Key Functions:

Manage the development of a second AGORA e-learning course and pilot toolkit on ‘Parliaments & Climate Change':

• Selection of the expert(s);
• Development of the storyboard; liaison with the online developer, graphic designer and translators;
• Development of a dedicated outreach & communication strategy.

Act as AGORA focal point on ‘energy and environment':

• Manage AGORA's activities and knowledge products on the role of parliaments and climate change, renewable energy and energy efficiency;
• AGORA liaison for the ‘Parliamentary Action on Renewable Energy' (PARE) project (facilitate knowledge exchange, develop trainance modules; publish video testimonials);
• Maintain close relationships with the AGORA partners and Implementing Board; draft the quarterly project updates; assist the Knowledge Manager in enlarging the partnership by mapping and reaching out to potential new partners;
• Develop, implement and monitor the communication and outreach strategy, including the design of new promotional materials should additional funding become available. Particular focus on outreach to parliaments, Civil Society Organisations and Parliamentary Monitoring Organisations.
• Support the Knowledge Manager in providing technical backstopping and substantive support to UNDP to country offices and AGORA partners by conducting research and collecting knowledge materials, including the quarterly publication of an ‘AGORA Brief' on a timely parliamentary development topic to share with the network
• Assist the Knowledge Manager in resource mobilization efforts and reporting
• Liaise with IT on the development of new features, updates and bugs as required
• Oversee daily updates in the English/French News and Interact sections
• Draft 3 additional ‘Areas of Expertise' for the AGORA Portal, with a view to further expanding the range of subjects available on the Portal;
• Present AGORA at relevant events when required.

Expected deliverables:

• Develop the AGORA E-learning course on ‘Parliaments & Climate Change';
• Develop the AGORA pilot toolkit on ‘Parliaments & Climate Change';
• Draft three ‘areas of expertise' and the quarterly AGORA brief;
• Ensure that all indicators for the English Portal as outlined in the Workplan are met;
• Developed the quarterly Partner Update and additional communications as required;
• Draft concept notes, funding proposals and donor reports as required ;
• Develop AGORA promotional materials (providing funds are available).

Competencies

Core Values / Guiding Principles

Integrity

• Demonstrating consistency in upholding and promoting the values of UNDP in actions and decisions, in line with the UN Code of Conduct;
• Cultural Sensitivity/Valuing diversity;
• Demonstrating an appreciation of the multicultural nature of the organization and the diversity of its staff;
• Demonstrating an international outlook, appreciating differences in values and learning from cultural diversity.

Corporate Competencies

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN's values and ethical standards;
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP and the UN;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism.

Functional Competencies

Technical/Functional

• Substantive knowledge and understanding of parliamentary development as well as democratic governance more broadly;
• Sound understanding of climate change, renewable energy and energy efficiency, in particular with regards to parliamentary engagement and action;
• Ability to carry out research independently, to contribute to the formulation of policies, procedures and guidelines
• Proven experience drafting concept notes, funding proposals and donor reports;
• Solid IT skills: proficient use of MS Office required; experience using user-management platforms (Drupal, Joomla) is considered an asset.

Management and Leadership:

• Builds strong relationships with clients, focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to feedback;
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude;
• Demonstrates good oral and written communication skills;
• Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities;
• Leads teams effectively and shows mentoring as well as conflict resolution skills;
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills.

Knowledge Management and Learning

• Promotes knowledge management in UNDP and a learning environment in the office through leadership and personal example;
• Ability to conduct advocacy, and to support the development of programme communications strategies for sharing good practices and successful strategies;
• Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in on e or more practice areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Advanced University Degree (Masters) in Political Sciences, Law, International Relations or related field.

Experience:

• At least 4 years of experience in an international context, and on parliamentary development issues, within UNDP or with a partner organization of AGORA;
• Proven experience working on issues pertaining to parliaments and climate change, renewable energy and/or energy efficiency;
• Computer proficiency, including strong knowledge of MS Office products (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Front Page, Adobe In-Design; web-based management systems (Drupal, Joomla).

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in French and English. Other UN languages are considered an asset.

Application Submission Process:

Please submit the following to demonstrate your interest and qualifications:

Price proposal (All inclusive daily fee)

Interested individuals are kindly requested to submit an all-inclusive daily consultancy fee.

Personal CV and/or P11

Interested individuals must submit their applications online through UNDP Online Recruitment System. Correspondence (either in hard or soft format) will not be considered until the advance stage of the selection process. Applicants are encouraged to fill and sign a P11 Form and submit it on the online application, although regular CVs are also acceptable. The P11 Form can be obtained at http://sas.undp.org/Documents/P11_Personal_history_form.doc

Application Evaluation Process

Individual consultants will be evaluated based on the Cumulative Analysis methodology [weighted scoring method], where the award of the contract will be made to the individual consultant whose offer has been evaluated and determined as:

• Responsive/compliant/acceptable; and
• Having received the highest score out of a pre-determined set of technical and financial criteria specific to the solicitation.

Technical Criteria weight; [70%]

Financial Criteria weight; [30%]

The following criteria will be used in Technical Evaluation:

• Demonstrates proven achievements and substantive knowledge and understanding of parliamentary development as well as more broadly, inclusive participation;
• Proven computer proficiency;
• Fluent in English and French.

Only Individual Consultants obtaining a minimum of 70% of the obtainable points of 100 points in technical evaluation would be considered for the Financial Evaluation.

UNDP is applying fair and transparent selection process that would take into account both the technical qualification of Individual Consultants as well as their price proposals. The contract will be awarded to the candidate obtaining the highest combined technical and financial scores.

UNDP retains the right to contact references directly.

Due to large number of applications we receive, we are able to inform only the successful candidates about the outcome or status of the selection process.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

More Info and Application

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Job: Executive Associate

Location: Brussels, Belgium 
Deadline: Sunday, 13 October 2013 

Description

UNOPS mission is to expand the capacity of the UN system and its partners to implement peacebuilding, humanitarian and development operations that matter for people in need. Working in some of the world's most challenging environments, our vision is to always satisfy partners with management services that meet world-class standards of quality, speed and cost effectiveness.

UNOPS provides services in sustainable infrastructure, sustainable procurement and sustainable project management, with projects ranging from building schools, roads, bridges and hospitals to procuring goods and services and training local personnel.

By assisting UN organizations, international financial institutions, governments and other development partners, UNOPS makes significant, tangible contributions to results on the ground.

We employ more than 6,000 personnel annually and on behalf of our partners create thousands more work opportunities in local communities. Through our headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark and a network of regional and country offices, we oversee activities in more than 80 countries.

UNOPS is committed to achieving a truly diverse workforce.

Background Information -AEMO

Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, the Asia, Europe and Middle East Office (AEMO) supports UNOPS offices throughout the region, providing financial oversight of projects, procuring goods and services and managing human resources. AEMO helps ensure that projects are executed to the highest standards, providing a shared knowledge base and ensuring that best practices and lessons learned are disseminated between projects across the entire region.

Cities Alliance

The Cities Alliance is a global partnership for urban poverty reduction and the promotion of the role of cities in sustainable development. The global partnership provides grants for projects that develop national urban development policies, promote citizen engagement in urban governance and strengthen the capacity of cities to provide improved services to the urban poor. As a partnership, the Cities Alliance incorporates a diverse set of institutions in different roles, including local authorities, governments, non-governmental organizations and multilateral organizations including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the World Bank.

UNOPS has been selected as the administrator of the Programme, including serving as its Secretariat. The Cities Alliance Secretariat will be located in Brussels, Belgium.

The Executive Associate works in close collaboration with Cities Alliance Secretariat senior managers, staff, offices, and other CA and UNOPS corporate entites. Furthermore, the Executive Associate shall be the first point of contact within the Cities Alliance Secretariat for external clients, member state representatives, and any other external parties interacting with the Cities Alliance Director. The Executive Associate may be required to supervise other support staff in the Secretariat, as needs require.

Functional Responsibilities

1. Ensures effective and efficient functioning of the Cities Alliance Secretariat, focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Support to the Director in coordinating the internal governance set-up of the Cities Alliance;
• Management of the Cities Alliance Secretariat, ensuring an environment of professionalism and teamwork at all times, and setting exemplary standards of conduct for the office team;
• Coordination and organization of intra-departmental meetings of the Director and functioning as secretary for the meetings;
• Efficient and discreet management of the long-term calendar of appointments and commitments for the Director; maintenance of backup documentation and monthly update for discussion and decisions by the Director;
• Coordination with appropriate Offices, Divisions, staff, and external governing bodies on the participation of the Director at governing body meetings, preparation of agendas and supporting documentation for the Director;
• Focal point for the corporate initiatives, including Annual Meeting and bi-annual Executive Committee meetings, requested by the Director, up-date for the Director of all developments in such initiatives and monitoring of deadlines and results expected;
• Organization of special corporate events, such as luncheons, receptions for high-level invitees from missions, governments, UN agencies, governmental/non-governmental organizations and other partners;
• Adherence to appropriate protocol and correspondence guidelines by the office team when communicating with Government and other external partners;
• Support the development of effective systems and procedures to improve and streamline work and communication flow within the team, to meet high paced job demands and business requirements; and
• Use of technology and electronic systems and tools to initiate work, share information with colleagues and clients.

2. Ensures provision of effective communications and administrative support to the office focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Establishment/maintenance of all hard copy and electronic files, reference materials and confidential records as required, and evaluation of information for retention or disposal;
• Establishment of an effective network and exchange of information with internal partners and important business clients; coordination of the information flow in the office and dissemination of corporate and interoffice communication to staff as required;
• Follow up with senior managers and CA Field Staff, if applicable, on requests made by the Director; collection of reports and submission to the Director in the required format;
• Determination of work priorities, drafting of, reports, routine correspondence, interoffice circulars, general briefing notes, documents, and minutes of meetings, both internal and external (including Consultative Group meeting and Executive Committee meetings & minutes) when requested, translations when required;
• Preparation of spreadsheets, database files, presentation materials and tables ensuring appropriate style and accuracy of information;
• Management of the Director's missions and representation schedule, as well as related travel arrangements; preparation of high quality briefing materials for the Director for appointments, meetings, missions;
• Preparation of the office administrative budget plan for the submission to the Director; review and monitoring of expenditures against the administrative budget;
• Preparation of requests for recruitment of consultants for corporate requirements, including drafting/obtaining TORs, identification of consultants/firms, submission of requests to Procurement and ensuring appropriate settlement and follow-up thereof, in accordance with UNOPS guidelines;
• Set-up and monitoring of administrative procedures for the Secretariat Office to ensure a smooth flow of information and communication; recommendations to improve speed and efficiency and remove bottlenecks;
• Oversight, supervision, and coordination of the work of other support staff within Secretariat as designated by the Director;
• Screening of all incoming communications and outgoing correspondence for supervisor's signature, clearance and further action by other staff; wherever possible;
• Provision of all other related administrative, logistical, protocol and secretary services for Cities Alliance Secretariat; and
• Focal point for Secretariat's intranet, ensuring that this intranet space contains up-to-date information on activities.

3. Contributes to knowledge building and knowledge sharing, focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Organization of training for UNOPS staff on coordination, administration and protocol issues.
• Training of new or temporary support personnel on office methods, systems and procedures.
• Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.
• Providing logistical support for knowledge and learning events (eg, Brown Bag Lunches)

Education/Experience/Language requirements

• First degree or equivalent preferably in business administration and/or other related areas. Diploma studies in related field with extensive experience in similar responsible positions and functions an asset.
• 5 years of progressively responsible secretarial, administrative, programme experience is required at the national or international level in association.
• Experience in dealing with senior officials, diplomats and the public is essential.
• Experience in UNOPS/UNDP or other UN common system agencies in the fields of finance, accounting, human resources, audit, administrative services or in other related fields highly desirable.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Office 2003 and/or newer versions), experience in handling of web-based management systems.
• Fluency in written and oral English and French required. Knowledge of another UN working language, eg Spanish or Arabic, desirable.

Competencies

UNOPS Core Values/Competencies

• Integrity
• Professionalism
• Respect for Diversity
• Creativity and innovation
• Commitment to continuous Learning
• Accountability
• Planning and Organizing
• Results orientation
• Communications skills
• Teamwork skills
• Client orientation
• Technological awareness

Functional Competencies

Knowledge Management and Learning

• Shares knowledge and experience
• Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more practice areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills

Development and Operational Effectiveness

• Ability to perform a broad range of activities aimed at effective and efficient functioning of Director's office, including data/ schedule management, maintenance of protocol, information flow.
• Displays initiative, tact, and confidentiality
• Diligence, attention to critical details
• Keen sense of work priorities and resourcefulness in obtaining, researching, and coordinating the flow of important information
• Ability to supervise and train support staff
• Ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor own work plan and those under his/her supervision.
• Solid knowledge of administrative rules and regulations
• Solid computer skills including proficiency in Excel. Knowledge of other software applications (such as databases) and PeopleSoft ATLAS desirable.
• Ability to provide input to business processes re-engineering, implementation of new systems

Leadership and Self-Management

• Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
• Ability to work under time/work pressure independently and in a team environment;
• Remains calm, in control and good humoured even under pressure

Contract type, level and duration

Contract type: Local ICA

Contract level: Local ICA 6

Contract duration: one year, renewable subject to available funds and satisfactory performance For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: http://www.unops.org/ENGLISH/WHOWENEED/CONTRACT-TYPES/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements-ICAs.aspx

Additional Considerations

• Please note that the closing date is midnight Copenhagen time (CET)
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified.
• Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• For staff positions UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post
• The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.

It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential recruits/interns. Recruitment/internship in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

More Info and Application

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Job: Strategic Initiatives Director

Location: Brussels 
Deadline: Monday, 02 December 2013 

Description

Strategic Initiatives Director

Tracking Code 213677-025 Job Description

ICANN has an exciting new opportunity for a Strategic Initiatives Director in our Strategic Initiatives Department. The successful candidate will report to the Vice President, Strategic Initiatives and Advisor to the CEO.

Position Summary:

Performs global strategy development, managerial, analytical, research and communication related duties and carries out responsibilities in the following areas (including, but not limited to): supporting and advising the ICANN Board, CEO and Staff strategic initiatives; managing strategic projects and programs; and coordinating and supporting ICANN staff, community and Board working groups and committees with policy, operational and strategy advice and research.

This position includes responsibility for managing consultants who support the Strategic Initiatives Department to achieve organizational objectives.

• Key Responsibilities:

• Support Strategic Initiatives Department activities by providing advice on, and researching and drafting papers on, strategy and policy matters to support the development and implementation of policies, strategies and plans.

• Understand Internet law and DNS issues and how they apply to ICANN's mission and purpose.

• Work constructively with ICANN community leaders of diverse backgrounds, cultures and skill sets to enhance the quality and effectiveness of ICANN operations, policies and strategies.

• Oversee the development of, and review the work products of, staff and community groups to help ensure that they are accurate, comprehensive and clearly expressed.

• Provide guidance, direction and advice to relevant staff on how to address complex, controversial matters and sensitive situations involving conflicts and disagreements among community representatives.

• Foster greater global understanding and awareness of ICANN mission to preserve the security, stability and interoperability of the Internet through use of the Internet, face-to-face communication, education and outreach programs.

• Negotiate and manage outsourcing arrangements with third parties to assist with the advancement of ICANN's strategic initiatives.

• Other duties as assigned or requested.

Essential Job Functions:

• Manage and administer complex public policy processes and strategic projects.

• Research, write and edit reports and position papers and produce informational materials.

• Develop and manage work plans and communication plans.

• Develop and edit public material and oversee creation of webpages and other online communication mechanisms.

• Manage consultants and coordinate and guide cross-functional staff teams to meet completion dates in accordance with established schedules.

• Develop community and public outreach plans; coordinate and facilitate in-person, telephonic and web-based community meetings and deliberations on complex political and policy issues.

• Represent the organization in international forums.

• Make public presentations to community gatherings.

• Provide written and verbal executive briefings to Board of Directors, CEO and senior management.

Required Skills

• University degree required, J.D. preferred.

• Proven ability to prepare detailed reports, presentations and speeches to internal and external audiences on complex issues of significant industry importance.

• Ability to work with a diverse workforce and community, in a highly visible environment where every word is recorded and shared with the community.

• Ability to work productively and effectively with other internal department leaders.

• Advocate for department in internal strategic discussions. Stand-in and represent positions of VP Strategic Initiatives when necessary.

• Commitment to organizational principles of accountability and transparent work environment.

• Highly tuned political, diplomatic and social skills.

• Proven ability to meet tight deadlines in fast-paced stressful and high-pressure environment.

• Proven ability to quickly study and understand political, societal, legal and business implications of complex DNS issues.

• Proven ability to work independently and with diverse team.

• Must have excellent communication skills including written and verbal fluency in English with multi-lingual skills preferred.

• Comfort level with 24-7 work environment and occasional regional and international travel.

• Strong computer skills including MS Office, wiki, Adobe Connect and other collaboration tools.

Required Experience

• Minimum 10 years related experience with national or international policy work.

• Minimum 5 years expertise with respect Internet and Domain Name System policy framework and operations

• Demonstrated success in a managerial role, including managing consultants and contractors.

Job Location Brussels, , Belgium Position Type Full-Time/Regular

More Info and Application

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Job: Head of Office

Location: Brussels 
Deadline: Friday, 04 October 2013 

Description

Job Title

Head of Office, P5

Department/ Office

United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction Secretariat

Duty Station

BRUSSELS

Posting Period

4 September 2013-4 October 2013

Job Opening number

13-PGM-UNISDR-29177-R-BRUSSELS (X)

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Organizational Setting and Reporting

Created in December 1999, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) is the designated focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of disaster reduction and to ensure synergies among the disaster reduction activities of the United Nations and regional organizations and activities in socio-economic and humanitarian fields. Led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, UNISDR has over 100 staff located in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and 5 regional offices and other field presences. Specifically, UNISDR coordinates international efforts in disaster risk reduction, and guides, monitors and reports on the progress of the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action; campaigns to create global awareness of disaster risk reduction benefits and empower people to reduce their vulnerability to hazards; advocates for greater investments in disaster risk reduction to protect people's lives and assets, and for increased and informed participation of men and women in reducing disaster risk; and informs and connects people by providing practical services and tools such as PreventionWeb, publications on good practices, and by leading the preparation of the Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction and the organisation of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.

This position is located in the UNISDR Liaison Office in Brussels and the incumbent reports to the Director.

Responsibilities

Provides policy guidance to the Director, on conceptual strategy development and management of the implementation of the UNISDR strategic framework and work programme at the regional office level. In line with the UNISDR strategic framework and biennial work programme, build partnerships for broad and focused cooperation towards reducing vulnerability to disasters in the region of Europe.

Plans and oversees the management of activities of the regional office; ensures that substantive work programmes and programmed activities are carried out in a timely fashion, coordinating diverse projects in the region in liaison with other organizations of the United Nations System, disaster risk reduction partners, governments, donors and agencies as appropriate.

Manages, supervises and carries out the UNISDR work programme of the regional office under his/her responsibility. Oversees and monitors the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) following up with governments and other disaster risk reduction partners; Leads and participates in the Hyogo Framework for Action consultations; develops mechanisms to allow for full participation of partners at the regional level; ensures that information from consultative forums is recorded and disseminated to relevant constituents; co-ordinates the work carried out by the regional office; provides programmatic and substantive reviews of drafts prepared by others.

Provides substantive input in the preparation of position papers and reports for presentation to intergovernmental bodies such as the Economic and Social Council, the General Assembly and other policy-making organs as appropriate.

Contributes to the resilient cities campaign in the region, advocates for and supports the campaign through regional counterparts and partnerships, as applicable.

Ensures that the outputs produced by the regional office maintain high-quality standards; that reports are clear, objective and based on comprehensive data. Ensures that all outputs produced by the regional office under his/her supervision meet required standards before completion to ensure they comply with the relevant mandates.

Prepares inputs for the work programme of the regional office, determining priorities, and allocating resources for the completion of outputs and their timely delivery. Enhances coordination and collaboration among stake holders in addressing disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation (CCA)

Is accountable for the programmatic and administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the regional office, including preparation of budgets, assigning and monitoring of performance parameters and critical indicators, reporting on budget/programme performance, preparation of inputs for results-based budgeting, evaluation of staff performance (PAS), interviews of candidates for job openings and evaluation of candidates; interaction with service provides for service efficiency.

Recommends the recruitment of staff for the regional office taking due account geographical and gender balance and other institutional values.

Manages, guides, develops and trains staff under his/her supervision.

Fosters teamwork and communication among staff in the regional office and across organizational boundaries.

Serves as the representative of UNISDR at events and meetings organized by the European Union, the Belgium Government, the UN Country Team and other forums in Brussels; in consultation with the Resource Mobilization Unit guides and oversee the work of the UNISDR designated European focal point.

Participates, guides and oversees the preparation of regional platforms every two years; liaises with governments and other partners to ensure that regional platforms are addressing disaster risk reduction issuesl; ensures that reports from the regional platforms are disseminated to the relevant parties for follow-up and keeps track of commitments made at the platforms for development of relevant monitoring and evaluation mechanism.

Competencies

Professionalism:

• Knowledge and understanding of concepts and approaches relevant to disaster risk reduction.
• Demonstrated ability to provide innovative technical leadership by performing and/or overseeing the planning, development, and management of the operation.
• Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results.
• Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges. Accountability:
• Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments
• Delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards
• Operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules
• Supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments
• Takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable. Client Orientation:
• Considers all those to whom services are provided to be "clients " and seeks to see things from clients' point of view
• Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect
• Identifies clients' needs and matches them to appropriate solutions
• Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients' environment to keep informed and anticipate problems
• Keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects
• Meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client Vision:
• Identifies strategic issues, opportunities and risks.
• Clearly communicates links between the Organization's strategy and the work unit's goals.
• Generates and communicates broad and compelling organizational direction, inspiring others to pursue that same direction
• Conveys enthusiasm about future possibilities Managing Performance:
• Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision-making authority
• Makes sure that roles, responsibilities and reporting lines are clear to each staff member
• Accurately judges the amount of time and resources needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills
• Monitors progress against milestones and deadlines
• Regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff
• Encourages risk-taking and supports creativity and initiative
• Actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff
• Appraises performance fairly

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international relations, management, economics, social sciences or related area. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, public administration or related field. Knowledge of disaster risk reduction is a requirement. Qualifying years of experience are calculated following the receipt of the first level university degree recognised by the United Nations.

Languages

Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required; knowledge of French is desirable.

Assessment Method

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.

Special Notice

-Extension of the appointment is subject to the availability of the funds.

• Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfill the lateral move requirements to be eligible to apply for this vacancy. Staff members are requested to indicate all qualifying lateral moves in their Personal History Profile (PHP) and cover note.

United Nations Considerations

The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations - Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS' BANK ACCOUNTS.

More Info and Application

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