Job: Disaster Risk Management Specialist

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Closing Date: Tuesday, 03 December 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. The GFDRR is organized along three tracks of operation to achieve its development objectives at the global, regional and country levels. Track I focuses on enhanced global and regional advocacy, partnerships, and standardization of disaster risk management tools and methodologies. Track II provides technical assistance for targeted countries to mainstream disaster risk reduction in strategic planning and development policies focusing on poverty reduction strategies. Track III provides rapid and predictable disaster recovery assistance through the Standby Recovery Financing Facility (SRFF).

A Single Donor Trust Fund (SDTF) within GFDRR will be established to support the implementation of the Japan-World Bank program for mainstreaming disaster risk management (DRM) in selected developing countries. The Program will be managed by the GFDRR Secretariat and operationalized by the World Bank's Regions, primarily through non-lending operations for analytical and advisory, technical assistance and capacity building activities. It will be implemented in seven years and will receive a financial contribution of US$100 million from the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Japan over 5 years (FYs 14-18). GFDRR Secretariat will establish a DRM Hub in Tokyo that will support the implementation of technical assistance, capacity building and knowledge mobilization activities of the initiative. The Hub will be housed within the World Bank Group External and Corporate Relations, Japan (ECRJP) in Tokyo. The Program will fund technical assistance, pilot projects, and special thematic initiatives along four of the five pillars of the DRM framework described in the Sendai Report - focusing on the ex-ante side of DRM. In addition the initiative will also strive to connect Japanese and global expertise in DRM with developing countries, and to scale up their best practices worldwide.

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

General :

GFDRR is seeking a Disaster Risk Management Specialist who will contribute to and support the overall implementation of the Japan-Bank DRM Mainstreaming Program, under the supervision and guidance of the Senior DRM Specialist, Tokyo Hub, GFDRR Secretariat, the Special Representative, ECRJP, and under the managerial control of the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, working in close coordination with the Track Team Leaders of GFDRR, Regional Coordinators for disaster risk management in the World Bank regions, World Bank Institute and other relevant units of the World Bank.

Specific Duties:

• Support the development and screening of project proposals from country task teams and improve project designs with team inputs and inputs from the centers of excellence in Japan and the regions, maintaining the business standards and timelines stipulated for the program.
• Support the building and maintaining of a network of centers of excellence in DRM in Japan and the region in order to tap the good practices from the region for effective mainstreaming of DRM in eligible countries under the Program.
• Support in the liaison and connection of regional and Japanese centers of excellence in DRM with task teams during project design, development, and implementation.
• Support Special Representative, Japan in his role as representative of the Hub in Japan in its institutional relationships with the various stakeholders ranging from the government, private sector, civil society, and academia among others.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building activities under the Program in cooperation with World Bank Institute and other relevant units.
• Coordinate with the World Bank teams, and support the monitoring and supervision during project implementation
• Support the planning, design, execution, monitoring and evaluation of various activities under the program in close coordination with the World Bank regions and task teams; support the design and implementation of knowledge products, exchange, outreach and communication activities approved under the Program.
• Assist in maintaining effective professional relationships with key stakeholders including civil society, academia, private sector, government agencies and other relevant entities in close coordination with the ECRJP.
• Support the preparation of progress reports and briefings. Communicate developments both internally and externally to relevant stakeholders, represent GFDRR, as required, on the Japan-World Bank Program and GFDRR in general.
• Provide inputs to and work with GFDRR's communication team as well as ECRJP for promoting activities and the DRM agenda through the traditional and social media.
• Perform other duties and functions as assigned by the Special Representative, Japan and the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, including, if needed, deployment for cross support to Country teams.

Selection Criteria:

Competencies:

• DRM Policy, Strategy and Institutions - Solid subject matter and operational knowledge of the ex-ante disaster risk management initiatives on risk identification, risk reduction, preparedness and financial protection. Understands the institutional and governance issues related to DRM. Knows how to engage with institutions and how to assess their capacity.
• 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 - Analyze facts and data to support sound, logical decisions regarding own and others' work in the team.
• Relationship Management and Partnership Development - significant experience or demonstrated proficiency to manage relationships with various constituencies to foster strategic partnerships to strengthen the overall effectiveness of GFDRR in general and the Japan program in particular.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Selection Criteria:

• Master's degree in Disaster Management, Public Policy/Administration, International Development, Social Science or related field and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English.
• Excellent computer skills, proficiency in use of standard Bank technology packages.
• Experience of working in an international or national development institution on the relevant issues is an advantage.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of World Bank operations and policies.
• Field experience in developing countries is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast track environment, with efficiency, competence and integrity with people of different cultural background.
• Ability to perform efficiently and effectively in highly demanding working environments and meet very tight deadlines.
• Professional endurance and commitment to pursue and complete complex assignments.
• Good team player but also capable of operating independently when required
• Strong ability to analyze and resolve cross cutting issues covering different areas of specialization, with an understanding of how solutions affect the overall work program.
• Sensitivity to working in multi-cultural and matrix environments.
• Ability to build effective working relations with clients and colleagues, as team member, and to achieve results.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of practical project implementation issues.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

The World Bank Group is committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture and educational background. Individuals with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

More Info and Application

[read more..]

Job: Operations Officer

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Closing Date: Tuesday, 03 December 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. The GFDRR is organized along three tracks of operation to achieve its development objectives at the global, regional and country levels. Track I focuses on enhanced global and regional advocacy, partnerships, and standardization of disaster risk management tools and methodologies. Track II provides technical assistance for targeted countries to mainstream disaster risk reduction in strategic planning and development policies focusing on poverty reduction strategies. Track III provides rapid and predictable disaster recovery assistance through the Standby Recovery Financing Facility (SRFF).

A Single Donor Trust Fund (SDTF) within GFDRR will be established to support the implementation of the Japan-World Bank program for mainstreaming disaster risk management (DRM) in selected developing countries. The Program will be managed by the GFDRR Secretariat and operationalized by the World Bank's Regions, primarily through non-lending operations for analytical and advisory, technical assistance and capacity building activities. It will be implemented in seven years and will receive a financial contribution of US$100 million from the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Japan over 5 years (FYs 14-18). GFDRR Secretariat will establish a DRM Hub in Tokyo that will support the implementation of technical assistance, capacity building and knowledge mobilization activities of the initiative. The Hub will be housed within the World Bank Group External and Corporate Relations, Japan (ECRJP) in Tokyo. The Program will fund technical assistance, pilot projects, and special thematic initiatives along four of the five pillars of the DRM framework described in the Sendai Report - focusing on the ex-ante side of DRM. In addition the initiative will also strive to connect Japanese and global expertise in DRM with developing countries, and to scale up their best practices worldwide.

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

General :

GFDRR is seeking an Operations Officer who will contribute to and support the overall implementation of the Japan-Bank DRM Mainstreaming Program, under the supervision and guidance of the Senior Operations Officer, Tokyo Hub, GFDRR Secretariat, the Special Representative, ECRJP, and under the managerial control of the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, working in close coordination with the Track Team Leaders of GFDRR, Regional Coordinators for disaster risk management in the World Bank regions, World Bank Institute and other relevant units of the World Bank.

Specific Duties:

1. Support the building and maintaining of a network of centers of excellence in DRM in Japan and the regions in order to tap the good practices from the region for effective mainstreaming of DRM in eligible countries under the Program.

2. Contribute to the liaison and connection of regional and Japanese centers of excellence in DRM with task teams during project design, development, and implementation.

3. Support the knowledge exchange and capacity building activities under the Program in cooperation with World Bank Institute and other relevant units; support the design and implementation of knowledge products, exchange, outreach and communication activities approved under the Program.

4. Coordinate with the World Bank teams, and support the monitoring and supervision during project implementation.

5. Support Special Representative, Japan in his role as representative of the Hub in Japan in its institutional relationships with the various stakeholders ranging from the government, private sector, civil society, and academia among others.

6. Assist in the liaison with MoF on behalf of GFDRR Secretariat under the supervision and guidance of the Special Representative, Japan on matters relating to the implementation of the Program and ensure coordination with relevant Japanese agencies including JICA both at headquarters and on the ground.

7. Support the Tokyo Hub function of coordination between World Bank task teams and JICA, and other development partners present in country to avoid duplication and maximize synergies.

8. Support the planning, design, execution, monitoring and evaluation of various activities under the program in close coordination with the World Bank regions and task teams.

9. Support building of effective professional relationships with key stakeholders including civil society, academia, private sector, government agencies and other relevant entities in close coordination with the ECRJP.

10. Prepare progress reports and briefings. Communicate developments both internally and externally to relevant stakeholders, represent GFDRR, as required, on the joint Japan-World Bank Program and GFDRR in general.

11. Provide inputs to and work with GFDRR's communication team as well as ECRJP for promoting activities and the DRM agenda through the traditional and social media in Japanese and non-Japanese languages.

12. Perform other duties and functions as assigned by the Special Representative, Japan and the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, including, if needed, deployment for cross support to Country teams.

Selection Criteria:

Competencies:

1. Knowledge and Experience in Development Arena - Understands policy making process; distills operationally relevant recommendations/lessons for clients.

2. Policy Dialogue Skills - Identifies and assesses policy issues and plays an active role in the dialogue with the government and/or other stakeholders.

3. Integrative Skills - Working to develop an integrated view across all facets of current sector.

4. 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.

5. Drive for Results - Takes personal ownership and accountability to meet deadlines and achieve agreed-upon results, and has the personal organization to do so.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. Business Judgment and Analytical Decision Making - Analyze facts and data to support sound, logical decisions regarding own and others' work in the team.

9. Relationship Management and Partnership Development - significant experience or demonstrated proficiency to manage relationships with various constituencies to foster strategic partnerships to strengthen the overall effectiveness of GFDRR in general and the Japan program in particular.

10. Willingness to travel as required.

Selection Criteria:

• Master's degree in Disaster Management, Public Policy/Administration, International Development, Social Science or related field and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English and Japanese.
• Excellent computer skills, proficiency in use of standard Bank technology packages.
• Experience of working in an international or national development institution on the relevant issues is an advantage.
• Field experience in developing countries is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast track environment, with efficiency, competence and integrity with people of different cultural background.
• Ability to perform efficiently and effectively in highly demanding working environments and meet very tight deadlines.
• Professional endurance and commitment to pursue and complete complex assignments.
• Good team player but also capable of operating independently when required
• Strong ability to analyze and resolve cross cutting issues covering different areas of specialization, with an understanding of how solutions affect the overall work program.
• Sensitivity to working in multi-cultural and matrix environments.
• Ability to build effective working relations with clients and colleagues, as team member, and to achieve results.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of practical project implementation issues.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

The World Bank Group is committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture and educational background. Individuals with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

More Info and Application

[read more..]

Job: Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Closing Date: Tuesday, 03 December 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. The GFDRR is organized along three tracks of operation to achieve its development objectives at the global, regional and country levels. Track I focuses on enhanced global and regional advocacy, partnerships, and standardization of disaster risk management tools and methodologies. Track II provides technical assistance for targeted countries to mainstream disaster risk reduction in strategic planning and development policies focusing on poverty reduction strategies. Track III provides rapid and predictable disaster recovery assistance through the Standby Recovery Financing Facility (SRFF).

A Single Donor Trust Fund (SDTF) within GFDRR will be established to support the implementation of the Japan-World Bank program for mainstreaming disaster risk management (DRM) in selected developing countries. The Program will be managed by the GFDRR Secretariat and operationalized by the World Bank's Regions, primarily through non-lending operations for analytical and advisory, technical assistance and capacity building activities. It will be implemented in seven years and will receive a financial contribution of US$100 million from the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Japan over 5 years (FYs 14-18). GFDRR Secretariat will establish a DRM Hub in Tokyo that will support the implementation of technical assistance, capacity building and knowledge mobilization activities of the initiative. The Hub will be housed within the World Bank Group External and Corporate Relations, Japan (ECRJP) in Tokyo. The Program will fund technical assistance, pilot projects, and special thematic initiatives along four of the five pillars of the DRM framework described in the Sendai Report - focusing on the ex-ante side of DRM. In addition the initiative will also strive to connect Japanese and global expertise in DRM with developing countries, and to scale up their best practices worldwide.

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

General:

GFDRR is seeking a Senior Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist who will contribute to and coordinate subject matter technical support for the overall implementation of the Japan-Bank DRM Mainstreaming Program, under the supervision and guidance of the Special Representative, ECRJP, and under the managerial control of the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, working in close coordination with the Track Team Leaders of GFDRR, Regional Coordinators for disaster risk management in the World Bank regions, World Bank Institute and other relevant units of the World Bank.

Specific Duties :

1. Lead the development and screening of project proposals from country task teams and improve project designs with team inputs and inputs from the centers of excellence in Japan and the regions, maintaining the business standards and timelines stipulated for the program.

2.Build and maintain a network of centers of excellence in DRM in Japan and the regions in order to tap the good practices from the region for effective mainstreaming of DRM in eligible countries under the Program.

3.Liaise with and connect regional and Japanese centers of excellence in DRM with task teams during project design, development, and implementation.

4.Facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building activities under the Program in cooperation with World Bank Institute and other relevant units; design and implement knowledge products, exchange, outreach and communication activities approved under the Program.

5.Coordinate with the World Bank teams, and support the monitoring and supervision during project implementation

6.Support Special Representative, Japan in his role as representative of the Hub in Japan in its institutional relationships with the various stakeholders ranging from the government, private sector, civil society, and academia among others.

7.Show leadership and innovation in planning, design, execution, monitoring and evaluation of various activities under the program in close coordination with the World Bank regions and task teams.

8.Initiate and sustain effective professional relationships with key stakeholders including civil society, academia, private sector, government agencies and other relevant entities in close coordination with the ECRJP.

9.Prepare progress reports and briefings. Communicate developments both internally and externally to relevant stakeholders, represent GFDRR, as required, on the joint Japan-World Bank Program and GFDRR in general.

10. Provide inputs to and work with GFDRR's communication team as well as ECRJP for promoting activities and the DRM agenda through the traditional and social media.

11. Perform other duties and functions as assigned by the Special Representative, Japan and the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, including, if needed, deployment for cross support to Country teams.

Selection Criteria:

Competencies:

1. DRM Policy, Strategy and Institutions - Solid subject matter and operational knowledge of the ex-ante disaster risk management initiatives on risk identification, risk reduction, preparedness and financial protection. Understands the institutional and governance issues related to DRM. Knows how to engage with institutions and how to assess their capacity.

2. Client Orientation - Maintains client relationships in the face of conflicting demands or directions and provides evidence-based advice and solutions based on sound diagnosis and knowledge.

3. Drive for Results - Identifies the needed resources to accomplish results involving multiple stakeholders and finds solutions to obstacles affecting key deliverables.

4. Teamwork (Collaboration) and Inclusion - Shows leadership in ensuring the team stays organized and focused, and actively seeks and considers diverse ideas and approaches.

5. Knowledge, Learning and Communication - Leads in the sharing of best practice, trends, knowledge and lessons learned across units and with clients and partners, articulating ideas verbally and in writing in a clear and compelling way across audiences of varied levels.

6. Business Judgment and Analytical Decision Making - Gathers inputs, assesses risk, considers impact and articulates benefits of decisions for internal and external stakeholders over the long term.

7. Significant experience and proficiency manage relationships with various constituencies to foster strategic partnerships to strengthen the overall effectiveness of GFDRR in general and the Japan program in particular.

8. Willingness to travel as required.

Selection Criteria:

• Master's degree in Disaster Risk Management, Public Policy/Administration, International Development, Social Science or related field and a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of World Bank operations and policies.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in use of standard Bank technology packages.
• Experience of working in an international or national development institution on the relevant issues is an advantage.
• Field experience in developing countries is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast track environment, with efficiency, competence and integrity with people of different cultural background.
• Ability to perform in demanding working environments and meet tight deadlines.
• Professional endurance and commitment to pursue and complete complex assignments.
• Good team player but also capable of operating independently when required
• Strong ability to analyze and resolve cross cutting issues covering different areas of specialization, with an understanding of how solutions affect the overall work program.
• Sensitivity to working in multi-cultural and matrix environments.
• Ability to build effective working relations with clients and colleagues, as team member, and to achieve results.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of practical project implementation issues.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to train, coach and mentor junior staff.

The World Bank Group is committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture and educational background. Individuals with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

More Info and Application

[read more..]

Job: Senior Operations Officer

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Closing Date: Tuesday, 03 December 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.

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. The GFDRR is organized along three tracks of operation to achieve its development objectives at the global, regional and country levels. Track I focuses on enhanced global and regional advocacy, partnerships, and standardization of disaster risk management tools and methodologies. Track II provides technical assistance for targeted countries to mainstream disaster risk reduction in strategic planning and development policies focusing on poverty reduction strategies. Track III provides rapid and predictable disaster recovery assistance through the Standby Recovery Financing Facility (SRFF).

A Single Donor Trust Fund (SDTF) within GFDRR will be established to support the implementation of the Japan-World Bank program for mainstreaming disaster risk management (DRM) in selected developing countries. The Program will be managed by the GFDRR Secretariat and operationalized by the World Bank's Regions, primarily through non-lending operations for analytical and advisory, technical assistance and capacity building activities. It will be implemented in seven years and will receive a financial contribution of US$100 million from the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Japan over 5 years (FYs 14-18). GFDRR Secretariat will establish a DRM Hub in Tokyo that will support the implementation of technical assistance, capacity building and knowledge mobilization activities of the initiative. The Hub will be housed within the World Bank Group External and Corporate Relations, Japan (ECRJP) in Tokyo. The Program will fund technical assistance, pilot projects, and special thematic initiatives along four of the five pillars of the DRM framework described in the Sendai Report - focusing on the ex-ante side of DRM. In addition the initiative will also strive to connect Japanese and global expertise in DRM with developing countries, and to scale up their best practices worldwide.

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

General:

GFDRR is seeking a Senior Operations Officer who will contribute to and support the overall implementation of the Japan-Bank DRM Mainstreaming Program, under the supervision and guidance of the Special Representative, ECRJP, and under the managerial control of the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, working in close coordination with the Track Team Leaders of GFDRR, Regional Coordinators for disaster risk management in the World Bank regions, World Bank Institute and other relevant units of the World Bank.

Specific Duties :

1. Build and maintain a network of centers of excellence in DRM in Japan and the regions in order to tap the good practices from the region for effective mainstreaming of DRM in eligible countries under the Program.

2. Liaise with and connect regional and Japanese centers of excellence in DRM with task teams during project design, development, and implementation.

3. Facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building activities under the Program in cooperation with World Bank Institute and other relevant units; design and implement knowledge products, exchange, outreach and communication activities approved under the Program.

4. Coordinate with the World Bank teams, and support the monitoring and supervision during project implementation.

5. Support Special Representative, Japan in his role as representative of the Hub in Japan in its institutional relationships with the various stakeholders ranging from the government, private sector, civil society, and academia among others.

6. Liaise with MoF on behalf of GFDRR Secretariat under the supervision and guidance of the Special Representative, Japan on matters relating to the implementation of the Program and ensure coordination with relevant Japanese agencies including JICA both at headquarters and on the ground.

7. Manage engagement between World Bank task teams and JICA, and other development partners present in country to avoid duplication and maximize synergies.

8. Lead in providing inputs for the planning, design, execution, monitoring and evaluation of various activities under the program in close coordination with the World Bank regions and task teams.

9. Initiate and sustain effective professional relationships with key stakeholders including civil society, academia, private sector, government agencies and other relevant entities in close coordination with the ECRJP.

10. Prepare progress reports and briefings. Communicate developments both internally and externally to relevant stakeholders, represent GFDRR, as required, on the joint Japan-World Bank Program and GFDRR in general.

11. Provide inputs to and work with GFDRR's communication team as well as ECRJP for promoting activities and the DRM agenda through the traditional and social media in Japanese and non-Japanese languages.

12. Perform other duties and functions as assigned by the Special Representative, Japan and the Head of the GFDRR Secretariat, including, if needed, deployment for cross support to Country teams.

Selection Criteria:

Competencies:

1. Knowledge and Experience in Development Arena - Translates technical and cross-country knowledge into practical applications and contributions to country and sector strategies; interacts with clients at the policy level.

2. Policy Dialogue Skills - Anticipates needs and requests in the field and conducts independent policy discussions with representatives of the government and non-government partners.

3.Integrative Skills - Understands relevant cross-sectoral areas how they are interrelated; able to undertake cross-sectoral work in lending and non-lending operations.

4.Client Orientation - Maintains client relationships in the face of conflicting demands or directions and provides evidence-based advice and solutions based on sound diagnosis and knowledge.

5.Drive for Results - Identifies the needed resources to accomplish results involving multiple stakeholders and finds solutions to obstacles affecting key deliverables.

6.Teamwork (Collaboration) and Inclusion - Shows leadership in ensuring the team stays organized and focused, and actively seeks and considers diverse ideas and approaches.

7.Knowledge, Learning and Communication - Leads in the sharing of best practice, trends, knowledge and lessons learned across units and with clients and partners, articulating ideas verbally and in writing in a clear and compelling way across audiences of varied levels.

8.Business Judgment and Analytical Decision Making - Gathers inputs, assesses risk, considers impact and articulates benefits of decisions for internal and external stakeholders over the long term.

9.Relationship Management and Partnership Development - significant experience or demonstrated proficiency to lead and manage relationships with various constituencies to foster strategic partnerships to strengthen the overall effectiveness of GFDRR in general and the Japan program in particular.

10.Willingness to travel as required.

Selection Criteria:

• Master's degree in Disaster Management, Public Policy/Administration, International Development, Social Science or related field and a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English and Japanese.
• Excellent computer skills, proficiency in use of standard Bank technology packages.
• Experience of working in an international or national development institution on the relevant issues is an advantage.
• Field experience in developing countries is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast track environment, with efficiency, competence and integrity with people of different cultural background.
• Ability to perform efficiently and effectively in highly demanding working environments and meet very tight deadlines.
• Professional endurance and commitment to pursue and complete complex assignments.
• Good team player but also capable of operating independently when required
• Strong ability to analyze and resolve cross cutting issues covering different areas of specialization, with an understanding of how solutions affect the overall work program.
• Sensitivity to working in multi-cultural and matrix environments.
• Ability to build effective working relations with clients and colleagues, as team member, and to achieve results.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of practical project implementation issues.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coach, train and mentor junior staff.

The World Bank Group is committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture and educational background. Individuals with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

More Info and Application

[read more..]

Job: ASSISTANT (TEAM) (HQ/13/HQ/FT457)

24 October 2013

The mission of WHO is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health.

Vacancy Notice No: HQ/13/HQ/FT457

Title: Assistant (Team)

Grade: G5

Contract type: Fixed-Term Appointment

Duration of contract: One Year

Date: 24 October 2013

Application Deadline: 14 November 2013

Duty Station: Kobe, Japan

Organization unit: HQ Headquarters (HQ), HQ/IER Information, Evidence and Research (HQ/IER)

HQ/WKC WHO Centre for Health Development (Kobe, Japan)

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME :

The WHO Centre for HealthDevelopment (WHO Kobe Centre or WKC) is a global centre for

excellence conducting research on health in development with a focus on how social, economic, environmental and technological determinants impact on health, particularly in the urban setting. WKC's research programme is largely focused on urbanization and health equity. WHO is taking a lead role in calling for partnership to raise awareness of the health impacts associated with urbanization in order to invoke actions from countries to reduce health in equities in urban settings. The Centre contributes to the creation, synthesis and uptake of global knowledge and policy/programme option development for redressing health inequities in urban settings, multisectoral action for health, ageing, innovation and health, and emergency preparedness. WKC works in collaboration with researchers, academics, practitioners and other stakeholders who are committed to translating knowledge into action, policy and practice. Whereas WKC is a global centre, it also acts as an important reference and provider of information to local and national decision makers and public.

Description of duties:

• Ensure the smooth flow of work related to secretarial and administrative activities, coordinating actions with other support staff assigned to the team;
• Follow-up and ensure that deadlines are met, reminding colleagues of such, that correspondence and queries are responded to in a timely manner;
• Verify that outgoing correspondence is presented in accordance with WHO style and checking language, grammar and accuracy prior to submitting for signature and clearance; to ensure
• that technical reports and documents are in line with WHO standards, rules, practices andprocedures, redrafting, editing and correcting them as necessary prior to their submission for the
• signature or clearance;
• Perform secretarial duties, including administrative follow-up on travel arrangements of office staff;
• Draft general or administrative correspondence on own initiative or on the basis of instructions. Finalize correspondence / reports for signature / clearance;
• Preparecontracts and agreements, monitoring their completion and payment, liaising with administration and Office of the Director, as appropriate;
• Analyze incoming correspondence and requests in the light of background material, instructions, policies and precedents, researching, obtaining and attaching background information in support of the responsible officer's needs, or redirecting them as appropriate;
• Follow-up on financial and budgetary issues concerning the team, including accuracy and availability of budget information and ensure that payments procedures are initiated within time-limits; 9. Use WHO management systems to verify that documents concerning budget matters are correct, ensuring that expenditure requests are valid and funds available;
• Request information from staff in the Centre, HQ, regional and country offices, programmes, agencies and institutions to facilitate action by the responsible officers concerned;
• In collaboration with othersupport staff, maintain the team filing system, updating/purging files in a timely manner, ensuring that all technical documents are available, and controlling access to confidential documents;
• Prepare presentations using appropriate software packages on own initiative or on the basis of instructions;
• Organize meetings, workshops, seminars, and similar activities; including drafting agendas, list of participants, letters of invitation, ensure that briefing and participants' files are properly established, prepare necessary documents for security and visa issuance, ensure arrangement for meeting logistics and travels, provide secretarial support and assistance to meeting participants, etc;
• Take notes and prepare minutes for meetings as required;
• Screen and receive telephone calls / visitors with tact, discretion, making appointments, answering queries and/or redirecting callers / visitors with diplomacy and courtesy, obtaining background information on the purpose of appointments;
• Perform other related duties as required or instructed, including providing secretarial support to other areas of work and teams as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Essential

• Completion of secondary school education or equivalent.

Skills:

• Secretarial or commercial or administrative training. Familiar with WHO and administrative
• procedures and practices. Proficiency in the use of standard office software such as MS Word,
• Power Point, Excel, Internet etc. Knowledge of Japanese word processor an advantage.

Competencies:

• 1. Communicating in a credible and effective way

• 2. Moving forward in a changing environment

• 3. Producing results

Experience:

Essential

• At least five years of relevant practical experience outside and, preferably, within WHO.

Desirable

• Experience in administrative support positions in WHO (in order to have a sound knowledge of its rules andregulations, procedures and practices) an asset.
• Proven experience in the organization of WHO official meetings an advantage.

Languages:

• Expert knowledge of English and Japanese.

Additional Information:

The following priority order will be observed in the screening of candidates: 1. WHO staff members (Continuing, Fixed-term and Temporary appointments), 2. External candidates.

Other similar positions at the same level may be filled from this vacancy notice.

A written test may form part of the screening process.

This Vacancy Notice is published in English only.

This post is subject to local recruitment and will be filled by persons recruited in the local commuting area of each office)

Annual salary:

(Net of tax)

Yen 6,470,000 net pa at single rate at single rate

A written test and interviews may be used as a form of screening

Online applications are strongly encouraged to enable WHO to store your profile in a permanent database. Please visit WHO's e-Recruitment website at: www.who.int/employment . The system provides instructions for online application procedures.

All applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the vacancy has been posted and well before the deadline stated in the vacancy announcement.

WHO is committed to workforce diversity.

Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

More Info and Application

[read more..]

Job: Assistant to Director

Location: Kobe, Japan 
Deadline: Monday, 07 October 2013 

Description

ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR (HQ/13/NMH/FT387)

17 September 2013

The mission of WHO is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health.

Vacancy Notice No:HQ/13/NMH/FT387

Title: Assistant to Director

Grade: G5

Contract type: Fixed-Term Appointment

Duration of contract: 1 year

Date: 16 September 2013

Application Deadline: 7 October 2013

Duty Station: Kobe, Japan

Organization unit: HQ/NMH Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health (HQ/NMH), HQ/WKC WHO Centre for Health Development (Kobe, Japan) (HQ/WKC)

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME :

The WHO Centre for Health Development (WHO Kobe Centre) conducts research on health in

development with a focus on how social, economic, environmental and technological determinants

impact on health, particularly in the urban setting. WHO is taking a lead role in calling forpartnership to raise awareness of the health impacts associated with urbanization in order to invoke actions from countries to reduce health inequities in urban settings. The Centre contribute to the synthesis and uptake of global knowledge on health equity in urban settings through a knowledge network of researchers, practitioners and other stakeholders on urban health who are

committed to translating knowledge into action, policy and practice.

Description of duties:

• Analyze incoming correspondence and requests in the light of background material, instructions, policies and precedents, research and obtain background information for Director's decision andaction, respond to enquiries with regard to the Director's Office;

• Receive and screen visitors and telephone calls with tact and discretion; schedule internal and external appointments, meetings, video- and teleconferences for Director's Office, and obtain background information from staff and external partners on the purpose of appointments and meetings;

• Based on the Director's instructions, and in line with WHO standards, rules, practices and procedures, draft correspondence and documents for approval, follow up as appropriate and request information from teams and staff to facilitate Director's action, ensuring deadlines are met in a timely manner;

• Review correspondence and documents submitted for the Director's approval, ensuring that documents are compiled in accordance with WHO policies, procedures and best practices, and presented in such manner which facilitates the Director's action, supporting the modifying of the correspondences and documents by originating teams and staff;

• Make, and follow up on, travel arrangements for Director's Office and visitors from HQ, and prepare visitors programme;

• Compile briefing and related materials in preparation for meetings; assist with preparation of presentations; contact staff to obtain information, take notes and prepare minutes as required;

• Prepare unofficial draft translations (English/Japanese) for Director's Office, including Director's messages for meetings and events;

• Organize meetings (e.g. Advisory Committee meeting, Programme Review Meeting with the Kobe Group, etc.) and similar activities: including the preparation of meeting documents, meeting logistics, venue and reception arrangements, correspondence to meeting participants, travel support and assistance to meeting participants, finalization of meeting reports, etc;

• Prepare contracts and agreements, monitoring their completion and payment, liaising with administration as appropriate;

• Assist the Director's Office in implementing activities through the use of WHO management systems, in compliance with administrative procedures, ensuring that expenditure requests are valid and funds available;

• Organize and maintain the filing system in the Director's Office, ensure effective access to information, and control confidential documents;

• In Director's absence, and in coordination with the Acting Director, liaise with relevant staff to ensure the smooth running of the Director's Office;

• Assist senior professional staff acting for the Director during absences;

• Perform other related duties as required or instructed, including providing secretarial support to other areas of work and teams as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Essential

Completion of secondary school or its equivalent technical or commercial school.

Desirable

Additional relevant higher education would be an advantage.

Skills:

Secretarial or administrative training. Training in GSM. Proficiency in the use of standard office

software such as MS Word, Power Point, Excel, Internet etc. Ability to work as team member and

under pressure. Good knowledge of local protocol. Ability to draft documents and correspondence

of a non-technical nature. Ability to exercise discretion and tact at all times.

Competencies:

• 1. Communicating in a credible and effective way

• 2. Producing results

• 3. Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences

Experience:

• Essential

At least five years of relevant practical experience.

Desirable

Experience in secretarial and administrative support positions in WHO an asset. Proven experience in the organization of WHO official meetings an advantage.

Languages: Expert knowledge of English and Japanese.

Additional Information: The following priority order will be observed in the screening of candidates: 1. WHO staff members (Continuing, Fixed-term and Temporary appointments), 2. External candidates.

Other similar positions at the same level may be filled from this vacancy notice.

A written test may form part of the screening process.

This Vacancy Notice is published in English only.

This post is subject to local recruitment and will be filled by persons recruited in the local commuting area of Kobe.

Annual salary: (Net of tax) Yen6,470,000 net pa at single rate at single rate

A written test and interviews may be used as a form of screening

Online applications are strongly encouraged to enable WHO to store your profile in a permanent database. Please visit WHO's e-Recruitment website at: www.who.int/employment . The system provides instructions for online application procedures.

All applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the vacancy has been posted and well before the deadline stated in the vacancy announcement.

WHO is committed to workforce diversity.

Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

More Info and Application

[read more..]