International UN Volunteer Expert

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF Ethiopia is part of the United Nations Children's Fund, which is dedicated to advocating for children's rights, helping meet their basic needs, and expanding their opportunities to reach their full potential. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. The organization focuses on various areas including child protection, health, education, nutrition, and emergency response. In Ethiopia, UNICEF is implementing a 5-year country programme from 2020 to 2025, with a total budget of US$599 million, aimed at addressing the needs of children and families in a country facing significant development challenges. The organization has a workforce of 509 staff members and operates from its main office in Addis Ababa, along with eight zone offices and three satellite offices throughout the country. UNICEF Ethiopia is committed to ensuring that all children are protected from violence, exploitation, and abuse, and it has a zero-tolerance policy towards any conduct that undermines its mission and objectives.

Job Overview:
The International UN Volunteer Expert will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF Ethiopia's Risk and Compliance Unit (RCU) by providing essential assistance in risk management, compliance support, fraud risk management, and capacity building. This position is vital in ensuring that UNICEF's operations and programs are conducted in accordance with organizational rules and regulations, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the organization. The expert will work under the direct supervision of the Risk and Compliance Manager and will be responsible for supporting the annual risk assessment process, monitoring compliance with internal controls, and ensuring that staff are trained on key UNICEF policies. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying risks and implementing effective strategies to mitigate them, as well as fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within the organization. The expert will also engage with regional offices and participate in a network of risk and compliance specialists to share best practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of UNICEF's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International UN Volunteer Expert will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Risk Management Support: - Assist in the annual risk assessment process and ensure the reliability of reports and compliance with applicable rules. - Monitor risk mitigation action plans and conduct mid-term reviews. - Support the office management team in embedding risk management approaches in project proposals and governance committee reviews.
• Compliance Support: - Review office systems and procedures for compliance with organizational rules. - Strengthen internal controls to prevent and detect non-compliance. - Prepare the annual Statement of Internal Control (SIC) and ensure readiness for internal and external audits.
• Fraud Risk Management Support: - Collect evidence to respond to queries regarding allegations of fraud and misconduct. - Implement the global anti-fraud strategy and suggest internal fraud prevention mechanisms.
• Awareness and Capacity Building: - Implement a continuous learning and development plan for the Risk and Compliance function. - Provide training to staff on key UNICEF policies, including PSEA, Fraud, and Ethics.
• Support to Regional Office: - Assist in conducting reviews in countries without established Risk and Compliance positions and participate in peer reviews and assessments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the International UN Volunteer Expert position must possess a strong understanding of risk management and compliance frameworks, as well as experience in implementing internal controls and conducting audits. They should have excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, and possess strong interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Additionally, candidates should have a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances in a dynamic environment.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as finance, business administration, public administration, or a related discipline is required. A master's degree or equivalent advanced degree in a relevant field is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of risk management principles, compliance regulations, and organizational governance frameworks.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in risk management, compliance, internal audit, or a related field. Candidates should have experience working in international organizations, particularly in the context of humanitarian or development work. Familiarity with the UN system and its policies is an advantage. Experience in capacity building and training staff on compliance and risk management issues is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly local languages spoken in Ethiopia, is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The contract duration is typically for a specified period, and the position may involve travel to various field offices within Ethiopia. The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in the country is dynamic, and candidates should be prepared for potential challenges related to safety and mobility. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UN Volunteer Conditions of Service, which can be reviewed at the provided links.