Head of Policy and Compliance Monitoring Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is the largest United Nations operation in the Middle East, established to provide assistance and protection to Palestine refugees. With over 30,000 staff members, UNRWA operates in five areas of operation, focusing on delivering education, health care, social services, and emergency assistance to some of the most vulnerable communities in the region. The agency is committed to achieving gender parity and creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, emphasizing the importance of human rights and respect for diversity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Head of Policy and Compliance Monitoring Section is a senior role within UNRWA, reporting directly to the Chief of Central Support Services Division. This position is crucial for ensuring compliance with procurement, logistics, administration, and contracting processes. The incumbent will be responsible for developing governance systems, risk management strategies, and internal controls to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the agency's operations. The role requires a proactive approach to conducting quality reviews of transactions, implementing audit recommendations, and ensuring adherence to UNRWA's rules and regulations. The Head of Section will also be tasked with developing and implementing training programs to address skill gaps and promote best practices in procurement and supply chain management. This position plays a vital role in ensuring that the agency achieves best value for money while maintaining strict compliance with financial regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Policy and Compliance Monitoring Section include:

• Serving as a senior expert in procurement, logistics, administration, and contracting, ensuring compliance with established processes.
• Developing systems for governance, risk management, and internal controls.
• Conducting quality reviews of procurement and logistics transactions for accuracy and adherence to regulations.
• Implementing internal reviews and audit recommendations, ensuring corrective actions are taken.
• Acting as the focal point for compliance, monitoring, and reporting matters, regularly updating stakeholders on risks and internal controls.
• Developing and implementing standard policies and procedures related to administration, logistics, and procurement.
• Establishing methodologies and tools to standardize procedures and improve efficiency.
• Overseeing performance indicators and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance performance.
• Preparing compliance-related documents and reports for internal and external stakeholders. 1
• Monitoring adherence to contractual agreements and advising on contractual rights and obligations. 1
• Coordinating budget preparation and monitoring for the Central Support Services Division. 1
• Supporting the implementation of sustainability procurement action plans and representing the division in discussions on sustainability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, supply chain, law, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, supply chain, and administration is required, with at least five years of direct experience in audit, compliance, and internal controls. Strong managerial skills and experience in managing diverse teams are essential. Candidates should also have experience in developing policies and compliance monitoring in procurement and logistics. Familiarity with international procurement practices is highly desirable, as is experience with budget and HR management.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) from an accredited institution in a relevant field is required. A first-level university degree combined with additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic background relevant to the responsibilities of the position.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, with at least five years directly related to audit, compliance, and internal controls. Experience managing diverse teams is required, along with a strong understanding of procurement processes at an international level. Candidates should also have experience in developing operational systems in administration, procurement, logistics, or fleet management. Experience with the United Nations or similar international organizations is desirable.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but no additional languages are specified as desirable for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Regular Budget post with a contract duration of two years, with the possibility of extension. The incumbent will be required to travel within the Agency's area of operations in the Middle East. Applications must be submitted in English through UNRWA's online e-recruitment system, and late applications will not be accepted. UNRWA encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. The agency does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of neutrality and integrity in its hiring practices.