Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in various regions, including Central America and the Dominican Republic, and focuses on a wide range of human rights issues. The OHCHR is committed to fostering a culture of respect for human rights and aims to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is crucial for the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of programs and operations within the OHCHR's Regional Office for Central America and the Dominican Republic. The officer will be responsible for overseeing assigned programs/projects, ensuring that they align with the organization's goals and objectives. This role involves analyzing program development and implementation, identifying challenges, and proposing solutions. The officer will also engage in policy development, conduct research, and prepare various written outputs, including reports and background papers. Additionally, the officer will manage projects and provide support for meetings and conferences, ensuring that all activities are well-coordinated and documented. The position requires a proactive approach to outreach and training, as well as the ability to analyze data and present findings effectively. Overall, the Programme Management Officer plays a vital role in advancing the OHCHR's mission by ensuring that programs are effectively managed and evaluated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Participating in the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programs/projects, monitoring progress, and analyzing outcomes.
• Reviewing relevant documents and reports to identify issues and propose corrective actions.
• Conducting research and analysis to gather information from diverse sources, preparing written outputs such as reports and background papers.
• Designing data collection tools and interpreting responses to inform decision-making.
• Managing projects and evaluation exercises, ensuring that all activities are aligned with organizational goals.
• Providing substantive support for meetings and conferences, including preparing documents and presentations.
• Conducting outreach activities and training workshops to enhance understanding of human rights issues.
• Participating in field missions and providing guidance to external consultants and government officials.
• Coordinating budget and funding activities, preparing related documents and reports. 1
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for planning and reporting. 1
• Performing other duties as required to support the organization's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of project and program management principles, with the ability to analyze and resolve issues effectively. Professionalism is essential, as the officer will be expected to demonstrate competence and mastery of subject matter. The ability to conduct independent research and analysis is crucial, along with familiarity with various research sources. Candidates should also exhibit strong teamwork skills, collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Planning and organizing abilities are necessary to develop clear goals and manage conflicting priorities efficiently. Additionally, candidates must be committed to incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage, as it enhances the candidate's ability to analyze data effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management, administration, or a related area is required. Experience within the United Nations Common System or similar international organizations is desirable, particularly in project/program management or strategic planning. Familiarity with human rights issues and social work is also advantageous, as is experience with results-based management, which is critical for evaluating program effectiveness and impact.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Spanish is required, with both languages being essential for effective communication within the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages, as outlined by the UN Language Framework. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of extension, subject to the availability of funds. Candidates must be nationals of Panama, as this is a National Professional Officer category position. Current staff members holding fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointments may apply for temporary positions no more than one level above their current grade. The position is full-time, and the recruitment process adheres to the principles of diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.