Senior Driver

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF has a strong presence in The Gambia, working closely with the government to deliver essential services for children and women, guided by the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The organization has been active in The Gambia since 1965, partnering with the government to strengthen national laws and policies and empower local communities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Driver position at UNICEF is crucial for providing reliable and safe driving services to the Head of Office. This role requires the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and integrity, as well as a thorough understanding of local driving rules and regulations. The Senior Driver is expected to demonstrate a client-oriented approach, high sense of responsibility, courtesy, and tact, while effectively interacting with individuals from diverse national and cultural backgrounds. The position involves not only driving but also maintaining the assigned vehicle and documenting vehicle-related information, ensuring that all tasks are performed with a focus on safety and compliance with local laws.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Driver will be responsible for providing reliable and safe driving services for UNICEF staff and officials. This includes maintaining the assigned vehicle in good working condition, ensuring regular servicing and repairs are conducted as needed. The driver will document all vehicle-related information, including mileage, fuel consumption, and maintenance records. Additionally, the driver must adhere to all local driving rules and regulations, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and discretion at all times. The role also requires the ability to deal patiently and tactfully with visitors and to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a secondary education and a valid driver’s license, along with a comprehensive knowledge of local driving rules and regulations. A minimum of three years of relevant work experience as a driver in an international organization, embassy, or UN system is required, with a proven safe driving record. Candidates should also have good knowledge of the city, local roads, and conditions where the office is located, as well as skills in minor vehicle repairs. A high sense of confidentiality, initiative, and good judgment is essential, along with the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a secondary education, which provides the foundational knowledge necessary for the role. Candidates must also hold a valid driver’s license, which is critical for performing the driving duties associated with this position.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant work experience as a driver, preferably within an international organization, embassy, or UN system. This experience should include a demonstrated safe driving record, which is essential for ensuring the safety of staff and officials during transportation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial in the role of a driver. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language (such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the driver's ability to interact with a diverse range of individuals.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the G-3 level and is full-time. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and medical clearance is required for appointments.