Strategic Business Partner and Deputy for the Head of the Office

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. UNICEF has been active in Cameroon since 1975, focusing on the rights of women and children, and provides financial and technical support across various sectors including health, education, and child protection. The organization emphasizes collaboration with all stakeholders to address the challenges faced by children and families in Cameroon.

Job Overview:
As a Strategic Business Partner and Deputy for the Head of the Office, you will play a crucial role in leading UNICEF Cameroon’s mission to deliver impactful results for children. This position involves driving change and providing risk-informed, solution-oriented analysis and strategic advice that supports critical program and management decisions. You will oversee operational teams, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with governance systems. Your role will also include representing organizational risk perspectives in management discussions and championing results-based management practices. You will be responsible for anticipating business needs and challenges, providing innovative solutions, and leading audit preparedness and reviews. Additionally, you will guide supply and logistics strategies to meet programmatic needs efficiently and support inter-agency collaboration.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the Head of Office in operational oversight and act as Officer in Charge in their absence.
• Oversee core operational teams including budget management, financial reporting, facilities management, and supply chain logistics.
• Represent organizational risk and governance in management discussions.
• Anticipate and address business needs with innovative solutions.
• Provide critical inputs to various planning processes and support results-based management.
• Lead audit preparedness and manage responses to audit observations.
• Leverage technology for program accountability and results.
• Guide supply chain management and procurement practices.
• Lead UNICEF’s contributions to inter-agency collaboration. 1
• Promote simplification and efficiency across systems and processes.

Required Qualifications:

• An Advanced University Degree (Master’s or higher) in Business Management, Financial Management, Accounting, Public Finance, or related fields, or a full professional accounting designation from a recognized institute.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in operations management, including budget and financial management, facilities management, and ICT.
• Experience in the development sector or UN system is an asset.
• Additional experience in audit, safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, or grant management is desired.
• Familiarity with corporate ERPs and IPSAS is highly desirable.
• Experience in Results Based Management is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as Business Management, Financial Management, Accounting, or related operations functions. Alternatively, a full professional accounting designation from an internationally recognized body is acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial and operational management within UNICEF.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 8 years of professional experience at both national and international levels, specifically in implementing strategic organizational initiatives in operations management. Experience in the development sector, UN system, or international NGOs is preferred. Familiarity with working in developing countries or humanitarian contexts is also beneficial. Strategic management experience in leading client-oriented teams is required, along with hands-on experience in strategic operations.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is mandatory, with excellent written skills in both languages. Familiarity with additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring additional vetting and background checks. UNICEF promotes diversity 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 must be prepared to meet medical clearance and vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process. UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.