Chief of Section (Investigations)

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 from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of belonging and growth within a diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section (Investigations) position is located in Budapest and is part of the Office of Internal Audit and Investigations (OIAI), which is an independent office reporting to UNICEF’s director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director and the Executive Board. The role involves leading the Investigations Service, which investigates reports of possible violations of rules or regulations, mismanagement, misconduct, waste of resources, or abuse of authority. The incumbent will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Investigations Service, manage a team of investigators, and ensure that investigations are conducted professionally and efficiently, adhering to international best practices. The position requires travel to various UNICEF locations, often in challenging duty stations, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of integrity and accountability in all investigations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section will lead, supervise, and manage a team of investigators in Budapest, overseeing assignments and performance evaluations. Key responsibilities include planning, conducting, and managing investigations into serious and complex cases of corruption, fraud, misconduct, mismanagement, and violations of UN regulations. The incumbent will gather and analyze evidence, conduct interviews, prepare statements, and ensure timely investigations. They will also prepare high-quality investigation reports with findings and recommendations, manage case portfolios, and liaise with national and international authorities. Additional duties include providing advice on investigatory matters, developing data-analytical tools, and representing the Investigations Section with HQ and field colleagues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in Law, Criminology, criminal investigation, fraud examination, or related fields. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted. A minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience in legal, audit, and investigation fields is required, particularly in fraud cases, misconduct investigations, and abuse of authority. Candidates should demonstrate strong people management, strategic thinking, critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Law, Criminology, or criminal investigation. A Bachelor’s degree may be acceptable if combined with sufficient relevant work experience, specifically in legal and investigative contexts.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant work experience in legal, audit, and investigation roles, particularly focusing on fraud, corruption, misconduct investigations, and abuse of authority. Candidates should have experience in international investigations and working in multilateral public settings, as well as relevant experience at the country level, especially in development and humanitarian contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's profile for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Budapest, with travel required to various UNICEF locations, often in difficult duty stations. The role is assessed as an elevated risk for Child Safeguarding purposes, necessitating additional vetting and background checks. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from low-income countries and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must meet medical clearance and vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process.