Head, Internal Investigation Function (IIF)

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. The organization merges the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system focused on gender issues. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Internal Investigation Function (IIF) at UN Women is responsible for leading and managing investigations into allegations of misconduct, including fraud, corruption, harassment, and abuse of authority. This role involves conducting preliminary assessments, gathering and analyzing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing investigation reports. The Head, IIF will also provide guidance to investigation teams, develop investigation strategies, and ensure compliance with UN Women regulations. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including internal personnel and external partners, to uphold the integrity and governance of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage investigations in accordance with UN Women regulations, ensuring thoroughness and adherence to best practices.
• Conduct preliminary assessments and investigations into allegations of misconduct, defining the scope and parameters of each investigation.
• Supervise investigation teams, coordinating their activities and ensuring effective collaboration.
• Gather and analyze evidence, conduct interviews, and prepare concise reports detailing findings and recommendations.
• Provide timely support and advice on investigation activities, including the preparation of annual reports and quality assurance of investigation-related policies.
• Contribute to knowledge management by providing training and guidance on integrity and fraud prevention.
• Strengthen the investigation capacity within UN Women by coaching team members and assessing their performance.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office and organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in law, investigation, audit/accounting, or a related field. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. Additional professional certifications, such as Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), are desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of administrative investigations and possess excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of legal norms governing investigations and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, investigation, audit/accounting, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additional professional certifications, such as CFE, are desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in conducting and managing administrative investigations is required. At least four years of experience in an international organization is necessary, along with experience in annual reporting and maintaining investigation statistics. Candidates should have experience leading and managing personnel in international settings and familiarity with UN policies and operations is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve a hybrid work model. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.