Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Advisory Board on Compensation Claims (ABCC) and the United Nations Claims Board (UNCB) Secretariat Section of the Financial Risk Management Service, which is part of the Finance Division of the Office of Programme Planning, Finance and Budget (OPPFB) in the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC). This organization is dedicated to managing financial risks and ensuring compliance with UN policies, particularly in relation to compensation claims. The ABCC and UNCB play a crucial role in adjudicating individual claims for compensation, ensuring that the processes are fair, transparent, and efficient. The organization is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in its operations, and it operates within a framework that emphasizes accountability and responsiveness to the needs of its stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Officer will be responsible for overseeing the preparation and implementation of the work programme related to compensation claims. This includes ensuring that financial resources are effectively utilized to settle approved claims concerning death, injury, disability, and loss of personal effects. The role requires a strong focus on monitoring and reviewing the work programme and budget estimates, including expenditures in the Umoja system for all ABCC compensation claims. The Administrative Officer will also define requirements and collaborate with systems units to enhance reporting systems, ensuring accurate documentation of cases. Additionally, the officer will develop and implement procedures to streamline claims processes, improve response times, and maintain compliance with UN policies and practices. The position involves providing guidance and leadership to junior staff, as well as managing general administrative tasks related to the Advisory Board on Compensation Claims and the United Nations Claims Board.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Administrative Officer will take the lead in preparing and implementing the work programme, ensuring financial resources are utilized effectively for settling approved claims. Responsibilities include monitoring and reviewing the work programme and budget estimates, maintaining funding for the Unit, and creating fund commitments under the project structure for ABCC. The officer will also define requirements for improving reporting systems, develop procedures to streamline claims processes, and ensure compliance with UN policies. Additional duties include supervising financial administration, guiding junior staff, setting up meetings for the ABCC and UNCB, building case files, overseeing billing and receipt of income from other UN organizations, processing approved compensation payments, and analyzing data to identify trends related to claims. The officer will also perform project and change management assignments, including training, in collaboration with key stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of administrative, budgetary, financial, and human resources policies and procedures. They should demonstrate the ability to apply various United Nations administrative rules and regulations in work situations, possess conceptual analytical skills to conduct independent research and analysis, and be able to identify issues and formulate recommendations. The ideal candidate will show pride in their work, demonstrate professional competence, and be motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. They should also take responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and administrative processes within the UN framework.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in administration, finance, accounting, human resources management, law, or a related field is required. Candidates should have experience in preparing concise briefing notes and presenting complex and sensitive matters to senior management or executive boards. Additionally, experience in analyzing and interpreting complex cases and applying professional judgment to provide advice based on applicable policies is necessary. Experience with project management and familiarity with the UN system or comparable international organizations is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. French is also a working language, and proficiency in it is considered an asset. Candidates should consult the UN Language Framework for details on the minimum required level for each skill in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working with international teams. The role is crucial for ensuring that compensation claims are handled efficiently and in accordance with UN policies. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate a high level of professionalism and commitment to the organization's mission.