Head of Programme Support Unit (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a related organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various aspects of migration management and humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme Support Unit (P) will be responsible for managing the Programme Support Unit (PSU) within the IOM Afghanistan Country Office. This role encompasses overseeing the Programme Development and Reporting, Communications, and Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) units. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Regional Director and the Chief of Mission (CoM), collaborating closely with various units at the Regional Office and Headquarters. The position requires leading the development, monitoring, and evaluation of program activities, ensuring alignment with IOM Afghanistan's strategy. The candidate will also be involved in fundraising and resource mobilization, establishing partnerships, and coordinating internal functions to support the mission's objectives. This role is critical in ensuring that projects meet their intended results and deliverables, and it requires a strategic approach to program development and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programme Support Unit include overseeing the development, monitoring, and evaluation of program activities, ensuring compliance with IOM Afghanistan's strategy. The candidate will lead fundraising strategies, contribute to resource mobilization efforts, and analyze donor policies to identify new funding opportunities. The role involves supporting policy functions related to UN internal planning and programming, advising on strategic planning, and liaising with various stakeholders to facilitate program implementation. The candidate will prepare policy guidance notes and documentation for senior management, ensure integrated project support functions are provided, and lead project development and donor relations. Additionally, the candidate will assess training needs, coordinate capacity-building initiatives, and ensure compliance with IOM and donor requirements. The role may also involve identifying potential program activities and projects to expand the mission's scope.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Business or Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with seven years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with nine years of relevant experience is acceptable. Extensive experience in policy formulation, program development, implementation, and evaluation is required, along with demonstrated experience in report writing and coordination with program managers. Supervisory experience in staff management and experience in managing humanitarian, recovery, and development programs are also essential. Familiarity with inter-agency, UN, and bilateral donor programming is crucial, as is a proven ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Business or Public Administration from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, a University degree in these fields with additional years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in the principles of international relations and public administration, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in policy formulation, program development, implementation, and evaluation. This includes a proven track record in report writing and coordination with program managers, as well as supervisory experience in managing staff. Experience in managing humanitarian, recovery, and development programs is essential, and familiarity with the regional context is considered an asset. The level of experience required indicates a senior professional capable of leading complex initiatives and managing diverse teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Knowledge of another official UN language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish, or French) and/or local languages (Dari and Pashto) is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the communication needs of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a Special Short Term Graded contract, with an initial duration of six months and the possibility of extension. The role is categorized as a professional vacancy and requires internationally recruited staff to be mobile. Candidates should be aware that any offer is subject to funding confirmation, and the selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for a period of 24 months. The appointment is contingent upon certification of medical fitness, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances, and compliance with residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including discrimination and harassment.