Project Advisory Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. With a mission to promote the rights and well-being of every child, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 13,000 employees. The organization focuses on various areas including health, education, protection, and emergency response, ensuring that children have access to essential services and support. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, including those with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Project Advisory Consultant will play a crucial role in providing strategic and technical guidance to facilitate the establishment and operationalization of Centers of Excellence (CoEs). This position requires close collaboration with the Director of PG, the Chief of Operations, and the project coordination-team" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">coordination team to identify potential risks, ensure the readiness of CoE locations, and enhance financial and grant management functions. The consultant will be expected to deliver expert advice on various aspects of the CoE establishment, including recruitment strategies, financial sustainability, and program offerings. The role also involves maintaining a project risk register, assessing operational readiness, and providing insights into financial management, ensuring that the CoEs are effectively positioned to achieve their objectives and deliver quality services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key duties, including:

• Providing strategic advisory support to the Director of PG and project coordination team, focusing on risks and opportunities related to CoE establishment.
• Maintaining and updating the project risk register, identifying emerging risks, and proposing mitigation strategies.
• Collaborating with the Chief of Operations to assess the readiness of CoE locations, including physical, logistical, and administrative aspects.
• Offering strategic insights into financial and grant management functions, reviewing financial plans, and advising on budget alignment with CoE objectives.
• Advising on effective knowledge transfer mechanisms to CoE staff and stakeholders, ensuring program offerings are relevant and sustainable.
• Participating in monthly coordination meetings and summarizing key concerns and risks.
• Delivering monthly advisory reports and strategic insight papers as outlined in the deliverables section.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in project management, strategic advisory roles, and risk management. They should have proven experience in financial and grant management, with a solid understanding of operational readiness in complex environments. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with UNICEF's mission and values, as well as experience in humanitarian contexts, will be advantageous. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to ethical standards and integrity in their work.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field such as international development, public administration, business administration, or a related discipline is required. Additional certifications in project management or financial management will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their ability to perform the duties of the position effectively.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5-7 years of relevant professional experience in project advisory roles, particularly in the context of international development or humanitarian assistance. Experience working with UNICEF or similar organizations will be highly regarded. The candidate should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing complex projects and providing strategic guidance to senior management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly Spanish or French, will be considered an asset, as it may enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position may require travel, and candidates must complete mandatory courses related to ethics, prevention of sexual harassment, and other relevant training. The selected candidate will not be considered a staff member under UNICEF's regulations and will not receive benefits such as leave entitlements or medical insurance. Consultants are responsible for their tax liabilities and must ensure that their visa and health insurance are valid for the duration of the contract. Selected candidates must confirm their fully vaccinated status against COVID-19, although this requirement does not apply to those working remotely. UNICEF is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for consultants with disabilities and encourages applicants to disclose any needs for accommodation during the selection process.