International Operations Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of women and girls, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning its goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The International Operations Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing a wide range of operational functions within UNFPA, including financial and human resources management, procurement, IT, general administration, travel and logistics, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. This position operates under the delegated authority of the UNFPA Representative and is responsible for leading strategic planning for UNFPA operations, setting management targets, and advising on cost-effectiveness and responses to complex challenges. The role requires a strong commitment to the mission of UNFPA and the ability to manage resources effectively while ensuring compliance with corporate policies and practices. The International Operations Manager will report to the UNFPA Regional Director in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia Regional Office (EECARO).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Operations Manager is responsible for a comprehensive set of duties that include:

• Providing strategic direction for UNFPA operations, ensuring effective and efficient delivery of the country programme, and meeting management targets.
• Overseeing financial management, ensuring the integrity of financial systems, and reviewing budget requirements.
• Managing general administration, including travel, logistics, and premises, while establishing work plans and monitoring results.
• Ensuring high-quality service provision for procurement and project support services, monitoring the quality and timeliness of services provided.
• Coordinating common services with other UN organizations, ensuring that joint arrangements benefit UNFPA's objectives.
• Ensuring the safety and security of UNFPA staff and premises, implementing security measures in compliance with UN policies.
• Supporting partnership building on operational issues, representing UNFPA in inter-agency meetings, and promoting a client-oriented approach among operations staff.
• Supporting HR management functions, coordinating with HR on staffing matters, and ensuring timely recruitment and management of staff contracts.
• Supervising the management of UNFPA assets and facilities, ensuring compliance with ICT policies and procedures, and participating in inter-agency meetings to represent UNFPA's interests.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Finance, Public/Business Administration, Public Policy, or relevant social sciences. They should have at least 7 years of relevant experience in development within governmental, multilateral, or civil society organizations, including a minimum of 3 years in senior-level management roles. Strong management and leadership skills are essential, along with the ability to build relationships with clients and respond positively to feedback. Candidates should demonstrate solid knowledge in financial management, contracts, asset and procurement, and general administration, as well as the ability to lead business process re-engineering and implement new systems. Effective team building, conflict resolution skills, and a strong interest in development work are also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Finance, Public/Business Administration, Public Policy, or other relevant social sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management and operational oversight within the context of UNFPA's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in development, particularly in a governmental, multilateral, or civil society organization. This experience should include at least 3 years of senior-level management responsibilities in a challenging and complex organizational setting. The role demands excellent management and leadership skills, with a proven ability to build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, and to focus on impact and results.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is desirable, as it would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. The selection and appointment process may involve background and reference checks, medical clearance, visa issuance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process. Candidates holding permanent resident status in a country other than their nationality may be required to renounce such status upon appointment.