Risk and Compliance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child, emphasizing equity and the importance of addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for professional and personal development, along with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Risk and Compliance Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Risk and Compliance Manager in enhancing risk assurance and compliance efforts within the Regional Office and the West and Central Africa Region. This position involves providing expertise and monitoring related to risk management practices, ensuring adherence to organizational rules and regulations, and promoting ethical behavior. The officer will also oversee the digital transformation system to facilitate the effective use of digital tools across Country Offices, contributing to UNICEF's broader digital transformation agenda. The role requires a proactive approach to risk management, focusing on the development and continuous improvement of practices at various levels within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Risk and Compliance Officer's duties include supporting the annual risk assessment process, monitoring the reliability of reports, and ensuring compliance with applicable rules and regulations. The officer will assist in the review of office systems and procedures for compliance, enforce internal controls, and support the preparation of the annual Statement of Internal Control. Additionally, the officer will promote the adoption of digital platforms to enhance oversight of partnerships and internal controls, deliver training to strengthen staff capacity in using digital tools, and consolidate fragmented tools into a unified digital framework. The officer will also monitor and report on partnership and risk management trends, providing data for regional reports and recommendations for improvement. Furthermore, the officer will support continuous learning and development within the Risk and Compliance function, ensuring staff understand key UNICEF policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Business Administration, Finance/Accounting, or Audit. Certifications in Investigation or Accounting are considered assets. The role requires at least two years of continuous professional work experience in Risk and Compliance or a directly relevant area such as internal audit. Familiarity with emergency contexts is also beneficial. Desirable qualifications include experience in financial management, developing financial control systems, enterprise risk management, audits, and internal controls, preferably within international organizations, NGOs, or the UN. Experience in data and trend analysis is an additional asset.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Business Administration, Finance/Accounting, or Audit is required for this position. Additional certifications in Investigation or Accounting are advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of continuous professional work experience in Risk and Compliance or a related field, such as internal audit. Candidates with field experience or familiarity with emergency contexts will be preferred, as this knowledge is crucial for understanding the complexities of risk management in challenging environments.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, along with a strong working knowledge of English. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the organization and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working in a complex and dynamic environment. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates may be required to undergo background checks and medical clearance as part of the recruitment process. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its mission, including discrimination and abuse. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UNICEF's standards and principles.