Risk and Compliance Specialist

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 and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to its mission, fostering a culture of belonging and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Risk and Compliance Specialist plays a crucial role in enhancing risk management practices and ensuring compliance with organizational rules and regulations within UNICEF's country office. Reporting to the Deputy Representative Operations, this position is responsible for strengthening risk assurance and compliance efforts, which includes developing and implementing risk management practices, conducting audits, and ensuring that operational activities align with ethical standards and sustainability principles. The Specialist will lead the planning and execution of HACT assurance activities, maintain an assurance calendar, and produce quality documentation regarding internal controls. This role is vital for safeguarding UNICEF's resources and credibility while contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Risk Management Support: Assist in the annual risk assessment process, monitor reports for compliance, and lead peer reviews to verify project performance. Ensure risk management is integrated into project proposals and major management decisions.
• Compliance Support: Review office systems for compliance, enforce internal controls, and prepare the annual Statement of Internal Control. Conduct periodic reviews of activities to ensure adherence to UNICEF policies.
• Fraud Risk Management: Collect evidence for fraud investigations, advise management on lessons learned, and implement anti-fraud strategies.
• HACT Assurance Oversight: Coordinate HACT assurance activities, maintain an assurance plan, and collaborate with teams to strengthen partner capacity.
• Advisory Role: Advise management on governance frameworks, participate in governance meetings, and supervise General Service staff.
• Capacity Building: Document internal control weaknesses, analyze policy changes, and support continuous learning for the Risk and Compliance function.
• Partnership Management: Ensure compliance with financial and programmatic requirements among partners, facilitate capacity assessments, and promote the use of assurance findings for improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Business Administration, Financial Management, Operations Management, or related fields. Certifications in Risk Management, Audit, or Accounting are considered assets. Additionally, candidates should have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or higher) in Business Administration, Financial Management, Operations Management, Strategic Management, Risk Management, Audit, Investigation, Internal Control, Statistics, Data Analysis, or related fields is required. A bachelor's degree with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
At least five years of continuous professional work experience in Risk and Compliance or a directly relevant area is required, with several years in internal audit. Experience in financial management, developing financial control systems, and working with international organizations, NGOs, or the UN is preferred. Field experience or familiarity with emergency contexts is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in French and a working knowledge of English are required. Knowledge of the local language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must meet medical clearance requirements.