Specialist – Operations, Risk Management and Oversight

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in India since 1951, focusing on various aspects of human development. The organization collaborates with the Government of India and other development partners to tackle issues such as poverty eradication, inequality reduction, local governance strengthening, environmental protection, and sustainable development. UNDP India operates in every state and union territory, working with national and subnational governments and diverse development actors to achieve results that benefit the most vulnerable and marginalized communities. The UNDP India Country Programme for 2023-2027 aims to provide integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: strengthening accountable institutions for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing economic opportunities and social protection, and promoting climate-smart solutions. The organization emphasizes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion, supported by innovative partnerships and financial solutions, as well as data and digital architecture. UNDP invites professionals to join its team to contribute to India's national and global development goals.

Job Overview:
The position of Specialist – Operations, Risk Management and Oversight is crucial for supporting the implementation of the Infrastructure Resilience Accelerator Fund (IRAF), a Multi Partner Trust Fund established to enhance resilience in infrastructure systems. The role involves overseeing due diligence, risk management, and operational functions of the Fund Management Unit (FMU) hosted at the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) Secretariat in New Delhi. The Specialist will work closely with the UNDP Head of the Administrative Unit to ensure effective programme implementation, financial oversight, and compliance with operational policies. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders to develop country-specific solutions that promote sustainable development and address the needs of marginalized communities. The Specialist will also be responsible for capacity building, information management, and supporting the Fund's operational processes, including budget monitoring and compliance reviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: overseeing the accreditation of IRAF Fund recipient organizations, conducting due diligence applications, and supporting the calls for proposals selection process. They will manage risk assessments, including the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH) risk assessments, and maintain the Fund's risk management dashboard. The Specialist will monitor IRAF programme delivery, prepare quarterly reports, and ensure compliance with budgetary requirements. They will also support the development and adaptation of CDRI policies and procedures, conduct training for programme teams, and assist in procurement processes. Additionally, the Specialist will establish and maintain an information management system for the IRAF, ensuring quality control and accessibility for CDRI personnel and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in finance, law, business, public administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management and operations of large programmes is required for those with a master's degree, while 7 years is required for those with a bachelor's degree. Candidates should have extensive experience in development project implementation, operations, finance, risk management, and audit oversight, preferably within the United Nations or similar organizations. Proficiency in using office software and web-based management systems is essential, along with experience in managing projects in high-risk contexts and familiarity with international procurement processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as finance, law, business, or public administration. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in these areas will also be considered if they have additional qualifying experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of financial management, operations, and risk assessment in the context of international development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master's degree, or 7 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should encompass overseeing financial management and operations of large-scale programmes, particularly in the context of development cooperation agencies or multilateral banks. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in project implementation, risk management, and audit oversight, with a proven track record of managing projects in fragile or high-risk environments. Familiarity with Vertical Funds and their operational processes is highly desirable, as is experience in financial reporting and compliance.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hindi is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages such as Spanish and/or French would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse work environment and engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New Delhi, India, and may require occasional international travel. The role is full-time and involves working within the framework of the UNDP and CDRI. As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level.