Microfinance Programme Supervisor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 194

• Its primary mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees. UNRWA operates in five areas: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, focusing on helping these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their plight. The agency is the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and is primarily funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, and private donors. UNRWA's services include education, healthcare, relief and social services, camp infrastructure improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. The organization is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, and it actively seeks individuals who are passionate about contributing to this mission.

Job Overview:
The Microfinance Programme Supervisor will play a crucial role in leading and managing microfinance operations within a designated area or region. This position involves collaborating with the Chief of the Field Microfinance Programme (CFMP/J) to develop operational plans that align with departmental policies and strategies. The supervisor will oversee the implementation of these plans, ensuring that all branches comply with industry standards and regulatory frameworks to minimize risks and enhance profitability. The role requires a strong focus on performance metrics, staff development, and customer service, as well as the ability to identify new business opportunities and markets. The supervisor will also be responsible for mentoring staff, conducting assessments, and preparing reports that inform senior management about the programme's performance and challenges. This position is essential for ensuring the success and sustainability of microfinance initiatives within the UNRWA framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with CFMP/J to develop operational plans for the microfinance programme at the field level, including designing action plans for new products and branches.
• Lead microfinance operations in the assigned area, providing guidance and technical support to branch managers.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal policies to minimize credit and operational risks.
• Contribute to the development of operational procedures and draft manuals for credit products.
• Prepare monthly and ad-hoc reports on credit operations, including performance indicators and risk assessments.
• Identify potential business opportunities and new markets, providing solutions to complex challenges.
• Analyze performance metrics and KPIs, taking necessary actions to enhance productivity and profitability.
• Develop productivity ratios and performance targets for credit products in coordination with CFMP and the Director of Microfinance.
• Create staff capacity-building plans, including training and mentoring to ensure staff efficiency. 1
• Ensure effective customer service across branches, resolving escalated issues and promoting customer retention. 1
• Monitor the collection of bad debts and take actions to minimize the bad debt portfolio. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in economics, business, finance, development studies, or a related discipline. Additionally, they should have at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in management, administration, or development of credit operations or financial administration of loan programmes. Experience in staff development and training is also required. Candidates must demonstrate a proven ability to establish effective internal and external work relationships at all levels, and they should possess strong analytical and leadership skills. Knowledge of the context of Palestine refugees and UNRWA operations is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in economics, business, finance, development studies, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of microfinance operations and to effectively manage the responsibilities associated with the role.

Experience:
Candidates are required to have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in management, administration, or development of credit operations or financial administration of loan programmes. This experience should include a strong focus on staff development and training, as well as a demonstrated ability to analyze performance metrics and implement strategies for improvement. The level of experience should reflect a comprehensive understanding of the microfinance sector and the ability to lead teams effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Arabic is required for this position, with a minimum level of proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate their language skills in accordance with the UN Language Framework, which outlines the necessary competencies for effective communication within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term Appointment for one year, including a one-year probation period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The grade for this position is ML5C, with a monthly salary of JD 1,170.300 fils, plus a Special Occupational Allowance of 47% of the basic salary. Additional benefits include a monthly Provident Fund contribution, compulsory medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, and allowances for dependents if applicable. The position is based in the Microfinance National Office in Amman, Jordan, and candidates must be residing in Jordan and authorized to work in the duty station at the time of application. The agency will not cover relocation costs, and preference will be given to registered Palestine refugees and candidates who contribute to gender parity. UNRWA encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.