Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) was established in 1997 with the mission to eliminate the threat posed by mines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices. It operates under the Department of Peace Operations and is guided by the legislative mandates of the UN General Assembly and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council. UNMAS coordinates mine action efforts globally and provides operational responses at the country level, supporting the development of standards, policies, and norms. In Colombia, UNMAS plays a crucial role in providing technical assistance to national authorities and supporting mine action aspects of the peace process. The organization is dedicated to ensuring safety and security in conflict-affected areas and operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on humanitarian efforts and peacebuilding initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer will be responsible for developing and leading the Mine Action programme in Colombia. This includes creating strategies, work plans, and mobilizing resources for the programme. The incumbent will coordinate activities with other UN entities and monitor the performance of the programme and its implementing partners. The role requires a strong analytical ability to evaluate programme/project development and implementation, ensuring adherence to technical, safety, and quality standards. The officer will engage with national authorities, conduct research, and prepare written outputs such as strategies and reports. Additionally, the officer will facilitate training workshops and outreach activities, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage complex projects in a challenging environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Developing the strategy and workplan for the Mine Action programme in Colombia.
• Leading resource mobilization efforts and coordinating with other UN entities.
• Monitoring and evaluating the programme's performance against established indicators.
• Engaging with national authorities and providing guidance on Mine Action initiatives.
• Conducting research and analysis to inform policy development and programme adjustments.
• Preparing written outputs, including strategies, reports, and background papers.
• Organizing and facilitating meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Coordinating budget-related activities and preparing financial reports.
• Identifying problems and initiating corrective actions as necessary. 1
• Performing other duties as required to support the overall objectives of the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in project or programme management, with a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in related fields. A minimum of four years of experience specifically in programme management within mine action, security sector reform, or humanitarian settings is required. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of managerial experience in conflict or post-conflict environments and direct experience engaging with senior government officials. Experience in resource mobilization and fundraising is also essential. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of UN mine action policies and the ability to navigate complex humanitarian contexts.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, international relations, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of programme management and the operational environment in which UNMAS operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, with specific emphasis on mine action or related fields. Candidates should have at least four years of experience in programme management within a humanitarian context, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Additionally, two years of managerial experience and direct engagement with senior government officials are necessary to ensure effective collaboration and implementation of the Mine Action programme.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level II, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Proficiency in Spanish is also required at UN Level I, indicating a basic understanding of the language. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in both languages, as they will be interacting with diverse stakeholders and preparing reports and documentation in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is funded through Extra-budgetary funds and is initially for a period of one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be reassigned to different functions as needed. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from female candidates and individuals from various backgrounds. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.