Operations Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, with a mission to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. The organization works to safeguard the rights of refugees and assist in their voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. UNHCR's core values include professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity, and it employs thousands of staff members worldwide to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The Operations Associate position is crucial for the effective implementation of UNHCR's operational strategies in Malawi, particularly in supporting refugees and stateless persons. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Senior Operations Officer and will be responsible for a variety of functions related to project planning, reporting, and implementation within the designated geographical area. This role requires a high degree of independence in managing regular assignments while adhering to the guidelines and policies set forth by UNHCR. The Operations Associate will engage with various stakeholders, including local suppliers and partners, to ensure compliance with administrative and budgetary processes. The position also involves significant data analysis and reporting, utilizing tools such as COMPASS, Cloud ERP, and Power BI to monitor operational performance and identify areas for improvement. The incumbent will play a key role in training staff on these systems, thereby enhancing the overall capacity of the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Associate will undertake a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: reviewing operational data and ensuring the accuracy of regional and country operations plans; creating detailed reports and conducting analyses to identify inconsistencies and potential programmatic shortfalls; assisting in the training of staff on relevant operational tools; processing administrative requests related to financial transactions and procurement; contributing to the preparation of project documents and donor submissions; maintaining records of donor contributions and financial commitments; gathering information from various sources to support operational analysis; ensuring compliance with UNHCR's global strategies and guidelines; and managing risks associated with operational objectives. The role also involves facilitating coordination with government entities and other stakeholders to ensure effective program delivery and may require the incumbent to assume leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Head of National Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Essential qualifications include in-depth knowledge of COMPASS, Cloud ERP, and Power BI, as well as an understanding of IPSAS. Desirable qualifications include training in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, monitoring, and evaluation, and completion of UNHCR learning programs relevant to the functions of the position. Experience in program or operations management within UNHCR or similar organizations is highly valued, along with familiarity with UNHCR's operational rules and procedures.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Business Administration, Economics, Political Science, or Law. Relevant certifications in these areas are also considered beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least three years of relevant experience in operational roles, particularly within humanitarian or development contexts. Experience with financial management, administrative oversight, and supply chain coordination is essential. Familiarity with UNHCR's operational frameworks and previous roles in similar capacities will be advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, along with knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language is required, with local language skills considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the GS6 grade level and is a regular assignment with a target start date of May 15, 202

• The role is full-time and may involve travel to remote areas to engage directly with beneficiaries. The incumbent will be expected to uphold UNHCR's core values and contribute to a safe and respectful working environment. Additional qualifications may include skills in data management, resource planning, and results-based management. The salary and benefits will be determined according to UNHCR's compensation framework.