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 across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA aims to help these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their plight. The agency operates the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and relying almost entirely on voluntary contributions for funding. UNRWA offers a range of services, including 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 encourages individuals seeking a rewarding opportunity to join its mission.

Job Overview:
The Microfinance Programme Supervisor will report directly to the Chief of the Field Microfinance Programme (CFMP/J) and will oversee the operations of 3-6 Microfinance Branches within the designated area or region. The role involves participating in the development of operational plans at the field level, aligning with departmental policies and strategies. The supervisor will lead microfinance operations, providing guidance and technical support to ensure the implementation of departmental strategies, setting targets, and monitoring progress towards financial and operational objectives. The position requires a strong focus on compliance with industry standards and regulatory frameworks to minimize risks and enhance profitability. The supervisor will also contribute to the development of operational procedures, prepare reports on credit operations, and work closely with branch managers to identify business opportunities and challenges. The role emphasizes the importance of customer service, staff capacity building, and effective management of bad debts, ensuring that all branches operate efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Microfinance Programme Supervisor will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with CFMP/J to develop operational plans for the microfinance programme at the field level, including designing action plans for new products and branches.
• Leading microfinance operations in the assigned area, providing guidance and technical support while ensuring compliance with departmental strategies and regulations.
• Contributing to the development of field operational procedures and drafting manuals for credit products.
• Preparing monthly and ad-hoc reports on credit operations, including performance indicators and risk assessments.
• Working with branch managers to identify business opportunities and provide solutions to complex challenges.
• Analyzing performance metrics and KPIs for each branch, identifying areas for improvement, and enhancing productivity and profitability.
• Developing productivity ratios and performance targets for credit products in coordination with CFMP and the Director of Microfinance.
• Creating staff capacity building plans and providing training and mentorship to ensure staff effectiveness.
• Ensuring high levels of customer service and resolving escalated customer issues. 1
• Monitoring the collection of bad debts and taking necessary actions to minimize the bad debt portfolio. 1
• Performing 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, planning, and organizational skills. The role requires a commitment to UN core values of integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in economics, business, finance, development studies, or a related field is required 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 manage complex operations and lead teams effectively. Candidates should also indicate their current involvement in any outside activities, as this information is required for the application process.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is mandatory, with a required 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, ensuring effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

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 (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. Candidates must possess a valid driving license, preferably for manual transmission vehicles. The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, but only those residing in Jordan and authorized to work in the duty station at the time of application are eligible. UNRWA encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities and is committed to achieving gender parity in its staffing.