Risk Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees and displaced people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR works to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons, providing them with assistance and protection, and advocating for their rights.

Job Overview:
The Risk Management Officer will play a crucial role within UNHCR’s Risk Management Network, collaborating closely with the Chief Risk Officer and other colleagues to enhance the risk culture across the organization. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying systemic issues that necessitate a corporate-wide response and sharing best practices in risk management. The incumbent will engage with various internal stakeholders, including the Bureau and Headquarters, and may also interact with external stakeholders such as government offices, partners, and donor organizations. The primary focus will be on supporting operations in risk management, reviewing existing systems, and making recommendations for improvements. The officer will be responsible for ensuring that risk management practices are integrated into decision-making processes and that the organization adheres to its regulatory framework, including the UN Charter and UNHCR policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Risk Management Officer will be responsible for the effective implementation of UNHCR’s risk management strategy, providing guidance to colleagues on managing risks and complying with policies. Key duties include coordinating the risk management process, identifying and assessing risks, facilitating risk mitigation actions, and maintaining the Risk Register. The officer will also deliver training and capacity-building initiatives for UNHCR teams and partners, monitor participation in training, and advocate for best practices in risk management. Additionally, the officer will produce reports on significant risk management findings and recommendations, support oversight entities, and represent the risk management function in meetings. For in-situ positions, the officer will facilitate risk review exercises and assess methodologies related to risk management activities. Bureau positions will involve supporting regional Risk Management Advisers and contributing to regional risk reports, while HQ positions will focus on broader integration of risk management methodologies across the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, or 5 years with a graduate degree, or 4 years with a doctorate. Essential qualifications include experience in risk management, quality assurance, and monitoring, as well as strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Candidates should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to develop and deliver training. Experience in UN or humanitarian field operations is desirable, particularly in complex environments. Knowledge of UNHCR regulations and oversight mechanisms is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Business Administration, International Affairs, Political Science, Risk Management, or a related field. Relevant certifications in Risk Management are also essential for this role.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in risk management and quality assurance, with a strong emphasis on analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex interrelated issues. Candidates should have a track record of working in high-risk operational environments and demonstrate the ability to influence decision-making at senior levels.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, along with knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station, which is Amharic in Ethiopia. Additional languages are considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is open only to Ethiopian nationals, and women are strongly encouraged to apply to promote gender balance within UNHCR. The role is classified as a National Professional Officer position, and candidates may be subjected to assessments, including written or oral interviews. The position is full-time, and the target start date is July 1, 202

• The living conditions in Addis Ababa include limited medical facilities, and candidates with ongoing medical conditions should be advised accordingly. The position also requires functional clearance.