Associate Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts aimed at reducing disaster risks. The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, addressing both developed and less developed countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) and has a workforce of over 160 staff members based in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization is dedicated to guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, while also supporting regional and national efforts to implement the framework. UNDRR actively works to catalyze action and enhance global awareness regarding disaster risk reduction, collaborating with UN Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the scientific community.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme Management Officer position is integral to the UNDRR's mission, focusing on disaster risk reduction and related initiatives. The role involves conducting basic research on various aspects of programs and operations, which includes collecting, analyzing, and presenting statistical data and information from diverse sources. The officer will provide substantive support for policy coordination and evaluation functions, which entails reviewing and analyzing emerging issues and trends, as well as participating in evaluations and research activities. The position also requires assisting in consulting assignments, planning and facilitating workshops, and developing action plans for clients to manage change effectively. The officer will contribute to the preparation of various written outputs, such as background papers, analytical notes, and sections of reports. Additionally, the role supports the implementation and monitoring of assigned programs/projects and provides substantive support to governments and partners involved in risk reduction and resilient recovery efforts. The officer will also be responsible for organizing and providing administrative support for meetings and conferences, undertaking outreach activities, and participating in field missions. Overall, the position demands a proactive approach to managing multiple responsibilities and collaborating with various stakeholders to achieve the organization's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Programme Management Officer will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting basic research on selected aspects of programs and operations; collecting, analyzing, and presenting statistical data and information from diverse sources; providing substantive support for policy coordination and evaluation functions; assisting in consulting assignments by planning and facilitating workshops; contributing to the preparation of written outputs such as background papers and reports; supporting the implementation and monitoring of assigned programs/projects; providing administrative and substantive support to meetings and conferences; undertaking outreach activities and participating in training workshops; participating in field missions and providing support for data collection; hiring and supervising consultants; coordinating activities related to budget funding and preparing related documents; and performing other duties as required. The role requires a strong commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications to be considered for the Associate Programme Management Officer position. This includes a deep understanding of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The ability to identify and analyze issues, assist with data collection, and conduct independent research is essential. Candidates should demonstrate conceptual analytical and evaluative skills, as well as the ability to apply judgment in various contexts. A commitment to gender perspectives and human rights-based approaches is crucial, as is the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders. Strong planning and organizing skills are also required, with an emphasis on developing clear goals, adjusting priorities, and efficiently managing time and resources.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as urban development, environmental studies, sustainable development, international cooperation, development economics, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of disaster risk reduction and related fields.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management specifically related to disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, or a related area. Notably, candidates who have successfully passed the United Nations Young Professionals Programme examination (YPP) or the G to P Examination (G to P) are exempt from this experience requirement. Additionally, at least one year of work experience in the Latin American region is required, and experience working with subnational and local governments is considered desirable.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates should possess the required level of proficiency in these languages according to the UN Language Framework. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, while Portuguese is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The Associate Programme Management Officer position is a project role that may involve specific contract durations and seniority levels. It is essential to note whether the position is full-time or part-time, and whether the recruitment process is open to international or national candidates. Compensation and benefits details may also be provided, ensuring that candidates are aware of the terms of employment and any additional perks associated with the role.