Director of Mission Support

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). MONUSCO was established to support the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in its efforts to stabilize the country and promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The mission operates with a significant number of personnel and has a mandate that includes various aspects of peacekeeping and support to the local government. MONUSCO is committed to the principles of the United Nations and aims to foster a safe and secure environment for the Congolese people. The mission has been operational since 2010 and continues to adapt to the evolving needs of the region, focusing on the protection of civilians, support for the political process, and the promotion of human rights.

Job Overview:
The Director of Mission Support (DMS) plays a crucial role in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). This position is responsible for providing strategic oversight and guidance on all administrative, financial, contractual, and operational support activities within the mission. The DMS acts as the principal adviser to the Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) and Head of Mission (HoM), ensuring that the mission's resources are effectively managed and aligned with its mandate. The DMS is expected to contribute to the mission's planning processes, ensuring that operational support is integrated into the overall mission strategy. This role requires a deep understanding of UN regulations and policies, as well as the ability to foster collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve mission objectives. The DMS will also oversee the implementation of the Delegation of Authority Framework, ensuring compliance and accountability in resource management. The position demands strong leadership skills, as the DMS will guide senior support staff and engage with national authorities on logistical and administrative matters. The DMS will also be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that promote continuous improvement in service delivery to mission clients, ensuring that all processes are efficient and cost-effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Mission Support will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: acting as the principal adviser to the HoM on administrative, financial, and operational matters; managing human, financial, and physical resources allocated to the mission; contributing to the implementation of the mission's mandate through effective operational support; participating in mission planning processes; ensuring compliance with the Delegation of Authority Framework; establishing robust policies and procedures for budget, accounting, procurement, and human resources management; overseeing reporting methodologies for budget and performance; initiating the development of mission support work plans; ensuring coordination of support activities; engaging with UN headquarters and service centers; liaising with national authorities; providing guidance and support to senior staff; developing strategies for mission transition; managing the transfer of assets to host authorities; promoting staff welfare; representing the mission at various meetings and events; and performing other related duties as required by the HoM or DFS.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in administration, finance, supply chain management, and related fields. The position requires advanced knowledge of UN regulations and policies, as well as proven leadership and management skills. The DMS must demonstrate the ability to provide strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring effective resource management and compliance with organizational standards. Strong negotiation skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to build relationships with multiple stakeholders are essential. The DMS should also exhibit a commitment to gender balance and inclusivity in staffing and operations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in management, business or public administration, supply chain management, human resources management, finance, accounting, or a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of mission support operations and for effectively managing the diverse functions within the role.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of fifteen (15) years of experience in administration, finance, supply chain management, information and communication technology, or related fields. At least eight (8) years of management experience with responsibilities in human, procurement, and financial resources management is required. Experience in ensuring compliance with support-related regulations in decentralized operational environments is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience leading change management initiatives and supporting complex field operations, particularly in conflict and post-conflict settings. A minimum of five (5) years of experience in managing cross-functional support teams is also required, along with a proven track record of developing strategic solutions based on client needs and addressing operational disruptions.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of French is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, which outlines the minimum required levels for each skill in these languages. Effective communication in both languages is crucial for collaboration and coordination within the mission and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kinshasa, which is designated as a family duty station by the United Nations Secretariat, allowing staff to relocate their family members. The job does not specify a deadline for applications, and it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of the selection process. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the responsibilities associated with a senior leadership position within a complex and dynamic operational environment.