Director of Mission Support (DMS)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). MONUSCO was established to support the Congolese government in maintaining peace and stability in the region. The mission operates with a focus on protecting civilians, supporting the political process, and assisting in the stabilization of the country. MONUSCO is a significant presence in the DRC, with a mandate that includes various operational and administrative functions. The organization aims to foster sustainable peace and development in the region, and it employs a diverse workforce to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Director of Mission Support (DMS) plays a critical role in the overall management and operational support of the MONUSCO mission. This position requires a strategic leader who can effectively advise the Head of Mission (HoM) on administrative, financial, contractual, and technical matters. The DMS is responsible for ensuring that the mission's resources are managed efficiently and effectively, contributing to the successful implementation of the mission's mandate. The DMS will oversee various support functions, including human resources, finance, supply chain management, and service delivery, ensuring that all operations align with UN regulations and policies. The role also involves participating in mission planning processes and maintaining communication with various stakeholders to ensure cohesive support across all mission components. The DMS will lead initiatives to optimize service delivery and promote continuous improvement in mission support activities, ensuring that the mission can adapt to changing operational needs and challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The DMS will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: acting as the principal adviser to the HoM on administrative and operational matters; managing the mission's human, financial, and physical resources; contributing to the implementation of the mission's mandate; overseeing the establishment of policies and procedures consistent with UN regulations; ensuring effective budget management and reporting; developing and implementing mission support work plans; coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure integrated service delivery; managing cross-functional support teams; providing guidance and support to senior staff; and representing the mission at various meetings and events. The DMS will also be responsible for fostering teamwork and communication among staff, promoting the welfare of mission personnel, and ensuring compliance with organizational regulations and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in administration, finance, supply chain management, and human resources. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professional competence and mastery of principles related to global support operations. Strong negotiation skills, the ability to influence others, and a proven track record of effective leadership in complex environments are essential. Candidates should also exhibit outstanding verbal and written communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to gender balance in staffing. The DMS must be able to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure, demonstrating integrity and reliability in all aspects of their role.

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 field 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 essential to ensure that the DMS has the necessary knowledge and skills to manage the complex operational environment of the mission effectively.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of fifteen (15) years of experience in administration, finance, supply chain management, 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 a decentralized operational environment is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience leading change management initiatives and supporting complex field operations, particularly in conflict and post-conflict environments. A minimum of five (5) years of demonstrated performance in managing cross-functional support teams is also required, along with experience in developing strategic solutions based on client needs and addressing global 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 must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English, as well as a good command of French, particularly in a professional context. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication within the UN system and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kinshasa, which has been designated as a family duty station by the United Nations Secretariat, allowing staff to relocate their family members. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process will adhere to the principles of fairness and transparency, and candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications and experience. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.