Risk and Compliance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing thousands of staff dedicated to improving reproductive health and rights. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in areas related to family planning, maternal health, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that every individual has access to the necessary resources and support to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and rights, thereby fostering a world where human rights are respected and upheld.

Job Overview:
The Risk and Compliance Specialist position at UNFPA Somalia Country Office is crucial for implementing the organization's risk management framework and strategies. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Representative, Deputy Representative, International Operations Manager, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, and Resource Mobilization Specialist. The primary responsibility of this role is to conduct detailed risk analyses and provide support to ensure that risks, particularly fraud risks, are managed effectively. The specialist will play a vital role in enhancing operational compliance and ensuring that UNFPA's programs are implemented efficiently and transparently. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks, as well as developing comprehensive strategies to mitigate these risks in alignment with UNFPA policies and procedures. The Risk and Compliance Specialist will also be responsible for fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within the organization, ensuring that all operations adhere to established guidelines and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operational effectiveness, programme compliance, risk management, and quality assurance: Ensure compliance with established policies and procedures, providing inputs for improving business management effectiveness. Regularly assess the Country Office's performance in relation to program finance and expenditures, identifying potential risks. Support quality assurance reviews and follow up on audit recommendations. Assist in developing oversight mechanisms for operations to ensure transparency and accountability. Identify internal control weaknesses and propose measures to mitigate them. Alert management to deviations from established rules and propose remedial measures. Establish a tracking system for payments to ensure compliance with UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council sanctions.
• Implementing Partner (IP) Oversight and Quality Assurance: Conduct due diligence for vetting IPs, verifying project proposals, and assessing risks. Ensure that mitigation measures are assigned and resourced. Oversee the implementation of the Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT) and develop the annual IP Assurance Plan. Quality assure IP work plan budgets and financial reporting.
• Partnerships and Inter-Agency Coordination: Prepare materials for donor briefings on compliance with UN Security Council sanctions and coordinate risk management activities among partners.
• Learning, Knowledge Management and Self Development: Contribute to the development of risk management training curricula and commit to personal development in the field of risk management.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, law, or a related field. A minimum of five years of professional experience in risk management, audit, investigation, or project management within an international or governmental organization is essential. Knowledge of international risk management standards such as ISO 31000 and COSO is required. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and persuasion skills are necessary, along with proven ability to build effective partnerships with diverse stakeholders. Experience in volatile environments and knowledge of UN internal control and risk management procedures are advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, law, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of risk management and compliance within the context of international organizations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in relevant fields such as risk management, audit, investigation, or project management. Experience working in international or governmental organizations is preferred, particularly in high-risk environments. Familiarity with UN procedures and standards is advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. A working knowledge of other official UN languages is desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the international context of UNFPA's operations.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.