Project Manager for Building Renovation

Job Posting Organization:
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established in 1874, with 192 member countries. The UPU serves as the primary forum for cooperation among postal sector players, ensuring a universal network of up-to-date products and services. The organization aims to promote and coordinate international postal services, enhance the quality of service, and foster the development of postal networks worldwide. The UPU is headquartered in Bern, Switzerland, and operates with a diverse workforce committed to improving postal services globally.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager for Building Renovation will be responsible for the strategic direction, planning, design, and execution of a significant building renovation project under the supervision of the DACAB Director. This role involves overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization to completion, which is expected to take approximately six years. The incumbent will manage human, financial, and technical resources, ensuring that the project aligns with the UPU's objectives related to workplace modernization, sustainability, accessibility, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The Project Manager will provide strategic guidance, technical knowledge, and advice on quality, costs, and deadlines, ensuring effective coordination across various directorates and with external stakeholders. This position requires a strong execution-oriented focus, with responsibilities including the preparation of a loan application to the Swiss government, managing procurement processes, and ensuring business continuity during the renovation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Formulate, implement, and oversee the substantive work programme and activities of the building project, ensuring timely progress within budget and quality standards.
• Oversee the loan application process and coordinate design and construction activities, including procurement management and scheduling.
• Assist in defining organizational needs for a modern workspace and translate them into project requirements.
• Establish and maintain the Project Management Plan, ensuring adherence to guidelines and performance standards.
• Manage project costs and coordinate with the Project Board for contract variations and resource allocation.
• Ensure project requirements are met by contractors and stakeholders, linking organizational needs with technical specifications.
• Examine risks at technical and management levels, providing expert advice and developing risk mitigation proposals.
• Oversee financial and administrative planning, including budget preparation and performance monitoring.
• Set up a cost control function to verify estimates and ensure budget oversight. 1
• Coordinate work within the team and with stakeholders, maintaining records and preparing reports for the Project Board. 1
• Facilitate information sharing and needs assessment planning across directorates. 1
• Review contractor deliverables and ensure adherence to project phases and standards. 1
• Ensure high-quality outputs from the Project Team, providing substantive reviews and recommendations. 1
• Anticipate and resolve problems proactively, facilitating solutions with stakeholders. 1
• Prepare regular progress reports for internal and external stakeholders, highlighting strategic issues and implementation status. 1
• Assist in operationalizing the communications strategy related to the project. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in engineering, architecture, quantity surveying, or a related field.
• Professional certification or membership in chartered institutes is desirable.
• Significant experience in planning and implementing large-scale construction and renovation projects (USD 30 million and above).
• Senior-level responsibility for resource planning and project management, with experience in cost control.
• Experience in the not-for-profit sector and international environments is desirable.
• Familiarity with Swiss contracting and legal environments is advantageous.
• Proven experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder project implementations.
• Proficiency in relevant IT systems such as ERP and Project Management software.
• Experience liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities is required. 1
• Familiarity with financial and business administration is necessary. 1
• Experience in due diligence and procurement processes is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in engineering, architecture, quantity surveying, or a related field from an accredited institution. Professional certification or membership in relevant chartered institutes is desirable, indicating a recognized level of expertise in the field.

Experience:
At least 12 years of international experience in two or more relevant areas is required. This experience should include direct responsibility for large-scale construction and renovation projects, demonstrating a strong background in project management and resource planning.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and both are required for this position. Proficiency in German is desirable, particularly given the project's location in Bern. Candidates must meet the UN Language Framework standards for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a fixed-term contract for three years, with an annual salary of 117,953 USD, subject to post adjustment based on currency fluctuations. The UPU prioritizes internal promotions and encourages applications from diverse candidates, including those from minority groups and individuals with disabilities. Candidates must provide accurate contact details for communication during the selection process. Background checks may be conducted to validate educational and professional records, and candidates with serious considerations for selection may be subject to additional scrutiny regarding their professional conduct. The UPU is committed to maintaining a non-smoking environment and providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.