Section Chief, Facilities and Administrative Services Branch

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 has a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in areas related to reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population dynamics. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its response to a complex global environment, emphasizing resilience and renewal through a focus on four interconnected outcomes: ending unmet needs for family planning, preventing maternal deaths, eliminating gender-based violence, and adapting to demographic changes through evidence-based policies.

Job Overview:
The Section Chief in the Facilities and Administrative Services Branch (FASB) plays a crucial role in overseeing a wide range of support services related to facilities and asset management, travel, mail, and administrative services for both Headquarters and Field Offices. The incumbent will report directly to the Chief of the Branch and will supervise a team consisting of one professional and four general service staff. This position requires maintaining professional contacts with various stakeholders, including staff at UNFPA Headquarters, Development Coordination Office (DCO), UNDP, and other sister agencies. The Section Chief is expected to provide professional support, analyses, and information while ensuring effective communication and collaboration with both internal and external partners. The role is pivotal in leading the implementation of the Business Operations Strategy (BOS) and Common Back Office (CBO) initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring that UNFPA's administrative services align with its strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Section Chief include:

• Providing strategic guidance and leadership in administrative and common services, developing and maintaining comprehensive policies and procedures, ensuring compliance, and negotiating global Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Leading the implementation of the UN efficiency agenda, representing UNFPA on UNSDG Task Teams, and guiding the Business Operations Analyst in implementing BOS/CBO across all field locations.
• Overseeing global fleet management, negotiating with service providers, and implementing innovative solutions for vehicle leasing and tracking.
• Managing and coaching staff in the section, fostering team development, and ensuring the smooth operation of mail, courier, and pouch services.
• Serving as acting or replacement for the Chief of Branch as required and performing any other activities necessary to support the UNFPA mandate and strategy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Business, Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Public Administration, or a related discipline. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of experience in management at both national and international levels, ideally including direct field experience. Knowledge of the UN common system and experience with the United Nations Efficiency Agenda, particularly in relation to BOS implementation, is highly desirable. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Business, Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or Public Administration. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of administrative and operational management within a global organization like UNFPA.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience in management roles at both national and international levels. This experience should ideally include direct field or in-country experience, which is vital for understanding the operational challenges faced by UNFPA in various contexts. Familiarity with the UN common system and the UN Efficiency Agenda, particularly in relation to the implementation of Business Operations Strategy (BOS), is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile, particularly in a diverse and multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing 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 to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity. The selection and appointment process may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, visa issuance, and other administrative requirements.