Director, Internal Oversight Services

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is the largest UN operation in the Middle East, established to support Palestine refugees. With over 30,000 staff members, UNRWA operates in five areas of operation and is primarily funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual donations. The agency's mission is to help Palestine refugees achieve their full potential in human development despite the challenging circumstances they face. UNRWA is currently undergoing a modernization agenda aimed at enhancing its agility and adaptability while remaining committed to its core mandate. The agency is focused on strengthening partnerships, embracing modern technologies, promoting environmental sustainability, and prioritizing inclusive programming to empower vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Director of Internal Oversight Services (DIOS) plays a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of governance, risk management, and control processes within UNRWA. This position involves setting clear objectives for the department, developing and implementing a long-term strategy for internal audits and evaluations, and leading audit investigations. The Director is responsible for ensuring that the department adheres to professional standards and ethical codes while fostering a learning environment for staff development. The role requires collaboration with senior management and other UN agencies, as well as regular reporting to the Commissioner-General and the Advisory Committee on Internal Oversight. The Director will also oversee the agency's capacity to safeguard its resources and address any irregularities, including fraud and corruption.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Establish clear work objectives for DIOS and ensure effective performance reviews and feedback mechanisms.
• Develop and implement a long-term strategy and risk-based internal audit and evaluation plan aligned with the Agency's strategic objectives.
• Lead and supervise audit investigations and evaluations, ensuring effective collaboration within DIOS and with other agency departments.
• Direct the development of high-quality reports and recommendations on internal audits and evaluations, monitoring management's implementation of these recommendations.
• Provide independent assurance and advice on governance, risk management, and control processes as the Chief Audit Executive of UNRWA.
• Safeguard UNRWA's financial and other resources by assessing fraud risks and recommending preventive measures.
• Conduct independent strategic evaluations and align the evaluation program with the Agency's priorities.
• Represent UNRWA at oversight-related meetings and collaborate with other UN agencies on mutual interests.
• Coordinate responses to complaints from staff and beneficiaries, implementing policies for whistleblower protection.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in public or business administration, auditing, finance, economics, social sciences, law, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Professional certification in at least one oversight function (audit, evaluation, or investigation) from a recognized body is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to handle complex issues with diplomacy and confidentiality.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) from an accredited institution in relevant fields such as public or business administration, auditing, finance, economics, social sciences, law, or related areas is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying experience.

Experience:
At least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in oversight functions, including at least eight years in a supervisory role. Candidates must have two continuous years of relevant international experience outside of UNRWA and their country of citizenship. Experience with risk management in large organizations is desirable, along with knowledge of UN financial rules and audit guidelines.

Languages:
English is required at a minimum Level III proficiency, while Arabic is desirable at Level II proficiency. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages, particularly in writing and speaking.

Additional Notes:
The position is a two-year contract with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of six years. The incumbent will be required to travel within UNRWA's areas of operation in the Middle East. Applications must be submitted through UNRWA's online recruitment system, and only fully completed applications will be considered. UNRWA is committed to gender balance and encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities. The agency does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and maintains a non-smoking work environment.