Risk Manager (P-4)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of belonging and growth within a diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Risk and Compliance Manager will play a crucial role in leading the strengthening of risk assurance and compliance efforts within the UNICEF Venezuela country office. This position involves providing expertise and support in managing risks, which includes the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of risk management practices at various levels. The role is essential in ensuring that UNICEF can effectively respond to the complex humanitarian and operational challenges in Venezuela, particularly in light of the ongoing crises affecting children and vulnerable populations. The manager will work closely with government counterparts, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and other humanitarian partners to deliver timely and coordinated assistance, thereby making a significant impact on the lives of children and families in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Risk and Compliance Manager will be responsible for several key functions, including:

• Providing risk management support to ensure that risks are identified, assessed, and mitigated effectively.
• Offering compliance support to ensure adherence to organizational policies and regulations.
• Managing fraud risk by implementing strategies to detect and prevent fraudulent activities.
• Providing oversight and advisory services to management on risk-related matters.
• Creating awareness and building capacity within the organization regarding risk management practices.
• Offering context-specific risk assurance and advisory support to enhance the effectiveness of UNICEF's operations in Venezuela. These responsibilities require a proactive approach to risk management and a commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed Advanced Degree (Master's or higher) in Business Administration or Financial Management. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least 8 years of continuous professional work experience in Risk and Compliance or a directly relevant area, with several years in internal audit. Experience in financial management, particularly in developing and implementing financial control systems, enterprise risk management (ERM), audits, and internal control, preferably with international organizations, NGOs, or the UN, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate knowledge of accounting and finance, strategic management, and possess strong analytical skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an Advanced Degree (Master's or higher) in Business Administration or Financial Management. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field may be accepted if accompanied by additional relevant work experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of risk management and compliance in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in Risk and Compliance, with a strong emphasis on internal audit practices. Candidates should have a proven track record in financial management and the development of financial control systems, as well as experience in enterprise risk management and audits. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or the UN in similar roles is highly desirable, especially in contexts characterized by fragility and humanitarian challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language (such as Arabic, Chinese, French, or Russian) is considered a desirable asset. Proficiency in multiple languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of UNICEF.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary assignment for a duration of 6 months. It is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, which may require additional vetting and background checks. UNICEF promotes a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and abuse. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. UNICEF provides a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that mobility is a condition of international professional employment with UNICEF, and all staff may be called upon to support humanitarian responses as needed.