International Operations Manager (IOM)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established to address population and development issues, 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 focuses on four interconnected outcomes: ending unmet needs for family planning, preventing maternal deaths, eliminating gender-based violence, and adapting to demographic changes. UNFPA is committed to the principles of human rights and sustainable development, and it seeks to empower individuals and communities to achieve these goals. The organization emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, ensuring that they are upheld in all operations and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The International Operations Manager (IOM) plays a crucial role in supporting the delivery of the UNFPA country programme, which is aligned with the 2030 Agenda. This position is responsible for leading strategic planning for UNFPA operations, setting management targets, and overseeing outsourced services. The IOM manages a diverse portfolio that includes financial services, procurement, IT, travel and logistics, and common services. The role requires collaboration with regional experts to ensure the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of UNFPA premises and personnel, as well as coordination with other UN agencies to implement the Business Operations Strategy (BOS). The IOM also provides strategic advice to the Representative on compliance, cost-effectiveness, and innovative responses to complex challenges. The ultimate goal is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Country Office operations, ensuring that UNFPA can deliver high-quality results in line with its mission to serve the most vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The IOM is accountable for several key areas of responsibility: A. Strategic Direction of UNFPA Operations: Contribute to the delivery of the country programme, ensuring operations are effective, transparent, and compliant with policies. Set and meet annual and long-term management targets. Improve business management effectiveness and efficiency, fostering innovation and operational excellence. Drive knowledge management practices and build staff capacity through coaching and mentoring. B. Day-to-Day Management of UNFPA’s Operations: Ensure the integrity of financial systems, oversee budget requirements, and apply rules consistently. Supervise operations staff, promoting a culture of growth and accountability. Oversee official travel, logistics, and procurement services, ensuring high-quality support. Monitor financial exception reports for unusual activities. C. Facilitate Human Resources Administration: Coordinate timely HR administration, provide advice on HR processes, and implement global HR procedures. D. Support and Coordination of UNFPA’s Common Services: Provide policy support and advocacy for the development and management of common services with other UN organizations. E. Safety and Security of UNFPA Staff and Premises: Ensure compliance with security standards and represent UNFPA in security management teams. F. Partnership Building on Operational Issues: Represent UNFPA in inter-agency meetings, promoting cooperation and identifying new approaches to enhance delivery capacities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate university degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Management, or a related field. They should have a minimum of five years of experience in development within governmental, multilateral, or civil society organizations, including at least three years in managing teams in complex settings. Strong relationship-building skills, a focus on impact and results, and the ability to respond positively to feedback are essential. Candidates should have solid knowledge in procurement, financial and human resources management, and the ability to lead business process re-engineering and strategic planning. Experience in international development and a commitment to UN principles are crucial, along with demonstrated ability to sustain partnerships and provide strategic vision.

Educational Background:
A postgraduate university degree in relevant fields such as Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Management, or other related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to manage operations effectively within the UNFPA framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in development, particularly in a governmental, multilateral, or civil society organization. This experience should include at least three years in a managerial role within a complex organizational setting. Field experience is essential, and experience in humanitarian contexts is considered an asset. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to lead teams, manage operations, and implement strategic initiatives effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in regions where UNFPA operates, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable 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 to applicants with disabilities upon request. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements.