Chief of Section, Programme Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) was established in 1997 with the mission to eliminate the threat posed by mines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). UNMAS operates under the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) and is responsible for coordinating United Nations mine action, leading operational responses at the country level, and supporting the development of standards, policies, and norms. The organization works under UN legislative mandates from both the General Assembly and the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, responding to specific requests for support from the UN Secretary-General or designated officials. UNMAS has a global presence and collaborates with various stakeholders, including member states, donors, and other UN agencies to enhance safety and security in conflict-affected areas. For more information, visit www.unmas.org.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section (TMAT) will play a pivotal role in the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Threat Mitigation Advisory Team (TMAT) within UNMAS. This position involves providing policy guidance and support on IED and explosive ordnance (EO) threat mitigation, developing conceptual strategies, and managing the implementation of overall strategies and policies. The Chief of Section will lead and oversee the implementation and quality assurance of advisory, training, and capacity development activities, ensuring adherence to international standards and UN policies. The role requires effective coordination with various UN organizations, donors, and agencies, as well as engagement with member states to build partnerships and ensure technical support is delivered effectively. The Chief of Section will also be responsible for preparing position papers and reports for intergovernmental bodies, ensuring high-quality outputs, and managing the work programme of the Section, including budget preparation and staff performance evaluations. This position demands strong leadership, communication, and programmatic expertise to address emerging issues related to explosive threats and to represent the organization at various international and regional meetings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Providing policy guidance and support on IED and EO threat mitigation.
• Leading, planning, and overseeing the implementation of advisory, training, and capacity development activities.
• Managing and supervising the work programme of the Section, ensuring timely and quality outputs.
• Engaging with member states and donors to build partnerships and secure funding.
• Preparing position papers and reports for intergovernmental bodies.
• Ensuring outputs meet high-quality standards and comply with relevant mandates.
• Preparing inputs for the work programme, determining priorities, and allocating resources.
• Carrying out administrative tasks necessary for the Section's functioning, including budget preparation and staff evaluations.
• Recruiting staff while considering geographical and gender balance. 1
• Fostering teamwork and communication among staff. 1
• Representing the organization at inter-agency meetings and producing written briefs for stakeholders. 1
• Participating in relevant international, regional, or national meetings on explosive threats.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a recognized national qualification as an EOD officer and IEDD technician certification. Additionally, they should have a strong understanding of the substantive field of IED threat mitigation and ammunition management. The ability to produce and review technical reports and papers is essential, along with a thorough knowledge of UN rules, regulations, and policies. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, technological awareness, leadership, and vision in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business, public policy, administration, international relations, peace and security, law, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Graduation from a military staff academy or similar law enforcement training institution is desirable.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in programme administration, management, or a related field. This includes at least seven years of experience in Post-Blast Investigations (PBI), covering forensic evidence collection, exploitation of materials and devices, and generating technical intelligence for threat analysis. Additionally, a minimum of two years of experience in a United Nations peace operation or similar international organization in the field is required. Experience in drafting policy and doctrine related to IED threat mitigation, as well as working with national authorities on ammunition management, is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in all language skills.

Additional Notes:
This position is available for a fixed term until 31/12/2026, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and the mandate's extension. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to a non-smoking environment and provides reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities upon request. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various activities or offices of the United Nations as needed.