Senior Operations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to help implement projects and provide services in various sectors. The organization focuses on sustainable development, infrastructure, and project management, working in over 80 countries. UNOPS aims to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing efficient and effective project management services. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that respects and values diversity.

Job Overview:
The Senior Operations Officer plays a crucial role in the efficient functioning of UNOPS' Legal Group, particularly in supporting critical dispute resolution matters. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with complex legal administrative processes within an international organization, enhancing professional growth in areas such as operational support, data analysis, knowledge management, and stakeholder coordination. The incumbent will independently manage assigned operational portfolios and workflows, prioritize tasks, interpret and apply relevant policies and procedures, and identify operational risks while recommending appropriate actions. The role is pivotal in ensuring effective communication, knowledge management, and service delivery in the administration of dispute resolution matters, contributing to the overall management of the portfolio by systematically monitoring and addressing operational, contractual, financial, procedural, and information-management requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operational Support and Coordination: Provide comprehensive operational and administrative support to the Office of the General Counsel and the Legal Group, focusing on the Dispute Resolution Practice. Oversee the administration of contracts, purchase orders, invoices, and payments, ensuring compliance with policies and timely processing. Support procurement processes for external counsel and service providers, manage legal submissions and correspondence, and coordinate with external stakeholders. Serve as the primary operational contact for external service providers, resolving operational issues and escalating legal matters as necessary. Coordinate responses to audits and support day-to-day operations for the Management Specialist and General Counsel.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Maintain the operational portfolio-management framework for the Dispute Resolution Practice, including trackers and monitoring tools. Conduct periodic portfolio analysis to identify risks and recommend corrective actions. Collect and analyze operational data to support decision-making and prepare reports for management. Develop and maintain risk-mitigation strategies and provide regular briefings on portfolio status and operational risks.
• Knowledge Management and Knowledge Sharing: Support the Legal Group in creating and managing documents and knowledge products. Set up project-management tools and maintain case and knowledge-management systems. Facilitate knowledge sharing within the Legal Group and analyze lessons learned to improve processes and guidance.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Administrative Management, or related fields. A Master’s degree in these areas is desirable and may substitute for two years of required experience. Candidates should possess strong administrative, operational, and project management skills, with a focus on legal administration and procurement support. Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office is essential, along with experience in contract administration and invoice management. Familiarity with UN processes and systems is an advantage, as is experience with AI tools.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Business Administration, Public Administration, or Administrative Management. A Master’s degree in these fields is preferred and can substitute for two years of the required experience, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of relevant professional experience is required, which may be reduced based on academic credentials. Experience in administration, operations, office management, legal administration, and procurement support is essential. Candidates should have experience using Google Workspace and Microsoft Office, and familiarity with international organizations or multicultural settings is preferred. Experience with UN organizations and knowledge of UN/UNOPS processes is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French and Spanish is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both written and spoken forms, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a mid-level role with a contract duration of one year, with the possibility of extension. It is a remote position, allowing for flexibility in work location. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. The organization conducts background checks on final candidates and does not accept unsolicited resumes. Applications must be submitted before the deadline of 13-Sep-2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.