Director, Country Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is a self-financing entity of the United Nations that provides project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to help governments and organizations achieve their development goals. Established in 1973, UNOPS operates in over 80 countries, employing more than 1,500 personnel worldwide. The organization focuses on sustainable development, infrastructure improvement, and capacity building, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNOPS is committed to transparency, efficiency, and equitable public management, working closely with various stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Country Office is responsible for driving strategic leadership and operational excellence within the UNOPS Panama Country Office. This role involves overseeing the delivery of projects and services that align with national priorities and contribute to sustainable development. The Director will manage a diverse team, ensuring high-quality operations while fostering partnerships with government entities and other stakeholders. The position requires a leader who can inspire and develop teams, coordinate complex operations, and implement innovative solutions to enhance service delivery. The Director will also represent UNOPS in high-level forums and engage with key stakeholders to promote the organization's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• People Leadership: Create and promote a culture of trust, empowerment, and accountability within the Country Office. Foster an inclusive work environment, ensuring adherence to UNOPS standards of conduct. Plan and manage a diverse workforce to optimize performance.
• Country Office Portfolio Management: Develop and implement the Country Office strategy, establish priorities, and oversee project delivery. Monitor progress towards objectives and ensure financial sustainability.
• Alliance Building and Networking: Identify opportunities for collaboration with national governments and partners. Strengthen strategic partnerships through effective communication and advocacy.
• Service Delivery and Quality Assurance: Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of projects, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance with UNOPS policies.
• Representation and Inter-Agency Coordination: Represent UNOPS in relevant meetings and forums, contributing to the UN Country Team's initiatives and promoting UNOPS' role in achieving sustainable development goals.
• Risk Management: Champion risk management practices, ensuring informed decision-making and compliance with organizational standards.
• Knowledge Management and Innovation: Lead the introduction of innovative practices and share best practices across the organization to enhance project delivery.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with 12 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with 10 years of relevant experience is required.
• Relevant experience in strategic and managerial leadership in public affairs, management, business development, and operations in large organizations or international contexts is essential.
• Experience working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in developing countries is desired, along with experience in development or humanitarian contexts.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in any discipline. A Master’s degree is preferred, particularly in fields related to management, public administration, or international relations. Relevant certifications in project management or leadership may also be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 to 12 years of relevant experience in leadership roles, particularly in strategic management, public affairs, and operations within large organizations or international settings. Experience in the UN system or similar environments is highly desirable, especially in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required, with intermediate proficiency in French being desirable. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms in the required languages, as this role involves significant interaction with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the senior level (P-5) and is a full-time role with a contract duration of one year, with the possibility of extension. The role is based in Panama City, Panama, and involves significant responsibilities in managing operations and partnerships. UNOPS is committed to diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women and individuals from diverse backgrounds. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and harassment, and background checks are conducted for all final candidates.