Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office, based in Nairobi, Kenya, oversees the delivery of over 250 projects across 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected settings. The office is supported by more than 1,000 personnel across five multi-country offices in North, West, Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa, as well as the Horn of Africa. UNOPS aims to advance national priorities through strategic initiatives in various sectors including Climate Action, Health, Infrastructure, Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security, and more. The organization promotes excellence in project delivery and contributes to sustainable infrastructure and better quality of life for communities across the continent.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme (HoP) is a senior leadership role responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of programs within the UNOPS framework. The HoP will report directly to the Multi-Country or Country Office Director and will be tasked with developing strategies to enhance UNOPS's competencies in sustainable project management. This role involves overseeing all stages of programming to ensure results are achieved in the areas of responsibility. The HoP will also be responsible for establishing priorities, managing operational risks, and ensuring compliance with organizational strategies and standards. The position requires a proactive approach to program governance, implementation, and monitoring, as well as the ability to analyze political and development trends to inform UNOPS engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Governance, Implementation and Monitoring: Accept responsibility for project portfolio oversight, establish and execute programme implementation plans, monitor and supervise timely and cost-effective implementation, ensure compliance with UNOPS standards, and mentor Project Managers.
• Programme Development and Planning: Develop the strategy for the Country Office, support the Director in ensuring financial sustainability, analyze political trends, manage the preparation of programme documents, and act as the Gender Focal Point.
• Manage Programme Resources: Assess needs of national governments, plan and propose required resources, manage programme resources ethically, and promote teamwork and collaboration.
• Partnerships, Networking and Advocacy: Build strategic partnerships, support business development, and represent the Office in inter-agency discussions.
• Risk Management: Drive informed decisions, manage risks proactively, and ensure corporate reporting.
• Knowledge Management and Innovation: Incorporate best practices, lead capacity building, and recommend policy changes.

Required Qualifications:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with 12 years of relevant experience OR Master’s degree (or equivalent) with 10 years of relevant experience.
• Desired: PRINCE2® Foundation/Practitioner certification is an asset.
• Relevant experience in strategic and managerial leadership in public affairs, management, or related areas is required. Experience in multicultural environments or UN system organizations is desired.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Master’s degree. The educational background should be complemented by extensive experience in relevant fields, particularly in strategic and managerial roles.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree or 10 years with a Master’s degree. Experience in strategic leadership, public affairs, and operations in large organizations is essential. Experience in development or humanitarian contexts is also desired, particularly in multicultural environments or within UN system organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a Senior Level role (ICS 12) with a contract type of Staff - IP - FTA for a duration of 1 year. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of the announcement. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Background checks are conducted for all final candidates, and the organization has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse.