Operational Risk and Control Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to improve reproductive health and rights, and to ensure that every individual has access to the necessary resources and support. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly those related to health, gender equality, and human rights. UNFPA's mission is driven by a commitment to uphold human rights and to empower individuals, particularly women and girls, to make informed choices about their reproductive health and well-being. With a diverse workforce and a focus on inclusivity, UNFPA aims to create a supportive environment that reflects the values of gender equality and diversity.

Job Overview:
The Operational Risk and Control Specialist position is integral to the UNFPA Division for Management Services’ Quality Management Unit (QMU) and is based in the Arab States Regional Office (ASRO) in Cairo, Egypt. The role involves providing guidance, technical support, and oversight to all business units (BUs) in the region, particularly in areas such as implementing partner management, internal control, and fraud risk management. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying risks and control gaps through rigorous data analysis, implementing appropriate mitigating measures, and ensuring compliance with corporate policies. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring and addressing risks, as well as the ability to build capacity within the organization through training and support. The Specialist will serve as a regional knowledge hub, facilitating the application of corporate policies and standards, and ensuring that BUs are equipped to manage risks effectively. The role is designed to enhance the overall performance and compliance of the organization in achieving its strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Operational Risk and Control Specialist include:

• Implementing Partners Risk Management: Mastering processes, systems, and policies for implementing partner risk management (HACT) and serving as the primary contact for technical questions and policy guidance. Proactively monitoring for risks, gaps, and weaknesses, and devising mitigating measures to ensure compliance.
• Guidance: Offering consistent guidance to BUs on implementing IP risk and assurance policies, adapting corporate strategies to local contexts, and assisting in selecting appropriate operational modalities for partnerships.
• Technical Support: Providing technical support to the RO and BUs on IP assurance and risk management, ensuring updated knowledge on IP management, and supporting the implementation of corporate systems and tools.
• Management Oversight: Monitoring regional CO compliance, analyzing performance gaps, and ensuring corrective actions are taken.
• Internal Controls and Fraud Risk Management: Mastering processes for internal controls and fraud risk management, providing guidance on the implementation of the Internal Control Framework (ICF), and ensuring compliance with anti-fraud and anti-money laundering policies.
• Capacity Building: Identifying capacity gaps and arranging training on policies and best practices, as well as providing temporary backstopping to BUs as needed.
• Reporting: Providing regional quality assurance over HACT reports and facilitating the development of appropriate due diligence tools for countries in the region.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Operational Risk and Control Specialist position include:

• Education: An advanced university degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Risk Management, Audit, Management, or a related field.
• Knowledge and Experience: A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in public administration, risk management, audit, or related areas, ideally within an international organization.
• Skills: Excellent interpersonal, communication, and persuasion skills, with a proven ability to build effective working relationships. Experience in drafting guidance and procedures, and the ability to present information clearly and compellingly. Strong data analysis and conceptual abilities, along with proficiency in current office software applications and corporate IT systems.
• Dedication: A commitment to the principles of the United Nations and an understanding of UN internal control, risk management, and implementing partner procedures is advantageous. Previous experience in field operations is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in disciplines such as Public Administration, Business Administration, Risk Management, Audit, Management, or other related fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of risk management and control within the context of international organizations and the UN system.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in areas such as public administration, risk management, audit, or related fields. This experience should ideally be gained within an international organization, providing the candidate with a solid understanding of the operational and regulatory frameworks that govern such entities. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to manage risks effectively and to implement policies and procedures that enhance organizational performance.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UNFPA and the international community. A working knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication and collaboration within the regional context and with local partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. The work environment at UNFPA reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. UNFPA is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages women to apply, as well as individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity.