Operations Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency established to eradicate rural poverty and hunger. IFAD focuses on investing in rural people by financing programs and projects that enhance agricultural productivity and increase rural incomes. The organization advocates for policies that contribute to rural transformation at local, national, and international levels. IFAD operates through its Department for Country Operations (DCO), which manages the origination, design, and oversight of IFAD investments, including both sovereign and non-sovereign operations. The DCO is structured into five regional divisions and two specialized units, ensuring effective engagement with governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders to deliver its program of work. The organization is committed to fostering a nurturing environment that reflects its high reputation and values.

Job Overview:
The Operations Analyst position is situated within the DCO Front Office, where the incumbent will be responsible for managing the front office and coordinating the DCO FO Administrative Support Team. This role is pivotal in creating an efficient and supportive environment that aligns with IFAD's mission. The incumbent will oversee the administration of the Associate Vice President's office, ensuring effective communication, proper management of the departmental budget, and coordination of various administrative functions. The role requires proactive analysis and promotion of new work methods to enhance operational efficiency. The incumbent will also be responsible for formulating briefs and providing analytical support on various subjects, ensuring compliance with established rules and procedures, and monitoring the timely submission of reports and documentation by staff. This position demands a high level of organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordination, Office Management, and Operations Support: The incumbent will coordinate and develop efficient systems for the administration of the Office of the Associate Vice President, ensuring timely responses to correspondence and managing the AVP's briefing files. They will oversee the administrative team's work to ensure smooth operational running and promote effective communication. The incumbent will monitor and report on the budget status, ensuring correct fund utilization, and manage the AVP's calendar and appointments. They will also support the preparation of the Office's program of work and budget, ensuring compliance with corporate standards.
• Resource Management and Planning: The incumbent will play a key role in planning and managing the divisional work plan and budget, preparing analytical reports, and providing inputs to corporate documents. They will monitor progress towards departmental targets and deliverables, identifying problem areas and proposing corrective actions.
• Agent of Change: The incumbent will apply change management principles and serve as a role model for transformation, ensuring open communication regarding current and planned changes.
• Managerial Functions: The incumbent will be accountable for the integrity and transparency in managing IFAD resources, coordinating the Administrative Support Team, and fostering a positive work environment. They will ensure knowledge management practices are in place and that best practices are documented and shared.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree from an accredited institution in international relations, management, business administration, international development, economics, or a related field. Candidates must possess at least two years of progressively responsible professional experience, preferably within an international financial institution, development cooperation agencies, or the United Nations system. The role demands strong analytical skills, proficiency in budgeting and resource management, and the ability to adhere to established procedures and guidelines. Candidates should demonstrate a high level of digital literacy and adaptability to new tools and processes, as well as strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field such as international relations, management, business administration, international development, or economics. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and the environment in which IFAD operates. For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible professional experience. This experience should ideally include roles within international financial institutions, development cooperation agencies, or the United Nations system. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of budget administration, resource allocation, and planning at the divisional level, as well as experience in managing administrative functions and supporting high-level executives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with a proficiency level of 4 (Excellent). Desirable additional languages include French, Spanish, and/or Arabic, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international context of IFAD's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as an international civil servant role, subject to the authority of the President of IFAD. Staff members are expected to be geographically mobile, and positions may change locations based on strategic priorities. IFAD is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates regardless of background. The organization does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and official communications will come from IFAD email addresses. Candidates may be required to participate in written tests, presentations, and interviews as part of the selection process. The organization emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information.