Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a mission to build peace in the minds of men and women, and it operates in over 190 countries worldwide. UNESCO is committed to fostering collaboration among nations to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of individuals across various sectors and is known for its dedication to diversity, integrity, and professionalism.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant within the Division of Internal Oversight Services (IOS) at UNESCO is crucial for maintaining the integrity and accountability of the organization. The IOS provides an independent oversight mechanism that encompasses internal audit, evaluation, investigation, and management support. The consultant will be responsible for conducting preliminary evaluations of allegations related to misconduct, fraud, and other irregularities. This role requires a thorough understanding of organizational rules and regulations, as well as the ability to assess whether allegations violate these rules or law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">criminal law. The consultant will document findings, prepare draft reports, and make recommendations regarding the necessity of full investigations. The position also involves collaborating with other investigation personnel and preparing investigation work plans, ensuring that all investigative activities are conducted in accordance with professional standards and the office's procedural framework. The consultant will be expected to present findings clearly and logically, propose actionable recommendations, and follow up on the implementation of these recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include conducting preliminary evaluations of allegations of irregularities, misconduct, fraud, and unsatisfactory conduct, including harassment and abuse of authority. The consultant will identify whether these allegations constitute violations of organizational rules, regulations, and policies, or criminal law. They will document and prepare draft reports with recommendations for the Director of IOS regarding whether to proceed with a full investigation, refer the case, or close it. Upon authorization from the Director, the consultant will conduct full investigations, collaborating with other investigation personnel on complex cases. The consultant will prepare specific investigation work plans, gather, review, and analyze information for relevance and reliability, conduct interviews, and document all investigative activities. They will present investigative facts, circumstances, and conclusions in a concise manner, propose recommendations, and finalize reports to support management decisions regarding disciplinary or remedial actions. Additionally, the consultant will follow up on the implementation of recommendations made in the reports.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree in law, audit, or a related field. Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in conducting administrative, criminal, or forensic investigations, preferably within international organizations or the public/private sector. The consultant must demonstrate the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, possess sound knowledge of legal principles applicable to investigative activities, and have strong coordination and analytical skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, particularly in a diverse cultural environment. Proven ability to draft investigative reports on complex topics with well-supported conclusions in both English and French is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in law, audit, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the legal principles and frameworks that govern investigative activities within an international organization like UNESCO.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in conducting investigations, whether administrative, criminal, or forensic. This experience should ideally be gained within international organizations or in the public or private sectors, providing the candidate with a robust understanding of the complexities involved in investigative processes.

Languages:
Candidates must have excellent knowledge of English and a good level of French. Proficiency in both languages is crucial for drafting reports and conducting interviews, as well as for effective communication within the diverse cultural environment of UNESCO.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 6 months, with the possibility of renewal based on successful performance and availability of funds. The position is open to external candidates and requires on-site work in Paris, although remote work may be considered for candidates within the same time zone. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its personnel appointments. The organization applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. All applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and UNESCO does not charge any fees at any stage of the hiring process.