Deputy Representative, Operations

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a global leader in promoting and protecting children's rights across 190 countries and territories. The organization is dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. UNICEF operates with a mission to ensure that every child has access to essential services and opportunities, and it is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide and collaborates with various partners, including governments, NGOs, and international organizations, to achieve its goals. UNICEF's work is guided by its core values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS).

Job Overview:
The Deputy Representative, Operations at UNICEF will serve as a Strategic Business Partner and will be responsible for leading operational functions to ensure effective program delivery for children in Guinea-Bissau. This role involves providing risk-informed, solution-focused analysis and advice, contributing to management decisions, and driving change within the organization. The incumbent will support the Head of Office in managing the office, coordinating support services across various operational areas, and representing organizational perspectives in management discussions. The position requires a proactive approach to understanding business needs, anticipating challenges, and proposing innovative solutions aimed at achieving value for money. The Deputy Representative will also play a crucial role in resource mobilization efforts and will be expected to engage with government counterparts and stakeholders to resolve operational bottlenecks. This position is pivotal in ensuring that UNICEF's operations align with its mission to promote children's rights and improve their well-being in Guinea-Bissau.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Representative, Operations will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading by example and supporting the Head of Office in managing the office effectively.
• Acting as Officer in Charge in the absence of the Head of Office.
• Coordinating support services in areas such as budget management, financial reporting, facilities management, administration, supply and logistics management, information and communications technology, and safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security.
• Representing the organizational risk and governance perspective in management discussions and promoting results-based management.
• Understanding business needs for the Country Programme and proposing viable solutions.
• Contributing to key processes such as CPD, CPMP, and AMP, and supporting Results Based Management using Value for Money criteria.
• Leveraging technology for program accountability and promoting effective ICT management.
• Supporting the country office during audits and ensuring compliance with recommendations.
• Guiding supply and logistics strategies to meet programmatic needs while ensuring Value for Money. 1
• Leading facility management with a focus on accessibility and sustainability. 1
• Overseeing business transactions processed by GSSC with an emphasis on efficiency and risk management. 1
• Actively supporting resource mobilization and partnership efforts. 1
• Serving as the security focal point for the office.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• An Advanced University Degree (Master’s or higher) in Business Management, Financial Management, Accounting, Public Finance, or related fields, or a full professional accounting designation from a recognized institute.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience at national and international levels in operations management, including budget, financial management, facilities management, administration, supply chain, and ICT.
• Experience in the development sector or UN system is an asset.
• Additional experience in audit, safety and security, grant management, and enterprise risk management is desirable.
• Familiarity with corporate ERPs and IPSAS is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in Results Based Management is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an Advanced University Degree (Master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as Business Management, Financial Management, Accounting, Public Finance, or related operations functions. Alternatively, a full professional accounting designation from an internationally recognized body is acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of operations management within UNICEF.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in operations management at both national and international levels. This experience should specifically include implementing strategic organizational initiatives in areas such as budget management, financial reporting, facilities management, administration, supply chain management, and ICT. Experience in the development sector or with UN agencies is highly valued, as is familiarity with working in developing countries or humanitarian contexts. Previous hands-on experience in strategic operations is considered a strong asset.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English is required for this position. Knowledge of Portuguese is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration within the region and with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary appointment for a duration of 6 months. It is classified at the P4 level, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and experience. The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment that may require flexibility and adaptability. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children.