Administrative Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Administrative Officer
Location: Laayoune
Country: Western Sahara
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of Chief of Mission Support in the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in Laayoune. The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. MINURSO was established to oversee the referendum process in Western Sahara, which has been a disputed territory since the end of Spanish colonial rule. The organization operates in various countries around the world, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Officer will play a crucial role in strengthening the management capacity of the front office of the Chief of Mission Support. This position involves providing expert guidance and oversight to junior staff and other offices regarding human resource administration, financial administration, and management information issues. The incumbent will oversee document management, draft mission-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and ensure compliance with audit and risk management protocols. The role requires effective coordination of human resource activities, including recruitment, performance appraisal, and training, while ensuring adherence to UN rules and procedures. Additionally, the Administrative Officer will lead the preparation and implementation of the work programme and budget, monitor financial resources, and coordinate the production of programme reports. The position also entails overseeing procurement, billing, and operational travel programs, as well as managing support services for the Office of Chief of Mission Support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Administrative Officer include:

• Strengthening management capacity by providing guidance and oversight to junior staff.
• Overseeing document management and drafting mission-specific SOPs.
• Reviewing documents prepared by the Protocol Officer.
• Managing audit, internal controls, compliance, and risk management.
• Coordinating human resource activities such as recruitment, placement, and performance appraisal.
• Leading the preparation and implementation of the work programme and budget.
• Monitoring financial resources and conducting regular reviews of the work programme.
• Coordinating the production of programme reports and improving budget reporting systems.
• Supervising financial administration and providing guidance to colleagues. 1
• Overseeing procurement and billing processes. 1
• Coordinating with various stakeholders on administrative issues. 1
• Reviewing incoming correspondence and ensuring prompt action. 1
• Monitoring support services and managing logistics requirements. 1
• Identifying office technology needs and coordinating enhancements. 1
• Performing other related work as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Administrative Officer position include:

• Knowledge of administrative, budgetary, financial, and human resources policies and procedures.
• Ability to apply UN administrative rules and regulations.
• Strong conceptual, analytical, and evaluative skills.
• Demonstrated professionalism and commitment to achieving results.
• Ability to incorporate gender perspectives in all areas of work.
• Excellent planning and organizing skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage performance and delegate responsibilities effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Business Administration or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor's or equivalent) in Business Administration with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in at least three of the following areas is required: administration, finance, accounting, audit, human resources management, procurement, or information technology. Experience in a multicultural or international work environment, particularly in field missions, is essential. Previous work in a front office setting is required, along with strong drafting skills in English. Experience working in a high-paced environment and with oversight bodies is desirable. Additionally, two years or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language of the UN. Candidates must demonstrate strong drafting skills in English, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval, or extension of the mandate. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various activities or offices of the United Nations. Candidates under serious consideration will undergo reference checks to verify the information provided in their applications.