Ombudsperson

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Ombudsperson
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services (UNOMS) was established as an informal pillar of the internal system of administration of justice within the United Nations. Its mission is to provide impartial and neutral services to address work-related concerns of UN employees. UNOMS operates in collaboration with other organizations, such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to ensure that employees have access to conflict resolution services. The organization emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and independence in its operations, aiming to foster a harmonious workplace environment. UNOMS is committed to promoting gender balance and diversity within its workforce, reflecting the values of the United Nations.

Job Overview:
The Ombudsperson position is crucial for providing informal conflict resolution services to personnel at ITU and WIPO. The incumbent will be responsible for addressing employment-related concerns, clarifying issues, and guiding individuals through the conflict resolution process. This role requires a deep understanding of the policies and procedures of both organizations, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders to facilitate communication and resolution. The Ombudsperson will also undertake outreach activities to raise awareness about conflict resolution options and enhance the conflict competence of employees. The position demands a high level of professionalism, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics while maintaining confidentiality and neutrality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Ombudsperson will perform a variety of duties, including:

• Providing impartial, independent, and confidential conflict resolution services to ITU and WIPO personnel.
• Clarifying and reframing issues, guiding personnel on their options, and exploring different avenues for resolution.
• Coaching individuals to address their concerns directly with other parties, enhancing their skills and confidence.
• Consulting with managers to develop cooperative strategies and facilitating conversations or group meetings.
• Engaging with relevant actors and stakeholders to achieve solutions to work-related issues.
• Conducting outreach activities to promote awareness of informal conflict resolution options and delivering skill-building sessions.
• Identifying and analyzing policies that may cause tension or conflict and providing feedback to management.
• Compiling regular reports on activities, statistics, and systemic recommendations for the Office of the Ombudsman and Mediation Services.
• Maintaining contact with other ombudspersons and mediators within the UN system to share best practices and develop standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• Demonstrated ability to navigate a broad range of work-related concerns and knowledge of conflict resolution principles.
• Excellent listening skills and the ability to establish empathy and respect.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to handle difficult situations with discretion and professionalism.
• Client-oriented mindset, with the ability to establish productive partnerships and anticipate client needs.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, tailored to diverse audiences.
• Strong judgment and decision-making abilities, with a focus on problem-solving and analytical skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in social sciences, public administration, dispute resolution, human resources, law, or related fields is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Formal training in mediation or other conflict resolution disciplines is also necessary.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience, including at least five years at the international level in dispute resolution, human resources management, law, or a related field. Experience in providing informal conflict resolution services in the workplace is desirable, as well as experience working in an international organization setting.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The appointment against this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension. Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfill lateral move requirements to be eligible to apply. The position is limited to the Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not request any fees from applicants.