Operations Associate, VSC Operations Support

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities to address development challenges. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, valuing the multiplicity of nations and cultures in which it operates. UNDP is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all personnel can contribute to its mission, and it actively encourages applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, ensuring that all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Job Overview:
The Operations Associate, VSC Operations Support plays a crucial role in the effective administration of processes and transactions within the Volunteer Services Centre (VSC). Reporting to the Chief of VSC, the Operations Associate is responsible for promoting a client-oriented, quality-focused approach to service delivery. This position involves coordinating with various partner sections to enhance the quality of services provided by VSC, contributing to the development and optimization of processes, activities, and systems. The Operations Associate will also assist in capacity building and training for the VSC team, supporting the transition to a fully digital ecosystem. The role requires close collaboration with UNV headquarters, regional offices, and field units to ensure consistent service delivery and effective communication of updates related to processes and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of the Volunteer Services Centre operational strategies by assisting in the continuous review of service delivery, providing technical advice, and enhancing cost efficiency. This includes creating and tracking results-oriented budget workplans and ensuring compliance with UNV/UNDP rules and policies.
• Provide effective operational, administrative, and financial control by ensuring compliance with financial processes, maintaining financial records, and reporting on VSC-related projects.
• Identify and close knowledge and training gaps within the VSC by conducting knowledge audits and promoting continuous capacity building.
• Contribute to the operations strategy and efficiency agenda for VSC by supporting business processes and digitalization initiatives.
• Provide administrative support, including organizing meetings and events, preparing presentations, and managing performance of outsourced services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary education as a minimum requirement, with a university degree in Business or Public Administration, Management, or a related field being advantageous. Certification in Design Thinking, User Experience (UX) Design, BPMN Process Design, LEAN, Six Sigma, or similar fields is desirable. Candidates should have a strong understanding of administrative processes and operational support, with experience in creating SOPs and training materials being a plus. Knowledge of content management systems and proficiency in office software packages (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint) is required. Familiarity with operational support systems such as ATLAS, Quantum, or UMOJA is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes at least secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a university degree in relevant fields such as Business, Public Administration, or Management. Additional certifications in process design or improvement methodologies are considered advantageous but not mandatory.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant working experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or 3 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience should be in administration, operations, business process improvement, or capacity building at either the national or international level. Previous experience in creating SOPs, user-handbooks, and operational training materials is desirable, along with proficiency in using computers and office software packages. Familiarity with operational support systems is also an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is for local recruitment only, open to citizens of the European Union (EU) member states or holders of residence and unlimited work permits for Germany. The initial appointment is for 12 months, contingent upon successful completion of a probationary period. All travel, interview, and relocation costs incurred to take up the appointment in Bonn are the responsibility of the applicant. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.