Programme Management Office Senior Officer (Grants and Contracts)

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a UN agency established to help implement projects for the United Nations and other partners. It focuses on infrastructure, procurement, and project management services. UNOPS operates in multiple countries, including Myanmar, where it acts as a fund manager for significant development programs. The organization emphasizes quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in its services, ensuring that partners receive the best possible support in their initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Office Senior Officer (Grants and Contracts) plays a crucial role in supporting the Access to Health Fund, which aims to enhance health outcomes for vulnerable populations in Myanmar, particularly in conflict-affected areas. This position involves grant management, capacity assessment, and capacity building, ensuring that all activities align with UNOPS regulations and the goals of the Access to Health Fund. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including local and international partners, to facilitate access to health services and strengthen local health systems. The role requires a proactive approach to managing grants, providing guidance to implementing partners, and ensuring compliance with operational guidelines. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring budgets, preparing grant agreements, and conducting capacity assessments to improve the operational capabilities of implementing partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Office Senior Officer include preparing grant award requests, drafting grant agreements, reviewing grant budgets, monitoring financial reports, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. The officer will also support the Finance Officer in budgeting and forecasting, communicate with implementing partners regarding grant-related matters, and resolve operational issues related to grant management. Additionally, the officer will conduct capacity assessments of implementing partners, organize training sessions, and maintain documentation related to grants and contracts. The role requires efficient execution of tasks, proactive interaction with colleagues, and adherence to UNOPS competencies and behaviors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as administration, development studies, economics, project management, or finance. A Bachelor’s degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree. Completion of the PRINCE2 Foundation certificate is considered an advantage. Candidates should have a minimum of two years of experience in contracts or grant management, preferably within the development and humanitarian sectors, and a good understanding of UN rules and procedures in budget or grant management is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as administration, development studies, economics, project management, or finance. A Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, along with additional relevant work experience, may also be acceptable. Candidates with a PRINCE2 Foundation certificate will have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of experience in contracts or grant management and/or project administration. Previous experience working with UN, donors, NGOs, or in the development and humanitarian sectors is advantageous. Candidates should also have experience in project support functions such as finance, human resources, procurement, and logistics, as well as a thorough understanding of contractual and accounting principles.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Myanmar/Burmese languages is mandatory, with strong written and oral communication skills required in both languages. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is a Local Individual Contractor Agreement at the LICA - 9 level. The contract duration is open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. This position is specifically open to Myanmar Nationals only. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. The organization also provides reasonable accommodations for candidates during the assessment process if needed.