UNCTAD – United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
Geneva, Switzerland
Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the Debt Management and Financial Analysis System (DMFAS) Programme of the Debt and Development Finance Branch of UNCTAD. The DMFAS Programme is a technical cooperation programme that provides technical assistance to developing countries to assist them in strengthening their capacity to manage public debt. The Programme Management Officer typically reports to the Chief of DMFAS.
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Programme Management Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
Manages a portfolio of DMFAS country projects which includes: provides technical assistance project documents/contractual arrangements; assists in seeking donor funding; plans, organises and implements project activities in accordance with the agreements and the relevant procedures;
Assists with the recruitment of consultants; develops their terms of reference and workplan; monitors their work and review and approve their mission reports;
Contributes to the preparation of material for the approval of regional, country or sector technical cooperation projects by liaising with the project counterparts, beneficiaries and donors, partner organisations and technical assistance community, including the UNDP and World Bank field offices;
Prepares various written outputs in relation to the programmes and projects, e.g. draft background papers, analysis, reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc.
Monitors, backstops and assesses the implementation of technical cooperation programmes and projects;
Maintains records on all aspects of the projects and user- institutions, including through the project monitoring and evaluation systems used by the programme and UNCTAD;
Provides substantive support to consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., to include proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations, etc.;
Undertakes outreach activities; conducts training workshops, seminars, etc.; makes presentations on the development and delivery of the programme’s products and services;
Participates in or leads field missions, including provision of guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties and drafting mission summaries, etc.;
Coordinates activities related to budget and funding (programme/project preparation and submissions, progress reports, financial statements, etc.) and prepares related documents/reports (pledging, work programme, programme budget, etc.);
Keeps abreast of developments in the area of debt management and be cognisant of new economic and political changes affecting the debt offices of client-institution, understand the main functionalities of the DMFAS system with a view to facilitate the implementation of the above list of responsibilities;
Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting;
Performs other duties as required.
Competencies
Professionalism: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to particular sector, functional area or other specialized field. Ability to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work;
Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed;
Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings;
Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, or related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Job – Specific Qualification
An advanced university degree in international affairs or international relations is desirable.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration or related area is required;
Experience in technical cooperation projects within the United Nations Common system is desirable;
Experience in dealing with debt management issues and in public debt management systems is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required. Fluency in French is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable.