Job Description
Job Description
Background
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and
inspiring stories.
UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
UNDP, the global development network for the United Nations system, is on the ground in 177 countries and is uniquely equipped to help developing countries build the requisite policies, capacity, and supportive environment that are needed to accelerate and sustain human development.
The Bureau for Management Services (BMS) is the central operations Bureau in UNDP that supports the organization in the provision of management services. Drawing on client needs, user experience, sound analytics, and a risk-informed approach, BMS provides policy, oversight, advisory and transactional services and solutions for UNDP to deliver fully integrated development solutions. In doing so, BMS keeps pace with the evolving needs and expectations of development partners and international best practice through strengthening and innovating business operations.
The General Operations Unit of BMS supports UNDP units, offices, programmes and projects in the achievement of their development results through sustainable, effective and efficient sourcing and management of goods, services and the overall management of their operational support functions. it is also responsible for the premises, facilities, asset management, travel management and overall BMS’s operations.
Under the guidance of the BMS Deputy Director, the Director of the General Operations Unit is responsible for the following:
- Overall leadership for HQ Facilities Management, Global Premises Management and Asset Management, Operations and Travel Services ensuring internal and external client satisfaction.
- Overall leadership and oversight of the negotiations and renovations of the real estate premises in NY with a view to consolidating UNDP into one building.
- Development and maintenance of policies and procedures (POPP) on premises acquisition, Reserve for Field Accommodation (RFA) properties, management of leases, leasehold improvement, vehicle management, insurance requirements, purchasing, travel, plant and equipment and UNDP tangible assets;
- Management of $25M RFA fund and issuance of ASLs to support their property management budget.
- Representation of UNDP at the UNDG Task Team on Common premises (TTCP) and other inter-agency for a on premises.
The Director of General Operations is responsible for ensuring integrated and timely client services consistent with the BMS service delivery model in the management of Country Office premises, HQs premises and facilities, Assets, Travel as well as in ensuring an integrated BMS Operations team.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provides overall leadership, strategic direction, and oversight to the coordinated provision of integrated operational services
- Provides effective leadership to a diverse staff group with roles and/or responsibilities for operations functions.
- Oversees the planning, coordination and implementation of the unit’s Integrated Work Plan in providing premises, facilities, asset management and travel services in an efficient and cost-effective manner;
- Ensures internal and external client satisfaction on operational matters;
- Promotes compliance with the internal control framework and monitors delegated authorities relating to the mandate of the unit ensuring clear levels of responsibilities.
Lead policy formulation, advisory and operational services to strengthen client capacities to deliver results
- Leads the formulation, timely update and implementation of corporate policies and procedures;
- Ensures compliance with standards and control procedures for assets management including the IPSAS policy on assets;
- Provides strategic direction on the use, improvement and implementation of modules that relate to the mandate of the unit, including the implementation of Travel and Expenses modules.
Lead the negotiations and renovations of the real estate premises for HQ
- Oversees the planning, coordination and implementation of the scope of work on renovations;
- Provides technical guidance on the negotiations and renovations for the HQ premises;
- Coordinates with internal and external stakeholders, including the UN Secretariat, on the ongoing work to ensure that the renovations are done on time and within budget;
- Ensure effective communication efforts and change management across the organization on the renovations;
- Prepare briefs and updates for senior management on the renovation efforts;
- Supports the BMS taskforce on premises to ensure an integrated approach.
Develops and manages strategic partnerships with key internal and external stakeholders, including Interagency Facilities and Travel working groups (INFM and IATN) and other related bodies
- Develops and manages strategic partnerships with key internal and external stakeholders, including Interagency Facilities and Travel working groups (INFM and IATN) and other related bodies.
- Represents UNDP in the Secretariat, UNSDG, TTCP and other UN inter-agency fora on travel, premises and facilities management, documents management and the provision of common services.
- Provides inputs to policy formulation within the UN system on operation services;
- Provides support to the UNDP Global Premises Taskforce.
Leads the BMS/GO team and fosters capacity building
- Build and maintain the team’s level of engagement, nurture and guide the development of staff, and provide developmental feedback, support and coaching to team members;
- Provides capacity building support and guidance to HQ staff and country offices to ensure that operational issues (travel, facilities, insurance, and fixed assets management) are addressed in all locations;
- Works with BMS/GO staff and relevant Bureaux and corporate units to identify and disseminate best practices.
Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities: Oversees a team of approx. 8 IPs and 14 GS staff members in the unit.
Required Skills and Experience
Education:
- Master’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Law, Engineering or any related fields.
- or A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Experience:
- A minimum fifteen (15) years (with master’s degree) or seventeen (17) years (with bachelor’s degree) of related work experience in leading and managing complex operational systems and services in the administrative area, within the UN system and/or other public, international organizations and entities or a combination of private and public service.
- At least 7 years’ experience should be at the international level with five years in leadership roles in global international organizations;
- Experience in managing lease negotiations and renovations of premises.
Language:
- Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
- Working knowledge of another UN language is desirable.
Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.
Disclaimer
Important information for US Permanent Residents (‘Green Card’ holders)
Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment.
UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.
Applicant information about UNDP rosters
Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
Non-discrimination
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
Scam warning
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Apply by November 15th, 2023
