Head of Operations (Roster)

Background Information – Peace and Security Cluster

The UNOPS Peace and Security Cluster (PSC) is a principal service provider in the field of mine action with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), UNDP, UNICEF, Governments of mine-affected countries and other mine action partners. It is led by the Director, who has overall authority and accountability for the performance PSC on behalf of its clients. The Director is responsible for administering and providing oversight of the day-to-day management of the Project Field offices, both according to the client requirements and in line with UNOPS rules and regulations.

Background Information – Job-specific

**This roster replenishment is being launched in response to a current vacancy in Mali. Even though this roster is designed to serve vacancies worldwide, candidates who express interest in deploying to Mali within the next three months will be prioritized. Candidates who are not interested in deploying to Mali would still be considered, but at a later date.**

The duties and responsibilities of the ICS-11 Head of Operations and the ICS-10 Operations Officer are similar to each other, with the difference in grades being determined by the complexity, funding portfolio, and other criteria linked to the level of responsibility of the specific position. An ICS-10 Operations Officer may be responsible for all aspects of the terms of reference or may be specialized into one or more areas only. An ICS-10 operations officer may also be responsible for managing junior personnel.

Functional Responsibilities

Reporting to the Head of Project Unit (HPU), the Head of Operations will carry out the following duties:

Operations – Design and planning

• Support the HPU in providing input to the Chief of Mine Action Programme (CMAP) on programme and project design documents from an operational and technical standpoint, such as:
• Programme strategy (e.g. vision, mission, strategic results framework, stakeholder analysis; risk analysis; resource mobilization strategy)
• Workplan and budget (e.g. nature of threat; technical personnel and equipment requirements, etc.)

Concept of operations

• Input into the documents above is from the operational and technical aspects encompassing mine action pillars (e.g. clearance, explosive ordnance risk education, victim assistance, advocacy and stockpile destruction)
• Ensure that implementation plans have viable timelines, are assigned appropriate resources, and that implementation options reflect the knowledge of the context, as well as UNOPS’ mechanisms and policies; key implementation documents include: UNMAS / UNOPS Project Agreements, Solicitation documents used to contract third-parties (i.e. contractors and grantees), and Human resources plan

Operations – Implementation and monitoring

Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with UNOPS policies and standards, such as:

• Financial and procurement rules
• Contract and grant management policies
• Project management standards
• Health, safety, social and environmental standards
• Gender parity and mainstreaming policies
• Information management systems and standards
• Organizational design standards and human resources policies

Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with mine action technical standards, such as:

• International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) and corresponding National Technical Specifications and Guidelines (NTSGs)
• International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG)
• Modular Small Arms Control Implementation Compendium (MOSAIC)

Oversee, coordinate, and monitor mine action operations and performance (both operations conducted in-house and those conducted through third-party contractors and grantees), including:

• Ensure third-party contracts and grants are delivered in accordance with contractual/grant terms and conditions, including in accordance with mine action technical, operational and quality assurance processes (Implementation Plan, SOPs, task orders issuance, accreditation)
• Review all performance reports and populate internal monitoring and reporting mechanisms (i.e. grant and contract management plans) to inform the monthly payment process
• Design, implement and oversee a robust quality management and information management system
• Design and maintain a risk management system focused on problem solving which ties into contract management awareness; maintain and utilise risk and issues logs
• Organise debriefing with the grantee/contractor to provide feedback on performance against deliverables and if necessary, discuss corrective actions to be taken in following months, recommend liquidated damages and/or lead dispute resolutions if necessary
• Advise the HPU on potential technical and operational issues that may impact the achievement of programme/project outcomes and appropriate solutions
• Lead Boards of Inquiry as relevant
• Ensure operational plans are cost effective and reviewed regularly
• In support of the HPU, contribute to monitoring budgets/expenditure for over/under spend and adjust planning accordingly

Stakeholder management

• In support of the HPU, manage relationships with the CMAP and other direct UNOPS stakeholders, particularly around operational and technical issues
• In support of the HPU, upon request from the CMAP, engage national mine action authorities and/or relevant Government ministries for purposes of coordination as requested, specifically relating to review/implementation of National Technical Standards and Guidelines and/or International Mine Action Standards and other relevant international standards as well as treaty implementation/obligations

People management

• Support in recruiting, training, guiding, empowering and developing the operations team, with consideration for individual training and development needs
• Mentor and advise operations personnel in planning, execution and delivery of allocated projects, ensuring incorporation of best operational processes
• Promote teamwork, collaboration and diversity by providing the Operations team with clear direction, objectives and guidance to enable them to perform their duties responsibly, effectively and efficiently
• Directly lead national and international UNOPS personnel in a multicultural team, ensuring a professional, ethical and well-managed operations team
• Foster a positive and enabling work environment, respectful of all genders, and ensure that the highest standards of conduct are observed
• Ensure that regular performance reviews are conducted, and any issues are immediately addressed

Knowledge management and innovation

• Ensure records of operations-related files are well maintained
• Implement relevant tools and templates to effectively manage efficient and effective operations
• Keep abreast of and incorporate latest/best practices, approaches and technology to enhance operational results
• Initiate and undertake lessons learned exercises, including the sharing, effective filing, and incorporation into future operational plans and ensure information sharing

Education

• Advanced University Degree (master degree or equivalent) with 7 years of relevant experience; OR
• First Level University Degree (bachelor degree) with 9 years of relevant experience; OR
• Military or police experience with 13 years of relevant experience

Required Certifications

• EOD Level 3+ qualification (in any specialist EOD activities as described in Test and Evaluation Protocol 09.30/01/2022 (e.g., Bulk demolitions, guided weapons, aerial bombs etc.) is required

*EOD qualifications must be from organizations that train and educate EOD specialists in accordance with IMAS standards. Individuals are responsible for providing proof of completion.

Experience

Relevant experience is defined as operations experience in a military, humanitarian, post-conflict, or development context.

A minimum of 5 years of proven and applicable experience (within the past 10 years) in explosive hazard management is required, especially in one or more of the following activities:

• Explosive Ordnance Disposal including multiple items and logistical demolitions
• Non-technical survey
• Technical survey
• Mechanical clearance and ground preparation
• Mechanical assisted clearance operations in an urban environment
• Manual mine clearance
• Battle Area clearance
• Road clearance
• High Risk Search (HRS) and/or Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD)

A minimum of 3 years’ experience (within the past 10 years) managing people is required

Experience applying one of the following standards is required:

• International Mine Action Standards (IMAS)
• International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG)

Experience using information management systems such as Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) is required

Experience applying Modular Small Arms Control Implementation Compendium (MOSAIC) is desired

Competencies

• Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.
• Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
• Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.
• Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).
• Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.
• Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.
• Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.
• Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Additional Considerations

• Please note that the closing date is midnight Copenhagen time.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and it is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all its employees and encourages qualified candidates to apply irrespective of race, colour, national origin, ethnic or social background, genetic information, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or disability.
• UNOPS seeks to reasonably accommodate candidates with special needs, upon request.
• The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential recruits/interns. Recruitment/internship in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

Contract type, level and duration

• Contract type: Fixed Term Appointment (FTA) / Temporary Appointment (TA) / International Individual Contractor Agreement (I-ICA)
• Contract level: ICS-11: P4 FTA / P4 TA / I-ICA 3
• Contract duration: Length of contract will depend on contract modality and funding availability.

For more details about United Nations staff contracts and the UNOPS ICA contractual modality, please follow this link:

https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/UN-Staff-Contracts.aspx

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link:

https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Background Information – UNOPS

UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve sustainable development.

UNOPS areas of expertise cover infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management and human resources.

Working with us

UNOPS offers short- and long-term work opportunities in diverse and challenging environments across the globe. We are looking for creative, results-focused professionals with skills in a range of disciplines.

Diversity

With over 4,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners’ needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.

Work-life harmonization

UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands.