Associate Project Control Officer

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

The South Sudan Operation is a very complex and high-risk operation in which all 4 Pillars of UNHCR are being implemented. The perception of fraud and corruption is very high with most of the regions outside the capital not having required infrastructure that provide assurances of prudent financial management and value for money

to fully support financial transactions. UNHCR relies on the multi-functional team approach to conduct monitoring of project financial and performance reports. The Associate Project Control Officer is part of the multi-functional team. In coordination with DFAM’s Implementation Management and Assurance Service, s/he is responsible and accountable for providing substantive support, guidance, and oversight on the effective management of the Enhanced Framework for Implementing with Partners (the Framework) as well as oversight on the effective management of Direct Implementation.

Complementary to programme management, s/he will support and conduct analysis and assessment of risks associated with partnerships and direct implementation, policy compliance, operational practices, mitigation measures and gaps and make technical recommendations or decisions in line with the principles of the Framework, of UN/UNHCR’s financial rules, policies and regulations and operational context.

The incumbent prompts partnership integrity and other safeguarding mechanisms for ensuring sound stewardship and accountability of funds entrusted to partners or through direct implementation arrangements (e.g. contracts for the procurement of goods and/or services) to ensure resources are used in the most efficient and effective manner to attain the best results for persons of concern.

The Associate Project Control Officer will promote dialogue and consultations for strengthening partnerships and have frequent contacts with UNHCR colleagues, particularly project control and programme staff. S/he may have contact with external stakeholders, such as UNHCR-funded p

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Head of Sub Office or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UN Volunteer Associate Project Control Officer will:

Participate in the annual assessment and planning cycle.


Review that project agreements are in conformity with Country Operation Plans and UNHCR’s rules, policies, and procedures.


Formulate and implement a performance project monitoring plan in collaboration with the Programme Unit and MFT.


Participate in the development of the direct implementation monitoring plan in collaboration with the Programme Unit and other relevant functions.


Support Programme and other relevant functions in the selection of implementation modalities.


Track the management of project and direct implementation risks in collaboration with the Programme Unit, and report major risks to senior management.


Review, analyze and verify Financial and Performance Partner Reports (PFR and PPR), and check accuracy and consistency between PFR and PPR, in accordance with partnership agreements.


Undertake missions within the geographical area of responsibility.


Monitor, track and verify that expenditure for direct implementation by UNHCR is in line with the approved budget.


Conduct reviews of the internal control systems of partners and provide advice as required.


Provide feedback and recommendations of identified variants, risks and issues to the partner, Programme Unit and escalate to management as required.


Prepare project control reports with the status of programme implementation and financial status.


Support out timely project closure in coordination with the programme unit.


Provide input to the mid- and end-year programme review process on issues related to project control and risk management.


Maintain professional relationships with partners and UNHCR’s contractors.


Keep up-to-date with all UNHCR rules, regulations and procedures necess

, Commitment and Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Communication, Integrity, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Working in Teams

At least 3 years of professional work experience at the national and/or international level in accounting, finance, or risk management,or other relevant programmes; experience with project monitoring and international auditing standards is an asset.

The UNHCR operation in South Sudan provides protection and support to refugees, IDPs, and statelessness. The conflict that broke out in Sudan’s South Kordofan and Blue Nile States in 2011 led to widespread displacement of civilians to Upper Nile State and Unity State in South Sudan. As a result, in 2019, South Sudan is hosting almost 300,000 refugees mainly from Sudan but also from DRC, Ethiopia, and CAR. In 2019, almost 1.9 million people have been displaced in South Sudan as a result of the civil war which has brought massive destruction and loss of life, as well as serious violations of human rights. Since the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) was signed on 12 September 2018, the security situation in South Sudan improved in most areas. Throughout 2018 there was a steady increase in the number of spontaneous refugee returns. Juba is classified as an E, non-family duty station.

R&R cycle for all duty stations in South Sudan is 6 weeks and all international staff resides at UNHCR provided accommodation. UN curfew is from 19:00 to 06:00. There are limited medical facilities in Juba and other cities in the country. In all UNHCR compounds, regardless of the location, accommodations are equipped with all the necessary furniture. All rooms are provided with in-house services. In addition, most locations are equipped with a gym or some sports equipment. Food supply varies depending on the season. In addition, all UNHCR staff has the option of eating at a cafeteria.

Security Situation:

The security situation in South Sudan as of 1 April 2019, though generally stable remains fragile and fluid in a complex and unpredictable environment. The security situation is characterized by low intensity and localized armed conflict in some areas, high levels of crime across the country, Inter and Intra communal conflict over a diverse range of issues and regular civil unrest in refugee and IDP operations and host community. The signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in September 2018 represents an important milestone for South Sudan and the security environment has improved in most areas but big challenges remain ahead.

The security level in South Sudan is assessed as substantial (security level 4) in most areas.

Security Risk Management measures in place:

UN Curfew is in force across the country, but timing differs from one SRM Area to another.


International staff must request and receive security clearance for official and non-official travel. National personnel must request and receive security clearance for all official travel


International staff on mission must stay in either a UN facility or UN approved commercial lodging for staff members.


All UNSMS female staff must be accommodated in UNSMS residential compounds


Safe and Secure Approaches in Field Environment (SSAFE) to be conducted in areas with HIGH Risk level and above


All international staff, including UNVs and International Contractors working for UNSMS, and national staff are issued with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and VHF radios

However, South Sudan is a unique country and Bunj/Maban Operation is a unique (humanitarian) operation. It provides for an interesting and enriching environment, but also requires a mature level of cultural awareness, as well as more stamina and commitment than elsewhere to make life comfortable and affordable. Therefore, flexibility and the ability and willingness to live and work in harsh and potentially hazardous conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort, are essential.