Executive Assistant to the Head Office

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 year is a crucial year for the Niger Country Team and the Resident Coordinator Office must rise to the challenge. On one hand, the 2017-2021 Economic and Social Development Plan has come to an end to make way for a new national development reference framework (PDES 2022-2026) for the implementation of the Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth Strategy (SDIGS 2035). At the same time, United Nations conducted a participatory process for the elaboration of the Niger Common Country Assessment (CCA) 2022, which serves as a reference framework for the strategic orientations of the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework Plan (UNSDCF) currently being formulated (PCC 2023-2027). By conducting in-depth causal analyses of Niger's main development problems and the SDG’s trajectory, the CCA has helped to better position the United Nations in Niger on themes that will bring significant changes in sustainable development and good governance in support of the government's efforts to improve performance on the SDGs. Broader initiatives are also expected, including the World Education Summit. The UN reform calls for greater efficiency in cooperation with the Government and technical and financial partners. Strategic partnerships and strengthened collaboration with state institutions down to the regions are being pursued through initiatives involving civil society, the private sector and technical and financial partners. Thus, in accordance with the "ONE UN" principle, significant progress has been achieved by using the leverage of more coherent and harmonised interventions while enhancing the mandates and comparative advantages of the agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations system. Under the direct responsibility of the Head of the RCO, the candidate will be responsible for supporting the office in the implementation of efficient and effective management mechanisms, streamlined processes; transparent and adapted to the Secretariat reform policies and administrative instructions governing the operation of the office.

Under the responsibility of the Head of Office, the candidate will be responsible for the following tasks:

Ensure effective and accurate management and supervision of financial resources : • Develop and support the management and monitoring of the achievement of results, in strict compliance with the rules, regulations and policies of the Secretariat/RCO. • Plan office expenditures and conducting a self-audit of financial resources, including locally raised funds in accordance with the rules and regulations of the RCO. • Support the RCO in establishing streamlined, transparent working procedures and processes, adapted to the rules, regulations, policies and administrative instructions of the Secretariat reform. • Support the implementation of an operational BCP (Business Continuity Plan) • Support the UN reform implementation process, the establishment of Common Services and BOS coordination mechanisms, • Propose the development of common services in line with the latest developments and best practice. • Participate in the development of the common services budget and agency contributions on behalf of common services.

Provide administrative support to the Head of Office • Provide support for meetings, events and workshops; • Organise and attend meetings, prepare minutes and summaries; • Gathering briefing materials and preparing PowerPoint presentations for the Head of Office for meetings, missions and other key events • Provide administrative support for effective knowledge management and sharing within the office and with other offices; • Support in writing letters; • Maintain the office's "mission planning and leave plan"; • Perform any other duties as requested by the Head of Office.

Professionalism: Basic knowledge of processes, methods and procedures. Understanding of key processes and work methods related to the position. Basic knowledge of organizational policies and procedures related to the position and consistent application to job tasks. Up-to-date job knowledge through self-directed study and other learning opportunities. Good knowledge of information technology and applies it to tasks. - Integrity: Demonstrated expertise in area of specialty and ability to formulate sound judgment; high level of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take responsibility; willingness to accept responsibility and ability to work independently according to established procedures in a politically sensitive environment, while exercising sound judgment and maintaining impartiality and neutrality; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsiveness and service orientation. - Accountability: maturity and sense of responsibility; ability to operate within the rules and regulations of the organization. - Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and keep abreast of new developments in one's field of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in the work environment. - Planning and organization: proven organizational effectiveness and problem solving skills, ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to prioritize, plan, coordinate and follow up on one's (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with tight deadlines, and to manage several projects/activities in parallel. - Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to work effectively with other sectors/units within the organization; proven ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relationships in a multicultural and multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity and equality; - Communication: Demonstrated interpersonal skills; Good oral and written communication skills, including the ability to write clear and concise reports; Ability to make presentations, clearly and accurately articulate different options; Ability to make recommendations and defend them; Ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts, and local interlocutors from a wide range of backgrounds; Ability to maintain composure and remain helpful with staff, while being objective, without showing personal interest; Ability to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of target groups; - Flexibility, adaptability, ability and willingness to work in difficult, remote and potentially dangerous environments for extended periods of time, involving difficult living conditions and few comforts, including frequent travel within the area of operations; willingness to deploy/transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations, if necessary; - Demonstrated adherence to the principles of voluntary commitment, including solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and to the core values of the United Nations.

in managing, monitoring, reporting and communicating results of development projects; • Experience in results-based reporting; • Experience in working with government, public institutions and donors at national, provincial and/or local level; • Experience working in developing countries is required and experience in crisis contexts is desired; • Proven skills in the production of communication materials on results and visibility of achievements. Programme management • Developing strategic partnerships • Ability to interact with other agencies, donors and other relevant partners to develop constructive working relationships.

The assignment will take place in the nation’s capital, Niamey, a family duty station. Niamey is a liveable city. The spontaneous reception and hospitality of the Nigeriens is among the characteristic features of this West African country. The living conditions in Niamey are good, as well as the access to health services. The yellow fever vaccine is compulsory and vaccination cards should be presented at the entrance. Vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. The basic drugs are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring specific prescription drugs. There are few banks in Niamey, but they do not have USD or foreign currency accounts. The current security level is 3 (moderate) in Niamey. The selected UN Volunteer will be expected to follow and complete all UN/UNV mandatory trainings and briefings. 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.