Head of Manila Office

Contract

This is a IICA-3 contract. This kind of contract is known as International Individual Contractor Agreements. It is normally internationally recruited only. It's an external contract. It usually requires 7 years of experience, depending on education. More about IICA-3 contracts.

Background Information - PLG

The Partnerships and Liaison Group (PLG) supports UNOPS efforts to build closer ties with partners across the full spectrum of UNOPS activities. By forging strategic relationships and working with partners, both in the field and at headquarters, PLG also seeks to ensure high partners satisfaction with UNOPS project implementation. PLG has a unit in Copenhagen and liaison offices in Amman, Brussels, Geneva, Nairobi, Tokyo and Washington DC. PLG engages with key partners such as the World Bank, the European Union, donor governments, UN agencies and other international financing institutions.

Functional Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of the Partnerships Director, The Head of Manila Liaison Office (MLO) will be responsible for promoting corporation and strategic partnership between UNOPS and global partners based in Asia such as ADB, KOICA and other key partners. He or she will establish and maintain contact through active outreach at all levels.

More specifically, the incumbent will be entrusted with the following responsibilities: 1. Outreach and project development strategy:

• Support the development and implementation of UNOPS partnership strategy with Asia-based partners and governments, focusing in particular on Korea/KOICA, Asian Development Bank (ADB), New Development Bank (NDB), and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
• Research and analyze specific donor programming priorities in order to identify potential funding opportunities and develop respective project proposals in line with UNOPS strategy;
• Support the partnership and opportunities planning process to define high-priority clients, countries, sectors, products and service areas;
• Work in close collaboration with regional directors to ensure regional priorities are fully embedded into working plans and that global opportunities with Asia based global partners are expanding UNOPS portfolio;
• Develop internal feedback mechanisms to continuously improve both the form and content of partner outreach and project development activities.

2. Developing and deepening partnerships:

• Developing and deepening partnerships with selected partners (in particular Korea/KOICA, Asian Development Bank (ADB), New Development Bank (NDB), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) through building and maintaining professional relationships at appropriate levels;
• Expand UNOPS outreach by exploring new partnership opportunities with the private foundations, INGO’s, academia, and the private sector;
• Participate in key partnership building meetings and ensure their systematic and timely follow-up. Represent UNOPS in relevant Partner conferences/events in Asia region;
• Showcase UNOPS capabilities and value-add, and enhance the understanding of UNOPS with relevant partners;

3. Project identification, formulation and support to field offices:

• Advise field offices in business development opportunities analysis, partnerships development and programme design;
• Work in close consultation with the Asia Region and other regional offices in both building our partner strategies and in the implementation thereafter.
• Ongoing progress reporting to Partnerships Director as well as Regional Directors
• Provide project development support, advise, and assistance to Regional Directors, OC Directors and Project Managers, in conjunction with Asia-based partners;
• Actively participate in the identification, design, formulation and negotiation of new projects and programs;

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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.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education - Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, international relations, law, public policy, development studies, political science or directly related fields. A first level university degree in combination with 2 additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the university degree.

Experience

• At least 10 years of progressive experience and track record of working preferably on developing innovative solutions/partnerships and initiative in development/non-profit organizations;
• Field experience or experience in developing countries is considered an asset;
• Prior experience working in Asia;
• Prior experience with international organizations or public institutions;
• Prior knowledge of working in the UN environment is an asset.

Languages Requirements

• Fluency in English required;
• Knowledge of another UN official Language would be considered an asset;
• Korean is highly desired.