JOB SUMMARY

Under the direct supervision of Risk and Compliance Specialist, the Operations Officer (HACT – Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfer) performs tasks in support of the monitoring and risk control of HACT programming process to facilitate the effective implementation of HACT in line with the UNICEF HACT Policy and UNICEF HACT Procedure. The incumbent also provides professional financial, budget and operational assistance throughout the programming process by preparing, managing and/or executing a variety of technical tasks.

As a strategic business partner, the incumbent will be accountable for operations functions, facilitate change, provide risk informed, solution-focused analysis, advice and services and contribute to programme and management decisions for delivering results for children in specific operational contexts. Operations Officer (HACT) will accomplish this by:

Support to HACT planning during the Operations process: Participate in discussions, collection, analysis, verification and synthesis of HACT related information/documentation to gain good knowledge of HACT and programme planning and implementation. Monitor and track the efficient distribution of supplies that are required for effective programme delivery. Conduct programme monitoring in UNICEF focus districts for cash and supplies and informing team-members on the status. Support the programme section in researching, compiling and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data and information from a variety of sources on subject matters relevant to the work of the section to facilitate programme delivery as well as preparation of reports, working papers and presentations. Participate in the preparation of HACT related materials/documentation to ensure incorporation of HACT in the country programming process.

Support to implementation of HACT activities: Serve as the reference person on HACT implementation in the office. Together with qualified/experienced CO colleagues, undertake spot checks of implementing partners to assess their financial record-keeping, expenditure controls and reporting systems. Provide technical and administrative support to external service providers in the execution of HACT activities to ensure timely and efficient delivery of results. Assist with maintenance of records of relevant HACT related documentation, including CO decisions related to HACT. Carry out transactions in VISION ensuring programme results, activities and programme coding are as per annual work plans (AWPs), making amendments and alterations as per section revisions when necessary.

Review and use of HACT reports: Prepare monitoring and reporting information for supervisor and team on agreed performance indicators to drive more efficient management and accountability for results. Regular monitor budgets and financial expenditures of section by employing applicable tools, ensuring compliance with UNICEF rules and regulations, keeping supervisor informed and advised on actions for decision and/or follow up. Share with implementing partners and CO staff HACT related reports, especially reports of assurance activities, to ensure adequate awareness and follow-up of identified issues.

Networking and inter-agency partnership: Exchange information and/or operational support to implementing partners, UN system partners and other stakeholders in the CO on the implementation of HACT to reinforce UN/CO harmonization and coordination. Build and sustain effective close working partnerships with government counterparts and national stakeholders through active sharing of HACT information and knowledge to facilitate/build their capacity for implementing HACT. Participate in appropriate inter-agency meetings/events to facilitate and promote sharing of information, knowledge, experience and best practices. Interact regularly with other country offices and the regional office on HACT. Support capacity development activities related to programme development by preparing training materials and participating in exercises.

If you would like to know more about this position, please review the complete Job Description here:  Specific JD – Operations Officer (HACT) NO1 BRZ23061.pdf

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

Minimum requirements:

Education:

• A University Degree (Bachelor’s) in one of the following areas is required: Business Management, Financial Management, Accounting, Public Finance, Related operations function (Supply Chain, International Business, Project Management, etc.) A professional license from internationally recognized institutions is an asset.

Work Experience: 

• A minimum of 1 year of professional experience is required specifically in one or more operations management area including budget; financial management and reporting; internal audits; programme/project financial monitoring and oversight.
• Understanding of Results Based Management is a requirement.

Language Requirements: Fluency in English and Portuguese is required. Knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

Desirables:

• Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergency.
• A professional license from internationally recognized institutions.
• Experience in database packages, web-based management systems and ERP systems (preferably SAP financial modules) is considered.
• Experience in working with corporate ERPs (Enterprise Resource Planning) and IPSAS (International Public Sector Accounting Standards) is highly desirable.
• Experience in an UN system agency, large private or public company, or experience working in a developing country and/or humanitarian/ emergency context.
• Experience in supporting successful client-oriented work units.
• Experience in HACT policy and procedures in UNICEF and/or other UN system agencies.