Programme Officer (Information Management), P-4. OCHA, Geneva. Open until 2 August 2011

Job Title:
Programme Officer [Information Management], P4
Department/ Office:
OFFICE FOR THE COORDINATION OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS
Duty Station: GENEVA

Posting Period:
3 June 2011-2 August 2011
Job Opening number:
11-IMA-ocha-19920-R-GENEVA

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity


Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Geneva, Switzerland. The Programme Officer reports to the Chief, Information Services Section.


Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Programme Officer (Information Management) will be responsible for the following duties:
Develops, implements and evaluates assigned humanitarian information management programmes/projects, etc.; monitors and analyzes programme/project development and implementation; reviews relevant documents and reports; identifies problems and issues to be addressed and initiates corrective actions; liaises with relevant parties; ensures follow-up actions.
Performs advisory and technical assignments in information management, disaster response, complex emergencies and early recovery. These services will be provided to the Resident / Humanitarian Coordinator by assisting in developing of plans and strategies to manage information in support of the Afghanistan Humanitarian Country Team and Clusters/Sectors in the area of disaster preparedness, disaster response and complex emergencies.
Coordinates policy development, including the review and analysis of humanitarian issues and trends, preparation of evaluations or other research activities and studies.
Generates survey initiatives; designs data collection tools; reviews, analyzes and interprets responses, identify problems/issues and prepares conclusions.
Organizes and prepares written outputs, e.g. draft background papers, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc.
Initiates and coordinates outreach activities in the area of humanitarian information management; conducts training workshops, seminars, etc.; makes presentations on assigned topics/activities.
Leads and/or participates in large, complex field missions, including provision of guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties and drafting mission summaries, etc, in the area of humanitarian information management.
Carries out managerial responsibilities of the Information Management Unit relating to compliance with administrative requirements, programme planning and implementation, policy and procedure recommendations, budgeting, human resources and facilities management.
Performs other duties as required.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Advanced knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to the management of information in disaster preparedness, disaster response, complex emergencies and early recovery . Ability to identify issues, analyze humanitarian trends, and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources and analytical methods. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Ability to work under extreme pressure, on occasion in a highly stressful environment (e.g. civil strife, natural disasters and human misery). Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies. Identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required. Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work. Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning. Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. Uses time efficiently.
TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS: Keeps abreast of available technology. Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office. Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks. Shows willingness to learn new technology.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Business Administration, Disaster Management, Information Management, Social Sciences, Statistics or a related field. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in disaster management, humanitarian programme management, early recovery, transition, or other related area, including at least two years of experience at the international level. Experience in managing information in a disaster response and/or complex emergencies in countries affected by disasters or conflict is required.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this post, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of a second official United Nations language is an advantage

United Nations Considerations

The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations - Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.

Assessment Method

Short-listed candidates will be required to take a technical test before being considered for a competency based interview.

Special Notice

Extension of the appointment is subject to Extension of the mandate and/or the availability of the funds.
Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers In accordance with established rules and procedures.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, TRAINING OR ANY OTHER FEES). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON BANK ACCOUNTS.