Chief of Mission (P) - Call for Expression of Interest
Organizational Context
IOM, established in 1951, is the leading UN agency for migration, promoting humane and orderly migration globally. It operates in over 580 locations with more than 16,000 staff, working with partners to save lives, protect migrants, and facilitate regular migration pathways. This role is based in Freetown, Sierra Leone, under the direct supervision of the Chief of Mission (CoM) of the Country Office with Coordination Functions (COCF).
Job Purpose
The Chief of Mission (CoM) is accountable for IOM's activities in the country, providing comprehensive policy, administrative, programme, and financial management support to the Country Office (CO). The role involves developing and promoting IOM's Strategic Plan and programming within the regional framework, reporting to the Resident Coordinator on contributions to UNSDCF objectives and UN development system results. The CoM also informs the COCF and Regional Office about national migration dynamics and governmental concerns, and is responsible for developing new projects, planning organizational activities, and managing the CO's budgetary, financial, and administrative functions.
Responsibilities
The Chief of Mission (CoM) is responsible for strategic country programme development, including planning, project development, and resource mobilization through diverse partnerships. This involves ensuring programme effectiveness aligns with IOM's Strategic Plan and UNSDCF, advising on national policy and migration trends, and advocating for appropriate migration management policies. The CoM oversees ongoing programmes, ensuring high-quality performance and impact, and actively participates in UN Country Team (UNCT) activities, contributing to joint programming and reporting on UNSDCF implementation. Resource management includes directing operational, human resources, administrative, budgetary, and financial activities of the Country Office. The role also involves facilitating knowledge management, developing strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, and representing the Organization. Additionally, the CoM ensures safety and security management, leads the PSEA/SH strategy, and performs other assigned duties.
Work Experience
Required experience includes general management, project and resource management, diplomacy, fundraising, public relations, and liaising with governmental and international institutions. Experience in managing diverse migration programming, encompassing both emergency and development contexts, is also essential.
Skills
Key skills include excellent oral and written communication, speech preparation and delivery, and demonstrated liaison and negotiation abilities. The role requires in-depth knowledge of migration-related subjects, understanding of UN and bilateral donor programming, and familiarity with Monitoring and Evaluation procedures. Effective resource management, financial and business administration skills, and the ability to deliver during crisis response are also crucial. Good computer literacy is expected.