HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS OFFICER (COMPLIANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT)

Organizational Context

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), part of the UN Secretariat, coordinates humanitarian actors for coherent emergency responses. OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate principled humanitarian action, advocate for those in need, promote preparedness, and facilitate sustainable solutions. This role is within the Regional Office for West and Central Africa (ROWCA) in Dakar, reporting to the Head of the Regional Humanitarian Financing Unit.

Job Purpose

The Humanitarian Affairs Officer (Risk Management and Compliance) in Dakar will monitor and analyze humanitarian developments impacting the Regional Humanitarian Financing Western and Central Africa (RHFWCA). The role involves preparing studies on humanitarian issues, managing responses to audits and evaluations, and establishing stakeholder contacts to identify and address compliance issues in funded projects. The incumbent will provide technical assistance, conduct risk management training, and prepare reports and communications related to pooled funds. This position serves as the primary focal point for compliance and risk management, ensuring adherence to global guidelines and advising on policy matters. The role also involves participating in relevant work groups and meetings.

Responsibilities

Monitor, analyze, and report on humanitarian developments and emergency situations affecting the Regional Humanitarian Financing Western and Central Africa (RHFWCA). Organize studies on humanitarian relief and manage follow-up actions for audits and evaluations of Country-Based Pooled Funds (CBPFs). Maintain contact with UN agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders to detect compliance issues in RHFWCA-funded projects and verify control mechanisms. Provide technical assistance, conduct risk management training, and perform in-depth reviews. Prepare reports, documents, and communications on risk management and compliance for pooled funds. Act as the main point of contact for RHFWCA compliance and risk management, staying updated on developments and ensuring monitoring mechanisms align with global guidelines. Advise the RHFWCA fund manager on policy related to compliance and risk management. Participate in work groups, meetings, and consultations on humanitarian relief matters. Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of the Regional Humanitarian Financing Unit.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in humanitarian affairs, emergency preparedness, crisis management, or related fields is required. Field experience in emergency situations (complex emergencies or natural disasters) is mandatory. Experience in compliance and risk management, within the UN system or other international organizations, and in the West and Central Africa region are desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, communication, planning and organizing, analytical capacity, research, problem-solving, ability to work under pressure, gender mainstreaming, data analysis, effective reporting, stakeholder engagement, risk management, compliance monitoring.

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