Early Warnings and Early Action Expert

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is the UN system's focal point for coordinating disaster risk reduction efforts. It guides, monitors, and reports on the Sendai Framework, supporting national implementation and global awareness. UNDRR works with member states and partners to strengthen governance, preparedness, and early warning systems, particularly in regions facing recurrent risks like Niger.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to support the operationalization of Niger's Centre Opérationnel de Veille, d’Alerte et de Conduite des Crises (COVACC) by developing and validating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The role will focus on strengthening communication, coordination, and early warning dissemination mechanisms among COVACC members and relevant stakeholders. The objective is to address identified gaps in information management, inter-institutional coordination, and crisis response, ensuring effective crisis management and timely dissemination of early warnings to mitigate the impact of recurrent hazards exacerbated by climate change.

Responsibilities

The consultant will develop a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) document for COVACC, encompassing both operational and communication procedures. This includes clearly defining roles and responsibilities of all members and stakeholders, standardizing information management processes, and integrating multi-hazard early warning systems. The consultant will also establish internal communication protocols between COVACC members and define external communication modalities with authorities, partners, media, and communities. Procedures for validating and disseminating early warnings at all levels will be structured to ensure consistency and responsiveness, aligning with the national institutional framework and existing policies.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of experience in disaster risk reduction, crisis management, or early warning systems is required. Experience in developing or revising SOPs, contingency plans, or emergency coordination mechanisms is desirable, as is experience in institutional coordination, stakeholder facilitation, and early warning/crisis communication systems.

Skills

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) development, Crisis management, Early warning systems, Communication strategies, Institutional coordination, Stakeholder facilitation, Risk analysis, Information management, Disaster risk reduction.

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