Information Systems Officer (Chief of Unit)
Organizational Context
The Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT) drives the UN's digital transformation, delivering secure and innovative technology solutions. The Enterprise Solutions Service (OICT/ESS), located in Brindisi, Italy, develops and supports enterprise solutions. This role reports to the Chief of ESS and contributes to OICT's commitment to gender balance and work-life balance.
Job Purpose
The Chief of Unit, reporting to the Chief of ESS, is responsible for planning, overseeing, and managing the Unit's activities and diverse projects. This includes directing major systems projects critical to institutional operations and large user groups. The role provides expert advice on complex systems analysis and design, developing plans for feasibility, requirements, design, development, and implementation. It involves managing contractual services, tracking project progress, and liaising with users. The incumbent will provide professional leadership, mentor staff, and stay abreast of technological advancements. Additionally, the role facilitates client communications, coordinates Service Level Agreements (SLAs), participates in budget planning, and utilizes data visualization for reporting and decision-making.
Responsibilities
Oversee and manage the Unit's activities and diverse projects, ensuring timely execution and coordination. Direct major systems projects impacting critical operations and large user groups. Provide expert advice on complex systems analysis and design, developing comprehensive plans for feasibility, requirements, design, development, and implementation, including project plans, schedules, and cost estimates. Develop cost proposals for contractual services, evaluate technical proposals, and manage contracts. Track and monitor project progress against plans, requirements, and quality standards, maintaining communication with users throughout all project phases. Provide professional leadership and work direction, mentoring junior staff and contract personnel. Stay current with technological developments, evaluate new products, and lead the introduction of technological changes. Facilitate client communications and coordinate the development of Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Participate in budget planning, work program, and spending plan preparation. Analyze data to identify trends and provide insights through data visualization for planning and decision-making.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise software solutions is required. Seven years of experience supporting software needs for complex international organizations (e.g., UN peacekeeping) is also required. Experience managing software development teams, including building and scaling teams for custom ERP/CRM solutions, and leading teams for large-scale ERP platforms is necessary. Five years of experience in recruiting software engineering resources and preparing technical proposals with SLAs and cost estimates is required. Experience with machine learning, AI, and data analytics is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism in systems design, development, management, implementation, and maintenance; strategic analytical capacity; knowledge of programming languages and IT strategy; accountability; client orientation; leadership; project management; systems analysis and design; data analysis and visualization; mentoring; communication; contract management.