Chief of Service, Programme Management

Organizational Context

This position is within the Strategic Heritage Plan at the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG). The Chief of Service reports to the Project Director of the Strategic Heritage Plan project, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2028. The role is integral to the project's management and successful conclusion.

Job Purpose

The Chief of Service is responsible for formulating and implementing the substantive work program of the Strategic Heritage Plan (SHP). This involves setting priorities, allocating resources, and ensuring efficient and timely project execution. The role requires leading a team of approximately 16 staff and contractors, overseeing all SHP activities, and coordinating efforts within the project and with other UN entities. A key aspect is managing programme management, financial control, and support arrangements, including communications and contracting strategies, to keep the project on time and budget while mitigating risks. The incumbent will also oversee administrative tasks, prepare reports for intergovernmental bodies, manage audits, and provide strategic leadership for project closure activities, ensuring effective risk management, resource optimization, and lessons learned documentation.

Responsibilities

Formulate and implement the SHP's substantive work program, setting priorities and allocating resources for efficient and timely project execution. Lead and supervise a team of approximately 16 staff and contractors, overseeing all SHP activities and coordinating efforts within the project and with other UN System organizations. Manage programme management, financial control, and support arrangements, including communications and contracting strategies, to ensure the project stays on time and budget while mitigating risks. Oversee programmatic and administrative tasks, including budget preparation, performance reporting, and staff performance evaluations. Provide strategic leadership for project closure, ensuring orderly completion of deliverables, effective risk management, resource optimization, and documentation of lessons learned. Coordinate information and responses for external and internal audits. Ensure high-quality outputs and compliance with mandates. Recruit staff, considering geographical balance, and foster teamwork and communication. Represent the SHP in relevant meetings and discussions.

Work Experience

A minimum of fifteen years of progressive experience in fields such as human resources, administration, logistics, procurement, financial management, or budget is required. This includes at least seven years in program or project management, with experience in planning and implementing large-scale international projects. Senior-level experience in resource planning, contract management, project management, and cost control/monitoring is also required. Experience with intergovernmental reporting, European contracting/legal environments, and relevant IT systems (ERP, project management software) is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Planning & Organizing, Accountability, Leadership, Judgement/Decision-making, Project Management Methodologies, Financial Control, Contract Management, Risk Management, Team Leadership, Communication, Reporting, Budget Management, Staff Development, UN Regulations & Policies.

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