Consultant for Informal Conflict Resolution
Organizational Context
The Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services (UNOMS) serves as the informal pillar of the internal justice system, providing impartial and neutral services to address work-related concerns of UN employees. This role operates under the general authority of the UN Ombudsman and immediate supervision of the Regional Ombudsman or Chief of Service.
Job Purpose
The Consultant for Conflict Resolution provides alternative dispute resolution services to UN Secretariat employees and other offices served by the informal justice system. The role involves conducting confidential mediations to help parties resolve workplace conflicts, acting as a neutral third party to facilitate discussions and negotiations. Additionally, the consultant promotes awareness of informal conflict resolution services through outreach and skill-building activities, offering expert advice on dispute resolution techniques and collaborating to solve employment-related problems. The position aims to enhance conflict competence among staff and provide accessible support for resolving workplace issues.
Responsibilities
Provide alternative dispute resolution services to UN Secretariat employees and affiliated offices. Conduct voluntary and confidential mediation sessions, acting as a neutral third party to facilitate discussions and negotiations between conflicting parties. Maintain strict neutrality, impartiality, and confidentiality throughout all interactions. Gather relevant information, help identify issues and interests, explore options, and generate solutions. Deliver outreach initiatives to raise awareness of informal conflict resolution services and conduct skill-building activities to enhance staff conflict competence. Offer expert advice on appropriate dispute resolution techniques tailored to individual needs. Collaborate to resolve employment-related problems and advise visitors on available UNOMS services, including follow-up support.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in dispute resolution, management, or legal fields is required. Experience working within an international organizational setting is desirable.
Skills
Mediation, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Conflict Resolution, Neutrality, Impartiality, Confidentiality, Communication, Problem-Solving, Collaboration, Outreach, Skill-building, Advisory Services.