Chief Field Office, P-4, Fixed Term Position, Mekelle, Ethiopia, #00116531 (For non-Ethiopian nationals only)

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of children's rights not just as a job, but as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development.

Job Purpose

The Chief Field Office (CFO) is responsible for managing and leading the total programme commitment of a field office within a country programme, reporting to the Chief Field Operations. The CFO represents UNICEF in their Area of Responsibility (AoR), leading and overseeing various program sectors and operational service teams to ensure the delivery of quality results aligned with UNICEF’s cooperation programme, country programme management plan, and the Representative's vision. Given the volatile security environment in Northern Ethiopia, the CFO must possess strong emergency preparedness capacities, including anticipating rapid deterioration, leading risk scenario development, and activating contingency plans to ensure programme continuity, personnel safety, and timely humanitarian assistance delivery, guided by the Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action.

Responsibilities

Represent UNICEF in the region, advancing the agenda for children by participating in meetings and events. Implement measures to ensure the safety and security of UNICEF staff and assets. Lead the Field Office team, managing staff performance and conduct to achieve results for children. Proactively monitor evolving security dynamics, coordinate with UNDSS and stakeholders, and ensure preparedness for sudden security escalations. Support area/country programmes through knowledge management, data collection, analysis, and reporting. Identify critical intervention points by administering a monitoring system and analyzing socio-political-economic trends, integrating conflict risk analysis into programme design and adjusting implementation modalities for fluctuating security conditions. Draft programme work plans and prepare recommendations for programme documentation. Establish programme work plans, monitor compliance, and provide training and guidance to the programme team. Identify human resources requirements and staff development needs. Establish and supervise programme work plans, monitor progress, and ensure compliance. Oversee the allocation and disbursement of programme funds, ensuring coordination, monitoring, and liquidation. Optimize the use of programme funds and ensure programme efficiency and delivery through rigorous planning and monitoring.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in programme management, humanitarian action, or related fields, with at least two years in a developing country context. Experience in emergency preparedness and response is highly desirable.

Skills

Programme Management, Leadership, Emergency Preparedness, Security Management, Risk Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Humanitarian Action, Data Analysis, Reporting, Staff Management, Budget Management, Interpersonal Skills

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