Deputy Representative Operations, (P-4) Fixed Term - Accra, Ghana # 5974
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries to save children’s lives and defend their rights. UNICEF Ghana partners with the government and other stakeholders to advance children's rights, focusing on systems strengthening, equity-focused service delivery, and domestic financing. The country faces persistent inequities affecting children, requiring innovative solutions.
Job Purpose
The Deputy Representative, Operations (P-4) in Accra, Ghana, serves as a Strategic Business Partner, leading and overseeing the Operations function to ensure the effective, efficient, and accountable delivery of UNICEF Ghana’s Country Programme. This role provides strategic leadership, policy advice, and operational oversight, contributing to senior management decision-making and supporting the overall management of the Country Office. The incumbent ensures that operations systems, people, resources, and partnerships are aligned to achieve results for children through risk-informed, value-for-money, and fit-for-purpose operational solutions. They act as a trusted advisor on risk, compliance, business continuity, and resource optimization, while driving digital transformation, operational excellence, and collaboration to deliver impactful outcomes for children.
Responsibilities
The Deputy Representative, Operations leads by example, supporting the Head of Office in managing the Country Office and acting as Officer-in-Charge when delegated. They manage operational support services including budget, financial management, facilities management, administration, supply chain, logistics, ICT, and safety/security, ensuring a unified vision. As a member of the Country and Senior Management Teams, they represent organizational risk, governance, and policy perspectives, promoting results-based management. The role drives a strong risk culture, focusing on fiduciary risk management, financial performance, fraud prevention, procurement, and asset management. They understand business needs to anticipate challenges and propose creative, value-for-money solutions. Key contributions include supporting CPD, CPMP, and AMP development using Value for Money criteria, and leveraging technology for results and accountability. The incumbent supports audit reviews, responds to observations, and monitors recommendation implementation. They guide Supply and Logistics strategies for programmatic needs, ensuring Value for Money and providing advisory support to partners. They provide feedback on operations risks and achievements, lead facility management with a focus on sustainability and accessibility, and oversee business transactions for efficiency and risk prevention. Support is also provided to PSFR operations and process efficiency.
Work Experience
A minimum of eight years of professional experience in operations management, financial management, supply chain, or a related area, with at least four years at the international level. Experience in a developing country context is an asset.
Skills
Strategic leadership, Operations management, Financial management, Risk management, Supply chain management, Procurement, Budgeting and financial reporting, Team leadership, Change management, Digital transformation, Partnership building, Policy advice