Deputy Representative Operations, (P-4) Fixed Term, #10935, Asmara, Eritrea, ESAR
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 child rights as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a sense of purpose while serving children and communities globally.
Job Purpose
As a Strategic Business Partner and Deputy to the Head of Office, the incumbent will provide senior leadership for the Operations function, contributing to office-wide strategic, programme, and management decisions. The role ensures that operational services, systems, and controls effectively support programme delivery, safeguard UNICEF resources, assist staff and partners, and offer timely, risk-informed, and solution-oriented advice within the Eritrean operating context. This involves leading by example, supporting the Head of Office in overall Country Office management with a focus on operational effectiveness, compliance, staff well-being, and operational continuity. The position also entails acting as Officer in Charge in the Head of Office's absence, ensuring decision-making and management continuity.
Responsibilities
The incumbent will manage services across key operational support areas including budget, financial management and reporting, facilities management, administration, supply and logistics, ICT, human resources, and safety and security, ensuring these functions align with a unified operational vision for the Eritrea Country Office. As a member of the Country and Senior Management Teams, the role represents organizational risk, governance systems, and policy perspectives in management discussions, promoting results-based management. The position requires understanding business needs for the Country Programme to anticipate challenges and propose viable, creative, value-for-money solutions. Key contributions will be made to CPD, CPMP, and AMP, supporting Results Based Management and implementation using Value for Money criteria. Leveraging technology for results and programme accountabilities, effective adoption of tools, and promoting ICT management fundamentals, information security, and controls are essential. The role supports the country office during audits, responding to observations and monitoring recommendation implementation. Guiding supply, logistics, and procurement strategies to meet programmatic needs, considering market limitations, import requirements, and delivery constraints, while ensuring Value for Money, vendor due diligence, and advisory support to national systems and partners, is crucial. The incumbent will leverage governance, systems, and tools to provide feedback on operations functions' risks and achievements. Leadership in facility management, focusing on inclusive accessibility, eco-sustainability, and common premises, is required. Oversight of business transactions processed by GSSC from efficiency, performance, risk management, and fraud prevention perspectives is also a responsibility. Support for private sector fundraising operational requirements will be provided where applicable, prioritizing core country office support, compliance, and service delivery.
Work Experience
A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in operations management, financial management, or a related field is required. Experience in a developing country context is desirable.
Skills
Strategic Leadership, Operations Management, Financial Management, Budgeting and Reporting, Supply Chain Management, Human Resources Management, Information Technology Management, Risk Management, Governance and Compliance, Results-Based Management, Change Management, Stakeholder Engagement