Senior Operations Associate, G-7, Fixed Term Position, #00011329, Antananarivo
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries to save children’s lives and defend their rights. In Madagascar, children face significant development and humanitarian challenges. UNICEF Madagascar's Operations function is crucial for ensuring efficient program delivery, safeguarding resources, and maintaining compliance with organizational standards.
Job Purpose
The Senior Operations Associate (Risk Management and HACT) in UNICEF Madagascar plays a vital role in strengthening the office's risk management and assurance framework. This position supports the proactive identification and mitigation of operational, fiduciary, and compliance risks. It ensures the quality of Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT) activities and follows up on corrective actions. The role promotes efficient resource utilization and continuous process improvement, working collaboratively with programme and operations teams, implementing partners, and field offices to enhance accountability, transparency, value for money, and organizational performance, ultimately supporting sustainable results for children.
Responsibilities
The Senior Operations Associate (Risk Management and HACT) will contribute to the effective implementation of UNICEF Madagascar's risk management framework and provide critical support to assurance activities under the Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT). Key responsibilities include coordinating risk monitoring and reporting processes, ensuring timely and accurate updates on identified risks and mitigation strategies. The incumbent will support the planning and implementation of HACT activities, including micro-assessments, spot checks, and audits, to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement. This role involves facilitating the follow-up on audit and assurance recommendations, tracking progress, and supporting the implementation of corrective actions. Furthermore, the position will contribute to strengthening internal controls and compliance mechanisms across the office. Collaboration with programme and operations teams, field offices, and implementing partners is essential to promote transparency, mitigate risks, and enhance operational effectiveness. The Associate will help ensure that UNICEF resources are managed responsibly and efficiently to achieve sustainable results for children across Madagascar, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the operations function.
Work Experience
At least 7 years of progressively responsible relevant experience in operations, finance/internal control, audit/compliance, implementing partnership management, and/or risk management is required. Experience with HACT and/or assurance over cash transfers to implementing partners is desirable.
Skills
Risk management, Internal controls, Compliance principles, Data analysis, Report writing, Stakeholder management, Priority management, Discretion, HACT framework, Assurance activities, Office tools proficiency