Head of Secretariat - RIISE

Organizational Context

UNOPS operates across 23 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on resilient infrastructure, public health, and institutional capacity building to advance Sustainable Development Goals. The Barbados Country Office acts as a strategic hub for 17 Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS), streamlining regional logistics and fostering collaboration to deliver high-value solutions in areas like economy, nature, climate, and infrastructure.

Job Purpose

The Head of Secretariat will lead Phase 1 of the Caribbean Resilient Infrastructure Implementation and Skills Exchange (RIISE) Facility, focusing on its set-up and strategic positioning over the first two years. This role involves building alliances to expand the Facility's reach and transition it into a sustainable, regionally owned mechanism. The position will initially support Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with potential for expansion to other Caribbean countries based on demand and funding. The ultimate goal is to enhance climate resilience in Caribbean nations through effective delivery of climate-resilient infrastructure initiatives.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership by designing and advancing relevant strategies, frameworks, and operational guidelines for RIISE. Achieve strategic positioning through engagement with regional stakeholders, including the Steering Committee and Technical Advisory Panel, and champion external visibility. Oversee operational leadership and governance by managing work plans, performance, resources, and operational systems in alignment with objectives. Offer technical advisory and quality assurance by anticipating challenges, analyzing policy implications, and ensuring technical excellence. Lead and manage personnel by motivating the Secretariat team, ensuring behavioral expectations, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a culture of respect and accountability.

Work Experience

Requires at least seven years of professional experience in programme/project management at a senior level within international or regional institutions. Proven experience in translating strategies into actionable plans in multi-stakeholder environments, building high-level stakeholder relationships, and working with Caribbean institutions is essential. People management experience is also required.

Skills

Business Management, Business Process Management, Facility Management, Needs Analysis, Strategic Alliances, Strategic Partnerships

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