Background
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  UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.  

Under the overall leadership and guidance of the United Nations Country Team (UNCT), the Operations Management Team (OMT) endeavors to facilitate the implementation of Delivery as One (DaO) by harmonizing operational policies of UN agencies, funds and programs in Sri Lanka. Moreover, the OMT proposes and implements inter-agency initiatives to ensure the quality of support services, while utilizing resources effectively.

Within this context, the OMT has decided to adopt and implement UN Development Group’s (UNDG) results-based framework to enhance the planning, monitoring and management of the UNCT’s business operations and support to program delivery. This Business Operations Strategy (BOS) outlines the UNCT priorities in the field of common operations, guided by the priority areas identified under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023- 2027. The BOS aims to improve the quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness of the UN’s support to program delivery. The Business operations Associate will  facilitate the reporting,  monitoring and implementation of the BOS, and engage in supporting day to day operational matters of OMT and its working groups. 
 

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationships: The position is located in the Operations Management Secretariat in Sri Lanka and reports to the Chair / Co-Chair of the OMT. 
  Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities: Within delegated authority, the Business Operations Associate will be responsible to undertake functions related to coordination of data collection and analysis, interpretation, reporting and implementation of BOS support activities and other operational activities under the UN Secretary General’s Reform Agenda, in particular the BOS Online Platform and Efficiency Agenda initiatives

Summary of Functions:

Coordination and support the implementation of the Business Operations Strategy Coordinate, support, and report on the Country Common Premises Plan (CCPP) Support OMT and its Working Groups on common services  Maintain a fully functional Secretariat for the OMT Knowledge Sharing

Description of Functions:

1.Coordinate and support the implementation of the Business Operations Strategy

Coordinate the implementation of the BOS activities through data collection and analysis and timely information sharing with BOS Taskforce and OMT, and its Working Groups. Provide the OMT with required data for continually implementing the BOS and working closely with OMT and its Working Groups and give, administrative and logistical support for the successful completion of the BOS; Function as the BOS Focal Point for UNCT/ OMT Sri Lanka and to update and keep all OMT Members updated on any recent developments to the BOS Guidelines. Coordinate the BOS Annual Review by liaising with the various stakeholder involved to ensure timely completion of the exercise. Coordinate capacity building workshops pertaining to further strengthening of the operationalization of the BOS at the country level along the different working groups.

2. Coordinate and support the implementation of the Country Common Premises Plan (CCPP)

Coordinate the implementation of the CCPP through data collection and analysis and timely information sharing with the OMT and the Common Services subcommittee. Coordinate the CCPP in close coordination with the premises manager to review as per the established global guidelines while structuring them to fit the local context. Function as a Common Premises Champion in country. Facilitate knowledge sharing sessions, and capacity building of OMT members and other stakeholders involved in the roll out and implementation of activities under the CCPP and its review

3. Support OMT and its Working Groups on common services

Support the development of, and report on the implementation of the OMT and working group annual work plans. Support the preparation of feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses.

4. Maintain a fully functional Secretariat for the OMT

Organize  meetings and support OMT, OMT Working Groups and BOS taskforce Committee as necessary. Support and set up, coordinate the annual work plan and budget for the OMT Manage and track expenditure in coordination with UNDP Finance team and advise the Chair/Co-Chair on remedial actions required pertaining to the OMT budget Sharing of the OMT Meeting Minutes and OMT working groups’ progress and action points in a timely manner.  Coordinate between UN Agencies, Government, and relevant counterparts to promote a One UN approach towards programme and operational coordination. Support the OMT with piloting innovative tools that will enhance operational efficiencies. Supports the roll out of existing initiatives that support the DaO agenda. Undertake any other activities assigned by the Chair/Co-Chair of the OMT.

 

Competencies  

Corporate Competencies:

Demonstrates integrity by modelling the UN’s values and ethical standards Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the UN Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability Treats all people fairly  Fulfils all obligations to gender sensitivity and zero tolerance for sexual harassment.

Functional Competencies:

Strong communication skills and capacity to build and maintain partnerships with a number of stakeholders (UN Agencies, Government entities, other development partners and the private sector) Fully proficient computer skills and use of relevant software and other applications, e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, internet, power point and experience in handling of web-based management systems. Excellent interpersonal skills, proven networking, team building and organizational skills. Seeks and applies knowledge, information, and best practices inside and outside the UN A self-starter, able to inspire and influence action and work under pressure Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive constructive attitude Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality

Technical Competencies

Ability to undertake research Demonstrates strong analytical oral and written communications skills
  Required Skills and Experience
 

Education/Qualifications: 

Advanced Level/Secondary education 

OR

Bachelor’s degree in development studies, economics, business administration, project management, , or a related discipline

Experience:

Minimum 1 year (Bachelor’s degree) or 6 years (Secondary education) of progressively responsible work experience in providing coordination, administrative and operational support Evidence of research and analytical skills an asset Prior experience with the UN system an advantage Experience handling project administration and management of logistics  Coordination experience an asset

Language Requirements: 

Fluency in English and Sinhala and/or Tamil with excellent written and oral communications skills is essential

Disclaimer
  Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders) 
  Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment. 
  UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.
  Applicant information about UNDP rosters
  Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
  Non-discrimination
  UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.  
  UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status. 
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This vacancy is archived.

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