Background
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.
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.
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 SharingDescription 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 review3. 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 confidentialityTechnical Competencies
Ability to undertake research Demonstrates strong analytical oral and written communications skillsEducation/Qualifications:
Advanced Level/Secondary educationOR
Bachelor’s degree in development studies, economics, business administration, project management, , or a related disciplineExperience:
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 assetLanguage Requirements:
Fluency in English and Sinhala and/or Tamil with excellent written and oral communications skills is essential
DisclaimerThis vacancy is archived.