Overview
The Head of Programme (HoP) reports to the Multi-Country or Country Office Director and is responsible for programme development planning, preparation, and managing all stages of programming to achieve results. The role contributes to developing and implementing strategies to enhance UNOPS' competencies and position in sustainable project management and services.
Tasks Summary
- Accept responsibility for project portfolio oversight as delegated by the Director and through the role of Project Executive on Project Boards.
- Establish and execute programme implementation plans, including setting objectives, performance measurements, standards, and results.
- Monitor and supervise the timely and cost-effective implementation of the programme.
- Supervise the Programme Management Office (PMO) and ensure compliance with UNOPS standards and best project management practices.
- Ensure proactive programme and project risk identification and assessment, and implementation of mitigation measures.
- Mentor and assist Project Managers in planning, execution, and delivery of projects.
- Facilitate timely and accurate project tracking, analysis of outputs, and reporting.
- Lead and guide the development for the entire MCO strategy, establish priorities, and oversee portfolio implementation.
- Support the Director in ensuring financial sustainability of the programme and delivery of desired results.
- Submit mandated reports and critical issues to the Director and clients.
- Analyze and keep abreast of political and development trends to identify and propose areas for UNOPS engagement.
- Manage and oversee the preparation of programme documents.
- Ensure accurate and timely completion of programme/business recommendations.
- Consult and collaborate with internal and external colleagues and partners.
- Act as the Gender Focal Point for the Office and assume accountability for Gender Mainstreaming.
- Keep abreast and assess the needs of national governments and other UNOPS partners.
- Plan and propose required programme resources (human and financial) to the Director.
- Compile, monitor, and submit revenue and expenditure forecasts.
- Determine pricing strategies.
- Manage programme resources in accordance with UNOPS standards.
- Plan, recruit, manage, and develop programme personnel/technical experts.
- Promote teamwork, collaboration, and diversity.
- Foster a positive work environment.
- Plan, conduct, and/or respond to UNOPS performance evaluation reviews and surveys.
- Build and strengthen strategic partnerships.
- Support the business development function.
- Work closely with the partnership unit to ensure capture of lessons learned.
- Contribute to current and future growth plans for the Office.
- Support Communication Specialists to develop communication strategies.
- Participate and/or represent the Office in inter-agency discussions and planning.
- Drive high-quality, well-informed decisions for effective and measurable outcomes.
- Ensure corporate reporting, information flow, and appropriate escalation of emerging risks.
- Champion risk management through a 'tone at the top' leadership approach.
- Manage risks proactively and address issues effectively.
- Keep abreast of and incorporate best practices, approaches, and technology.
- Operationalise and share best practices and lessons learned.
- Draft policy papers and/or recommend policy changes.
- Lead the planning, implementation, and organization of strategic capacity building.
Experience Requirements
- Required Relevant experience is work in strategic and managerial leadership within public affairs, including oversight of complex portfolios such as infrastructure and large, multi-sector projects.
- Experience should include business development planning, operational management, and leading cross-functional initiatives within large corporate or international organizations, or in closely related environments.
- A minimum of four (4) years working in a PMO environment is required.
- Desired Experience of working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in a developing country is desired.
- Experience in establishing and managing complex partnerships, including bilaterals with governments or other UN entities, is considered a strong asset.
- Experience in development or humanitarian contexts is desired.
Qualification Requirements
- Required Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, Public Administration, Social Science, and/or other related discipline with 10 years of relevant experience is required.
- OR Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, Public Administration, Social Science, and/or other related discipline with 12 years of relevant experience.
- Desired PRINCE2® Foundation/Practitioner is an asset.
- Programme/Project Management Professional (MSP® or PMI-PgMP/PMI-PMP) is an asset.
