The duties and responsibilities of the ICS-10 and ICS-11 Operations and Head of ...
The duties and responsibilities of the ICS-10 and ICS-11 Operations and Head of Operations, respectively, are similar to each other, with the difference in grades being determined by the complexity, funding portfolio, and other criteria linked to the level of responsibility of the specific position. An Operations Officer may be responsible for all aspects of the Terms of Reference or may be specialized into one or more areas only. An Operatoins Officer may also be responsible for managing junior staff.
Reporting to the Head of Operations or Head of Project Unit, the Operations Officer will carry out the following tasks:
1. Operations - Design and planning
Support the Head of Operations in providing input to the Head of Project Unit (HPU) on programme and project design documents from an operational and technical standpoint, such as:
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Workplan (e.g. nature of threat, technical personnel and equipment requirements, etc.)
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Concept of Operations
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Input into the documents above is from the operational and technical aspects encompassing mine action pillars (e.g. clearance, explosive ordnance risk education, victim assistance, advocacy and stockpile destruction)
Ensure that implementation plans have viable timelines, are assigned appropriate resources, and that implementation options reflect the knowledge of the context, as well as UNOPS’ mechanisms and policies. Key implementation documents include:
2. Operations - Implementation and monitoring
Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with UNOPS policies and standards, such as:
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Financial and procurement rules
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Contract and grant management policies
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Project management standards
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Health, safety, social and environmental standards
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Gender parity and mainstreaming policies
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Information management systems and standards
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Organizational design standards and human resources policies
Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with mine action technical standards, such as:
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International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) and corresponding National Technical Specifications and Guidelines (NTSGs)
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International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG)
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Modular Small Arms Control Implementation Compendium (MOSAIC)
Oversee, coordinate, and monitor mine action operations and performance (both operations conducted in-house and those conducted through third-party contractors and grantees), including:
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Ensure third-party contracts and grants are delivered in accordance with contractual / grant terms and conditions, including in accordance with mine action technical, operational and quality assurance processes (Implementation Plan, SOPs, task orders issuance, accreditation)
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Review all performance reports and populate internal monitoring and reporting mechanisms (i.e. grant and contract management plans) to inform the monthly payment process
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Advise the Head of Operations on potential technical and operational issues that may impact the achievement of programme / project outcomes and appropriate solutions
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Participate in Boards of Inquiry as relevant
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Ensure operational plans are effective and reviewed regularly
3. Stakeholder management
4. People management
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Mentor and advise operations personnel in planning, execution and delivery of allocated projects, ensuring incorporation of best operational processes
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Promote teamwork, collaboration and diversity by providing the Operations team with clear direction, objectives and guidance to enable them to perform their duties responsibly, effectively and efficiently
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Directly lead national and international UNOPS personnel in a multicultural team, ensuring a professional, ethical and well-managed operations team
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Foster a positive and enabling work environment, respectful of all genders, and ensure that the highest standards of conduct are observed
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Ensure that regular performance reviews are conducted, and any issues are immediately addressed
5. Knowledge management and innovation
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Ensure records of operations-related files are well maintained
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Effectively manage efficient and effective operations in area of responsibility
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Keep abreast of and incorporate latest / best practices, approaches and technology to enhance operational results