Switzerland: Advisor, Strategic Management and Residual Contamination

Context

The Strategies and Standards division is one of three divisions working under the Director of Operations. It focusses its services and technical expertise on high level long-term planning, standardisation and quality management in support of national mine action authorities and the wider mine action sector. In addition to being the GICHD division responsible for the development of International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) emphasis is placed on; providing technical assistance, training and capacity development, conducting research, producing publications, developing tools and work methods, supporting the development, improvement and implementation of national mine action strategies and developing and improving national mine action standards (NMAS). These activities will strengthen national ownership and mine action’s contribution to broader human security. All components of the Strategies and Standards division work in synergy with each other as well as with the other divisions under the Directorate of Operations.

Key responsibilities

Responsible to the Head of Division, the Advisor, Strategic Management and Residual Contamination is in charge of inter alia the following responsibilities:

• Provide training and technical assistance to national governments, national mine action authorities, mine action centres, security services, mine/ERW operators, UN agencies, etc. on any issues related to strategic management; strategic planning, transition to national ownership and, management of residual contamination. Maintain and strengthen partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate outreach activities and enhance cooperation on joint projects.
• Plan, develop and manage projects (including financial management) and advise and support the development of national capacity, policies and procedures to enable affected countries to respond adequately and to manage the long term risks left by mines/ERW.
• Create/manage/liaise with advisory groups when appropriate for guidance on the risk management of residual contamination, or any other topic.
• Organise workshops, meetings and side events as needed.
• Provide assistance and guidance for the conduct of reviews and evaluations of national programmes and strategies, as requested by national mine action authorities, mine action centres, UN agencies, NGOs, etc.
• Ensure that international convention obligations (e.g. APMBC and CCM) are taken into account during project planning, implementation and monitoring and that outreach activities reinforce the compliance with conventions’ obligations where appropriate.
• As project manager, contribute to project proposals, work plans, global and annual reports; manage project budget, finances and consultants.
• Fulfil the role of a ‘country focal point’ for one or more specifically allocated countries. This includes maintaining an up to date understanding of country contexts, including but not limited to; general context, impact of mines/ERW, treaty obligations, security situation and GICHD interventions across thematic competencies.
• Manage related GICHD publications, which may involve conducting or commissioning research, drafting and reviewing publications.

Other duties

• Develop training packages as an element of the corporate knowledge and memory.
• Work in line with, and actively contribute to, the GICHDs Results-based Management approach.
• Mainstream best gender and diversity practices; respect and promote gender equality and diversity.
• Provide direction, supervision and guidance to junior programme officers and consultants contracted on projects and studies related to the Strategies and Standards Division.

The post is based in Geneva with a monthly travel requirement to the countries of focus, with a global scope. The position will also assist other projects as appropriate and will work in close collaboration with other Advisors in the Risk Management, Information Management and Strategies & Standards divisions, who specialise in mine action operational efficiency, residual contamination, national standards and strategies and information management. The Advisors are also expected to represent GICHD in international events; provide general or technical presentations to partners and diplomatic representatives; and play an active role in the organisation’s strategic management and in the reporting to GICHD’s governance and donor institutions.

Profile requirements

Essential requirements

• Minimum five years of progressive experience in mine action operations and programme management, in different countries/regions.
• Substantial knowledge and experience of strategic management and planning in mine action.
• Sound understanding of the importance of information management, including data collection and analysis.
• Substantial experience and competence in project management, including; planning, implementing, monitoring, reporting and financial management.
• Proven experience of working with different national authorities/centres in mine affected countries.
• Knowledge of International Mine Action Standards, including their application.
• Capacity and flexibility to review and develop new/improved approaches to the long-term management of residual contamination.
• Ability to work effectively in teams with colleagues from various backgrounds.
• Competence in training adults from different cultures and/or in capacity development of local counterparts.
• Ability to research and write for technical as well as non-technical publications, guides and reports.
• Fluent English, verbal and written, with the ability to communicate clearly and constructively with a wide range of stakeholders from diverse cultures.
• Availability to travel and operate in potentially unstable regions

Desirable requirements

• Knowledge of, and experience in, the application of Quality Management Systems and Results Based Management is highly desirable.
• A post-graduate degree or equivalent military diploma in a relevant subject of study.
• Understanding and experience in mainstreaming gender and diversity issues.
• Working knowledge of French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Portuguese or another language practised in mine-ERW affected countries.

Applications

Please apply through the GICHD Job Application Portal. Your application must be presented in English and include a CV of maximum 5 pages, a letter of motivation, your earliest date of availability and any other additional material you wish to present in support of your candidacy.

The GICHD implements a Gender and Diversity policy and is an equal opportunities employer. Applications are encouraged from women and men, nationals of mine-affected countries and individuals with a disability or special needs, who meet the above profile requirements.