Background Information - Job-specific
This retainer position is located in the Risk and Compliance Group (RCG). RCG is a strategic amalgamation of key Second Line of Defence functions at UNOPS headquarters, embodying UNOPSโ commitment to managing corporate risks effectively and aligning UNOPSโ operations with UN core values. RCGโs focus is on ensuring best practices in risk management, quality, compliance, internal controls, and due diligence.
The Senior Compliance Advisor will support RCG in the management of an organization-wide compliance capability and an enabling, dedicated compliance function which looks at exposures to key compliance risks, ensures appropriate controls are in place; provides monitoring, training and guidance activity; and ensures that UNOPS complies with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures that govern its operations.
Functional Responsibilities
Under the overall guidance of the Director, Risk and Compliance Group, the Senior Compliance
Advisor will have the following duties:
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Advice and provide technical expertise in the management of the compliance function and culture within UNOPS, including through contributing to the development of internal compliance policies and procedures.
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Continuously review UNOPSโ compliance capabilities and assess whether they are fit for purpose and reflective of recognised best practice.
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Review key compliance obligations (internal and external) and activities across UNOPS to ensure the full picture of compliance efforts is known and assessed for efficacy.
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Review existing compliance policies and procedures, and assess if they are adequate or need revision, and advise on implementation of best practices.
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Undertake compliance risk assessments to ascertain what compliance risks UNOPS is exposed to and to drive effective prioritization of compliance activities
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Provide technical advice on the implementation of a UNOPS-wide plan to integrate the different elements of a risk-based compliance and monitoring framework.
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Recommend systemic (cross-functional) solutions for minimizing non-compliance and advise on the implementation of adequate internal controls, in consultation with the relevant functional groups/units.
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Contribute to the preparation of periodic compliance updates and reports as required.
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Assess the need for additional compliance tools, knowledge and systems, as well as related training support.
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As a technical expert, support the recruitment process for new positions in the Risk and Compliance Group and other functions with Compliance needs.
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In consultation with the Due Diligence Unit and other functional groups, contribute to drafting a comprehensive AML/CFT framework, building strong internal controls and compliance monitoring within engagements, procurement, and grant support agreements.
Competencies
Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization. Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground. Education/Experience/Language requirements
Education:
- A Master's degree in law, international relations, public/business administration, finance and accounting or other relevant fields is required.
Experience:
At least ten (10) years of professional compliance experience, preferably in an international setting is required. Experience in reviewing compliance frameworks is required. Experience in developing compliance programmes is required. Experience in developing policy management and internal standard operating procedures are required. Experience in advising on organizational change is an asset. Experience in investigative and auditing activities is an asset. Some experience in the UN system organizations and/or a developing country is desirable. Experience in advising on implementing policies and procedures to deliver a range of complex services in national and/or international public or corporate organizations is an asset. Experience of working in a multicultural environment is an asset.Language requirements:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is required; Working knowledge of either Spanish or French is an asset.Contract type, level and duration
Contract type: International Individual Contractor Agreement (Retainer)
Contract level: ICS-12/ IICA-3
Contract duration: Retainer for initial period of 1 year, extensions subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance
** IMPORTANT INFORMATION **
Retainer positions are not full-time positions. They constitute a contract whereby the Retainer may be requested to provide a specific output/deliverable within a specified period of time, on short notice. When holding a retainer contract, individuals may receive ad-hoc requests from the UNOPS project teams or country offices, and the quantity of requests will vary depending on the current needs. UNOPS shall have no obligation to obtain any minimum quantity of services from the Individual Contractor during the duration of the retainer ICA. It is possible to have multiple consultancy contracts with or outside UNOPS, as long as it is declared to the UNOPS Ethics Office. Read more about the ICA retainer modality here.
Additional Information
Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
Terms and Conditions
For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
For retainer contracts, you must complete a few mandatory courses ( they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. Refreshers or new mandatory courses may be required during your contract. Please note that you will not receive any compensation for taking courses and refreshers. For more information on a retainer contract here.
All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.