UN HABITAT - United Nations Human Settlements Programme
Accra, Ghana
Org. Setting and Reporting
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-HABITAT, is the United Nations agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all. The post is located in the Urban Basics Services Branch (UBSB), Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) Unit, Accra, Ghana. Under the overall guidance of the Coordinator of UBSB and the direct supervision of the Unit leader, Water and Sanitation Unit, the incumbent will be responsible for the following:
Responsibilities
- Coordinate the development and implementation of the work programme of the Branch in West Africa by: a) Identifying needs and opportunities and advising the Coordinator on new substantive directions and activities to pursue within the region; b) Participating in advisory missions to carry out consultations and other activities aimed at the development of strategies and programmes; c) Preparing proposals for resource mobilization; d) Assisting in the implementation of UN-Habitat Strategy and work plan in the West African Region; e) Providing financial, contractual and budgetary oversight; f) Providing guidance to national Governments in support of the development of the UN-Habitat Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) network. g) Preparing and submitting regular status reports on WASH activities;
- Providing management/operational support for the Joint UN Programme on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Disaster Prone Communities in Northern Ghana by: a) Leading the process for information gathering, collation and management; (b) Operationalising resilient WASH solutions to increase access to services in disaster prone communities; (c) Promoting education programmes and awareness of hygiene practices within the beneficiary communities and schools; (d) Enhancing local capacity to sustainably manage the WATSAN facilities and related services; (e) Contributing to measures to enhance disaster preparedness; (e) Planning resource requirements and setting priorities for the implementation of activities and the allocation of inputs; (f) Developing mechanisms for ensuring systematic mainstreaming of cross cutting issues of gender, youth and human rights in the project activities; (g) Monitoring emerging needs during implementation and offering assistance in meeting those needs; (h) Identifying actions, designing proposals these actions, and formulating implementation modalities; (i) Ensuring proper documentation of programme experiences; (j) coordinating and monitoring project progress; (k) Coordinating the
preparation of regular project reports; (l) Providing substantive guidance to meetings of the Steering Committee and the Joint UN and National implementing Partners. - Performing any other relevant duties as may be assigned.
Competencies
PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to the urban basic services sector. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm
in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
PLANNING AND ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
Education
Advanced University degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Urban and Regional Planning/ Management, Urban Economics, Engineering or related field. A first university degree with a combination of two years professional and academic qualifications may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
Work Experience
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in Urban Basic Sevices or related field. Qualifying years of experience are calculated following the receipt of the first level university degree recognized by the United Nations. Experience in project or programme development and management is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of a second UN language is an advantage