Result of Service

1.Advise on resource mobilization and budgeting needed for the transition, identifying potential gaps in funding or resources that need to be addressed. 2.Analyze the current MoU (signed in January 2022) and identify key operational and personnel elements that require transition under the new Framework MoU. 3.Engage with relevant departments (e.g., PCKMD, Division of Administration, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Budget and Finance Section, Chief of Staff, Secretary of the Commission, Legal Office, etc.) and conduct technical discussions to outline necessary operational changes. 4.Ensure that the transition plan reflects leadership’s commitment to accelerating the process, incorporating strategic timelines and milestones.

Work Location

ADDIS ABABA

Expected duration

Two (2) months

Duties and Responsibilities

The Publications, Conference, and Knowledge Management Division (PCKMD) of the Economic Commission for Africa seeks to recruit a qualified and experienced consultant to provide expert advisory and facilitation services in designing a transition plan from the current Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNOPS to a new MoU framework recently signed by the UN Secretariat. The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) currently operates under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) that was signed in January 2022, covering operational support services. This agreement involves personnel recruitment and administration through UNOPS, supporting ECA’s operational capacity with critical services such as conference management, communications, and information technology. A new Framework MoU between UNOPS and the UN Secretariat, effective May 2024, mandates a revised approach, particularly regarding personnel and procurement services. This transition is crucial as it involves a large number of personnel recruited through UNOPS, who are essential to ECA’s operations. Leadership has emphasized the need for accelerating this transition, necessitating expert guidance. The consultant will work under the general guidance of the Director of the Publications, Conference, and Knowledge Management Division (PCKMD) and the three section chiefs of the Division, closely coordinating with other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and effective transition. The consultant shall: 1. Analyze the current MoU (signed in January 2022) and identify key operational and personnel elements that require transition under the new Framework MoU. 2. Develop a detailed transition plan, considering the new MoU requirements, with focus on personnel management and legal compliance. 3. Engage with relevant departments (e.g., PCKMD, Division of Administration, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Budget and Finance Section, Chief of Staff, Secretary of the Commission, Legal Office, etc.) and conduct technical discussions to outline necessary operational changes. 4. Assist in reviewing the status of UNOPS personnel under the current MoU and provide recommendations for transitioning to the new framework, ensuring that critical operational services continue without interruption. 5. Ensure that the transition plan reflects leadership’s commitment to accelerating the process, incorporating strategic timelines and milestones. 6. Prepare and facilitate meetings with relevant stakeholders to gather input and ensure alignment across divisions. 7. Advise on resource mobilization and budgeting needed for the transition, identifying potential gaps in funding or resources that need to be addressed. 8. Submit regular progress reports and a final comprehensive report, including recommendations for sustaining operational capacity during and after the transition period.

Qualifications/special skills

Advanced degree in Business Administration, Project Management, or related fields. A minimum of 15 years of professional experience, including at least 10 years in operational support, human resources, and project management within international organizations or the UN system is required. Familiarity with UN operational frameworks, Human Resources, MoUs, and operational practices is desirable. Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of French is desirable.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.