Background

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security.

Placing women’s rights at the center of all its efforts, UN Women leads and coordinates United Nations System efforts to ensure that commitments on gender equality and gender mainstreaming translate into action throughout the world. It provides strong and coherent leadership in support of Member States’ priorities and efforts, building effective partnerships with civil society and other relevant actors.

Afghanistan is one of the world’s most complex emergencies, and the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Afghan people are grappling with the impact of conflict, poverty, economic decline, and natural disasters. In this context, Afghan women and girls face unique vulnerabilities and require urgent support as gender inequality is interwoven with conflict dynamics and humanitarian needs. It is essential that Afghan women and girls can continue to shape the development of their country, and that their gains are protected. UN Women remains fully committed to supporting Afghan women and girls and to putting them at the center of the global response to the crisis in Afghanistan.

UN Women has been in Afghanistan for two decades. UN Women’s programming approach is informed by analysis of the political, economic and humanitarian situation, risks to and capacities of partner organizations, and needs of Afghan women and girls. UN Women Afghanistan currently has four key programme priorities: (1) Gender in Humanitarian Action, (2) Ending Violence Against Women (EVAW), (3) Women’s Economic Empowerment, and (4) Women, Peace and Security.

Under the direct supervision of UN Women’s Head of Sub-Office and the overall guidance of UN Women’s Security Specialist, the Local Security Assistant (LSA) assists in the implementation of security operations and all matters relating to the management of safety and security for UN-Women personnel Afghanistan’s Western Region.

Duties and Responsibilities

1.  Assists the Security Specialist in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in the operational area:

• Liaises and coordinates, as appropriate, with DSS, local authorities security organizations and/or personnel, including national and local provincial authorities, military, and police officers, as well as non-governmental organizations and other non-State actors in the area of operation;
• Helps to assess the security situation at the duty station and ensures adequate gathering and verification of security information; that may be required for a proper analysis of the situation by the Security Specialist;
• Maintains regular contacts with Security Focal Points and LSAs of UN agencies;
• May be requested to provide technical assistance at meetings, in the absence of the Security Specialist;

2.  Assists in maintaining the Security Plan, including updating staff lists:

• Helps in the preparation and review of the UN Security Plan;
• Supports actions during the implementation of the Security Plan, as required;

3.  Assists the Security Specialist in monitoring compliance with Security Risk Management (SRM) established for the Western Region, in providing comments to draft and / or revised SRM as circulated by DSS, and also assists with the compilation of data required for the SRM;

4.  Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN-Women personnel, offices and assets, and assists in the preparation of security reports, such as the Security Incident Report, the Security Assessments and the Quarterly Incident Report;

5.  Provides support in organizing and conducting training courses on security awareness and preparedness  and providing security orientation to newly assigned staff members. Conducts security briefings, as required;

6. Coordinates with DSS, other agencies, and local authorities road and air missions organized by the Sub-office, as well as coordinates with, advises and provides any support required to UN Women’s sub-office staff to ensure full compliance with SRM;

7.  Provides general administrative assistance to the Security and Operations units:

• Maintains routine and confidential correspondence files/documents;
• Maintains a database on contact details in relation to host country security authorities;
• Arranges appointments, receives visitors, places and screens telephone calls and answers queries with discretion, and takes minutes and/or notes at meetings;
• Provide any support to operations units when required;

8.  Performs other security-related tasks assigned by the Security Specialist, including but not limited to:

• Conducts security evaluations and provides advice on security measures for the residences and project offices in the government facilities in accordance with Security Risk Management (SRM) of UN-Women personnel, as well as on latest trends and threats to personnel safety and security;
• Establishes and maintains warden system and keeps update of information related to UN-Women offices and residences.
• Maintains liaison with commercial companies used for UN-Women security at offices and residences, in order to ensure the effective and efficient use of the guard force;

Summary of key functions:

• Supports UN Women’s sub-office staff in complying with SRM for the Western Region and overall awareness of developments that may impact safety and security of UN Women’s staff and delivery of UN Women-funded projects;
• Assists Security Specialist and DSS in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in the operational area;
• Provides inputs to Security Risk Management (SRM) and ad-hoc SRM for the Western Region, road missions in the operational areas and events (Workshops, Seminars, Meetings) taking places outside of UN premises;
• Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN-Women personnel, offices and assets;
• Organizes and delivers training courses on security awareness and preparedness;
• Assists in maintaining the Security Plan, including updating staff lists, warden list and radio checklist;
• Assists in ensuring all UN personnel are in-housed in security compliant residences in accordance with the country SRM;
• Assists with investigations as directed by the Security Specialist;
• Provision of security mandatory training for non-English speakers;
• Conduct security briefings for new staff;
• Conduct security briefings for mission team leaders;
• Sends and updates security advisories to all national security focal points as guided by DSS in the Western Region and whenever directed by Security Specialist;
• Represents UN Women at the Security Cell meetings;
• Responsible for procurement of security related items including submissions and tracking;
• Provides general administrative assistance to the Security Specialist;

Competencies

Core Values:

• Respect for Diversity
• Integrity
• Professionalism

Core Competencies:

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues
• Accountability
• Creative Problem Solving
• Effective Communication
• Inclusive Collaboration
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Leading by Example

Please visit this link for more information on UN Women’s Core Values and Competencies: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Attachments/Sections/About%20Us/Employment/UN-Women-values-and-competencies-framework-en.pdf

Functional Competencies:

• Planning and Organizing: Demonstrated ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor his/her own work plan with minimum supervision. Ability to work under pressure or in crisis situations. Availability to travel within the area of responsibility.
• Creativity: Ability to actively seek to improve services, offer new and different options to solve problems/meet client needs, and promote and persuade others to consider new ideas
• Teamwork: Proven interpersonal skills and the ability to listen and work in a multi-cultural,
• multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• High school graduate.  University Degree desirable, but it is not a requirement;

Experience:

• Minimum 3-year experience in security, preferably in the military or police context or related field of work. Prior experience with the UN system or an international NGO is desirable but not a requirement. Experience in diplomatic security, protection and intelligence considered an asset;

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English language and Dari/Pashto is required;

Other Skills and Requirements:

• Knowledge of HF and TETRA radio operation;
• Solid computers skills (MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint);
• Possession of a valid driver’s license;
• Ability to travel;

Application:

Note:

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality, and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system (DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM), which focused exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment.

Inclusion Statement:

At UN Women, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. UN Women recruits employ, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, national origin, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, integrity, and organizational need.

If you need any reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please include this information in your application.

UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UN Women, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UN Women’s policies and procedures and the standards of conduct expected of UN Women personnel and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. (Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.)

Background

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security. Placing women’s rights at the center of all its efforts, UN Women leads and coordinates United Nations System efforts to ensure that commitments on gender equality and gender mainstreaming translate into action throughout the world. It provides strong and coherent leadership in support of Member States’ priorities and efforts, building effective partnerships with civil society and other relevant actors. 

Afghanistan is one of the world’s most complex emergencies, and the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Afghan people are grappling with the impact of conflict, poverty, economic decline, and natural disasters. In this context, Afghan women and girls face unique vulnerabilities and require urgent support as gender inequality is interwoven with conflict dynamics and humanitarian needs. It is essential that Afghan women and girls can continue to shape the development of their country, and that their gains are protected. UN Women remains fully committed to supporting Afghan women and girls and to putting them at the center of the global response to the crisis in Afghanistan.  

UN Women has been in Afghanistan for two decades. UN Women’s programming approach is informed by analysis of the political, economic and humanitarian situation, risks to and capacities of partner organizations, and needs of Afghan women and girls. UN Women Afghanistan currently has four key programme priorities: (1) Gender in Humanitarian Action, (2) Ending Violence Against Women, (3) Women’s Economic Empowerment, and (4) Women, Peace and Security. 

The UN Women Afghanistan Country Office Programme Management Support Unit (PMSU) thereby supports the effective management of the UN Women programme portfolio in Afghanistan, including programme planning and development, monitoring, reporting and evaluation, and programme coordination based on agreed annual work plans and partner and donor agreements; knowledge management; and compliance with UN Women programme policies, guidance and procedures. 

Under the direct supervision of the Monitoring and Reporting Specialist, and the overall guidance of the Deputy Country Representative, the Coordination and Knowledge Management Specialist will provide support to the coordination of cross-thematic knowledge management efforts. 

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Facilitate knowledge building and management and coordination of Knowledge Management efforts across thematic areas

• Support the development and implementation of a knowledge management plan/strategy for the UN Women ACO aimed at enhancing knowledge sharing and delivery of planned results;
• Contribute to the development of knowledge products and their internal and external dissemination;
• Collaborate with other UN Women Country/Regional Offices to strengthen existing synergies and promote knowledge sharing across thematic areas at country office, regional, and global levels;
• Keep up to date on latest developments in all relevant thematic areas and takes advantage of all mechanisms for contextualizing and sharing that knowledge;

      2. Capacity building and technical support

• Identify capacity building needs and support partners/country offices through technical assistance, mentoring, training and capacity development initiatives in collaboration with the Programme leads;
• Proactively engages in the organization and delivery of substantive trainings/learning sessions for the partners;
• Advise the country programme on the efficient and effect ways to share learning with partners and staff in the country and with others in the region;
• Identify scale up/optimization opportunities in projects/ programmes and share them with staff and the Head of the Office to inform adaptation of ongoing programmes, development of new component in the projects and/or inform new programmes/activities;

      3. Support partnership building

• Provides coordination support and facilitates discussions and platforms on ACO programme learning;
• Promotes and communicates on new corporate knowledge sharing mechanisms, and actively manages the existing community of practice;
• Collaborates with the UN Women Communication Team to enhance, update, and assist in the external dissemination of the ACO programme results/events;
• Build relations with external professionals and institutions, including donors, UN system agencies and civil society organizations, in the substantive areas of ACO programme in support of knowledge sharing and networking;

       4. Manage data and information systems across the UN Women Afghanistan Country Office

• Develop tools/systems and for the systematic documentation and storage of information and data on programme and operational implementation processes and products;
• Provide technical support to the Country Office teams in the systematic implementation of such tools, to facilitating the capture, storage and dissemination of information on processes and results;
• Update the Country Office’s SharePoint filing system, and work with Programme and Operations Team to keep corresponding platforms up to date;

Key Performance Indicators

• Quality development of knowledge product publications.
• Timely and quality coordination and dissemination of lessons and best practices.
• Quality and timely reporting.
• Strong relations with partners and stakeholders.
• Regular and timely monitoring of activities.

Competencies

Core Values:

• Respect for Diversity
• Integrity
• Professionalism

Core Competencies:

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues
• Accountability
• Creative Problem Solving
• Effective Communication
• Inclusive Collaboration
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Leading by Example

Functional Competencies

• Ability to undertake policy research and prepare policy publications.
• Proven substantive expertise in gender and economic policy.
• Excellent writing and presentational skills.
• Ability to draft knowledge management and dissemination strategies and plans.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively to different audiences.
• Ability to organize and complete multiple tasks by establishing priorities.
• Ability to handle a large volume of work possibly under time constraints.
• Establishes, builds and sustains effective relationships with country offices, partners and donors.

Required Skills and Experience

Education and certification:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in International Development, gender/women's studies or a related field is required.
• A first-level university degree in combination with 5 additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. 

Experience:

• At least 2 years of progressively responsible work experience in the international level, including on policy development, knowledge product creation and dissemination on gender equality and women empowerment.
• Experience in collaborating with different countries, departments, and donors/partners.
• Work Experience with/in the UN system and working knowledge of the principal UN initiatives would be an advantage.
• Experience in collecting, analyzing, and disseminating policy lessons and good practices and drafting reports/publications.
• Experience in actively managing a community of practice, and in Capacity building initiatives related to women empowerment would be an advantage.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Working knowledge of another official UN language is an asset;
• Knowledge of Dari and/or Pashto is an asset.

Application:

Note:

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality, and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system (DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM), which focused exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment.

Inclusion Statement:

At UN Women, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. UN Women recruits employ, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, national origin, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, integrity, and organizational need.

If you need any reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please include this information in your application.

UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UN Women, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UN Women’s policies and procedures and the standards of conduct expected of UN Women personnel and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. (Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.)

Background

UN Women has been working in Afghanistan since 2002 (as UNIFEM until 2010). Afghanistan has emerged as one of the world’s most complex emergencies. The crisis dynamics in the country are multi-layered, and Afghanistan’s people are facing the devastating effects of successive decades of conflict, increasing poverty, economic decline and natural disasters, all of which are amplified by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per the Humanitarian Response Plan 2022, 24.4 million Afghans – more than half of the country’s estimated population of 42 million – are projected to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2022, with a staggering 55 per cent of the population expected to face crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity. 

In this context, Afghan women and girls face unique vulnerabilities as gender inequality is interwoven with conflict dynamics and humanitarian needs. Women’s fundamental rights have been continually threatened since the Taliban takeover and the limited gains made over the past twenty years are now at risk of being erased – and at worst regressed. The contest around gender norms remains at the center of the political, peace and security landscape in Afghanistan, putting women and girls at the frontlines of this crisis. Responding to this crisis, the UN Women Afghanistan Country Office is consolidating its programming under the humanitarian-peace-development nexus, anchored in the Country Office Strategic Note (2018-2022), and continues to deliver on its triple mandate across four thematic areas: 1) Women, Peace and Security and Humanitarian Action; 2) Ending Violence Against Women; 3) Women Economic Empowerment; and 4) Women’s Leadership and Participation. UN Women Afghanistan thereby capitalizes on its five Sub-Offices located in the provinces Balkh, Bamyan, Herat, Kandahar and Nangarhar respectively, and is part of inter-agency Joint UN initiatives, such as the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA)

Under the overall guidance of the Country Representative, and the Deputy Country Representative, and directly reporting to the GiHA Programme Manager will be overall responsible to support and lead planning, implementing, and managing UN Women interventions under the Gender and Humanitarian Action programme.  She/he works in close collaboration with the programme and operations team, other UN Agencies and the Humanitarian Country Team in Afghanistan, UN Women Regional Office and HQ specialists, multi and bi-lateral donors and civil society ensuring successful UN Women programme implementation under the Gender and Humanitarian Action portfolio.  

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Design and develop programme strategies on Gender and Humanitarian Action  

• Design and formulate programme/ project proposals and initiatives;
• Draft inputs to country strategy documents, briefs, policy dialogue and other documents related to Humanitarian response

       2. Manage the implementation and management of the Gender and Humanitarian Action initiatives

• Finalize the annual workplan and budget and manage their implementation;
• Manage the technical implementation of the programme/project; ensure synergies with other teams;
• Manage the submission of implementing partner financial and narrative reports;
• Provide guidance to staff and partners on Results Based Management tools and performance indicators;
• Organize Project Steering Committee, project review and/or evaluation meetings, as needed. 

       3. Provide overall programme advisory support to the Office Management;

• Guide the development of the GiHA programme, and provide technical support to the design and formulation of programme/ project initiatives;
• Review and provide feedback to project/ programme strategies and documents, workplans, case studies and related knowledge products and publications, as needed;
• Provide technical advice on the development of systems, processes and mechanisms to support programme planning, implementation, monitoring and progress reporting;
• Review and evaluate proposals and oversee the preparation of donor proposals and reports;

      4. Provide technical support to the implementation of the Afghanistan Country Office’s GiHA programme

• Review programme annual work plans to assure compliance with UN Women programme goals and results-based indicators;
• Analyze and ensure alignment of project budgets with logical framework matrices and work plans;
• Lead the partner NGO management processes in line with partnership agreement.
• Draft reports on activities, outputs and outcomes; and compile information in preparations of country office donor and UN Women reports;
• Analyze and ensure alignment of project budgets with logical framework matrices and work plans;
• Manage programme quality control and identification of potential challenges;
• Align programme activities with operations team in close liaison with Operations Manager;
• Provide substantive technical and overall programme management support to the implementation and management of the establishment and running of Multi-purpose Women Centers (MPWCs)
• Lead the implementation of programme activities;
• Provide technical assistance and capacity development support to project/programme partners and beneficiaries as needed 

      5. Manage the monitoring and reporting for the GiHA programme

• Recommend and establish programme monitoring standards, criteria, and other indicators for measuring and assessing progress/results;
• Monitor progress of implementation of activities and finances using results-based management tools;
• Lead monitoring and reporting efforts in liaison with UN Women sub-offices and UN Women M&E, operations and programme management teams;
• Review, coordinate and monitor the submission of implementing partner financial and narrative reports.
• Draft reports on monitoring missions, programme results, outputs and outcomes; 
• Coordinate the process of gathering information and preparing progress reports on programme implementation; prepare technical reports;
• Prepare programme team for audits and monitor implementation of audit recommendations;

       6. Support knowledge building efforts and coordination

• Provide substantive technical and overall coordination and information management support for the Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group, Humanitarian Access Group,  and the Afghan Women’s Advisory Group
• Support and coordinate consultations, surveys and other data collection exercises with key stakeholders at the national and sub-national levels under the GiHA portfolio.
• Provide support to GiHA WG co-leads on the monthly meetings organization and follow up and data/information management.
• Support the development, implementation and monitoring of the GiHA WG annual work plan.
• Work closely with key partners including GIHA WG co-leads Identifying and analyze gender data gaps and trends. Regularly review and systematize relevant information from strategies, plans, surveys, assessments, and research products developed by humanitarian partners, contributing to ensure that gender content and SAAD are integrated.
• Support the development of training materials and organization of training and capacity development events for gender focal points, enumerators and member of the HCT Afghan Women Advisory Group.
• Lead and manage the secretariat functions that the GiHA WG provide to the HCT Afghan Women Advisory Group

       7. Manage advocacy, knowledge building and communication efforts

• Develop and review background documents, briefs and presentations related to Gender and Humanitarian Action
• Represent UN Women in meetings and policy dialogues on issues related to Humanitarian as necessary;
• Develop advocacy strategies and oversee their implementation;
• Identify best practices and lessons learned to guide programme improvement and strategy planning;
• Develop knowledge management strategies, products and methodologies on Gender and Humanitarian Action.

• Timely and quality programme design and inputs to Strategic Note
• Timely and quality of programme delivery in line with budget and workplans, and in line with all UN Women operational rules and regulations, including security
• Timely and quality monitoring and evaluation of programmes
• Relations with partners and stakeholders
• Quality reports and timely submission
• Regular communication with other agencies and partners
• Quality of advocacy and communication initiatives

Competencies

Core Values:

• Respect for Diversity
• Integrity
• Professionalism

Core Competencies:

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues
• Accountability
• Creative Problem Solving
• Effective Communication
• Inclusive Collaboration
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Leading by Example

Please visit this link for more information on UN Women’s Core Values and Competencies: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Attachments/Sections/About%20Us/Employment/UN-Women-values-and-competencies-framework-en.pdf

Functional Competencies

• Strong programme formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation skills

• Strong knowledge of Results Based Management
• Ability to synthesize program performance data and produce analytical reports to inform management and strategic decision-making
• Strong knowledge of Gender and Humanitarian response
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to identify and analyze trends, opportunities and threats to fundraising and develop strategies

Required Skills and Experience

Education and certification:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in humanitarian and/or conflict response, disaster relief, logistics, engineering, social sciences, human rights, gender/women's studies, international development, or other relevant field is required
• A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• A project/programme management certification or a certification on Gender in Humanitarian Action would be an added advantage

Experience:

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible work experience at the national or international level in design, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of humanitarian assistance and/or development projects;
• Technical expertise and previous work experience in Gender and Humanitarian response;
• Experience coordinating and liaising with women CSOs, bilateral and multilateral partners and/or donors is an asset;
• Experience working in the UN System or humanitarian cluster organization is an asset;
• Experience in leading/managing a team is an asset.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English and Dari and/Pashto is required;
• Working knowledge of another official UN language 
• Working knowledge of another official UN language is an asset;

Application:

Note:

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality, and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system (DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM), which focused exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment.

Inclusion Statement:

At UN Women, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. UN Women recruits employ, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, national origin, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, integrity, and organizational need.

If you need any reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please include this information in your application.

UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UN Women, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UN Women’s policies and procedures and the standards of conduct expected of UN Women personnel and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. (Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.)

Background

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security.

Afghanistan is one of the world’s most complex emergencies, and the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Afghan people are grappling with the impact of conflict, poverty, economic decline, and natural disasters. In this context, Afghan women and girls face unique vulnerabilities and require urgent support as gender inequality is interwoven with conflict dynamics and humanitarian needs. It is essential that Afghan women and girls can continue to shape the development of their country, and that their gains are protected. UN Women remains fully committed to supporting Afghan women and girls and to putting them at the center of the global response to the crisis in Afghanistan. UN Women has been in Afghanistan for two decades. UN Women’s programming approach is informed by analysis of the political, economic, and humanitarian situation, risks to and capacities of partner organizations, and needs of Afghan women and girls. UN Women Afghanistan currently has four key programme priorities: (1) Gender in Humanitarian Action, (2) Ending Violence Against Women, (3) Women’s Economic Empowerment, and (4) Women, Peace, and Security.

Under the overall guidance of the Deputy Director for Financial Management in Headquarters (HQ) and the daily supervision of the Finance Specialist and the Deputy Country Representative - Operations, the Finance Analyst is responsible for providing assistance to Afghanistan Country Office  to ensure capacity and support; assistance with development projects for UN Women for better business practices and controls as well as automation; ensuring all finance users are compliant with and trained in the accounting standards, financial regulations and rules, policies and procedures; assisting Finance Section HQ and Finance Section at the Regional Office in dedicated support, training, and advice; and acts as the Audit focal point for the Country Office in co-ordination with Finance Section HQ and the Regional Office. 

The Finance Analyst supervises and leads support staff of the Finance Team. The Finance Analyst works in close collaboration with Finance Section HQ, Finance Section at the Regional Office, Programme and Operations colleagues and teams, UNDP staff and Government officials ensuring high performance and efficiency in Finance.

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security.

Afghanistan is one of the world’s most complex emergencies, and the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Afghan people are grappling with the impact of conflict, poverty, economic decline, and natural disasters. In this context, Afghan women and girls face unique vulnerabilities and require urgent support as gender inequality is interwoven with conflict dynamics and humanitarian needs. It is essential that Afghan women and girls can continue to shape the development of their country, and that their gains are protected. UN Women remains fully committed to supporting Afghan women and girls and to putting them at the center of the global response to the crisis in Afghanistan. UN Women has been in Afghanistan for two decades. UN Women’s programming approach is informed by analysis of the political, economic, and humanitarian situation, risks to and capacities of partner organizations, and needs of Afghan women and girls. UN Women Afghanistan currently has four key programme priorities: (1) Gender in Humanitarian Action, (2) Ending Violence Against Women, (3) Women’s Economic Empowerment, and (4) Women, Peace, and Security.

Under the overall guidance of the Deputy Director for Financial Management in Headquarters (HQ) and the daily supervision of the Finance Specialist and the Deputy Country Representative - Operations, the Finance Analyst is responsible for providing assistance to Afghanistan Country Office  to ensure capacity and support; assistance with development projects for UN Women for better business practices and controls as well as automation; ensuring all finance users are compliant with and trained in the accounting standards, financial regulations and rules, policies and procedures; assisting Finance Section HQ and Finance Section at the Regional Office in dedicated support, training, and advice; and acts as the Audit focal point for the Country Office in co-ordination with Finance Section HQ and the Regional Office. 

The Finance Analyst supervises and leads support staff of the Finance Team. The Finance Analyst works in close collaboration with Finance Section HQ, Finance Section at the Regional Office, Programme and Operations colleagues and teams, UNDP staff and Government officials ensuring high performance and efficiency in Finance.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Supervise and lead staff of the Finance Team in  provision of financial and accounting services to the Afghanistan Country Office in accordance with UN Women internal control framework, rules, regulations, policies and procedures

• Ensure payment services are delivered for programme implementation, office management and operations in a   timely manner, with correctness, completeness, and full compliance with UN Women rules, regulations, policies and procedures;
• Ensure timely, correct and complete recording of expenditures incurred by UN Women, implementing partners and responsible parties, ensure proper verification of financial reports submitted by implementing partners and responsible parties, sufficiency of supporting documents and proper filing and retention for audit purpose;
• Ensure proper functioning of budgetary control over payments and all other financial transactions, coordinate for timely resolution of budget errors/issues in close collaboration with programme budget owner and Budget section;
• Recommend and/or implement cost saving and reduction strategies;
• Review and/or verify financial transactions/activities, recording/reporting system and audit reports. Co-ordinate with Finance Section HQ and Regional Office on suggestions for amendments;
• Review financial business processes and use of ERP system to ensure accurate and complete reporting of financial transactions by UN Women staff in accordance with the Internal Control Framework and Delegation of Authority and the timely flow of financial information in UN Women for management, monitoring and oversight purposes;
• Analyze and oversee all financial resources managed by the Country Office and provide high-quality professional advice on financial issues to  management and programme colleagues, as necessary;

      2. Coordinate cash management processes, including liquidity management, recommend impress level, risk assessment, security            for cash assets on site;

• Assist with financial risk assessment reviews for the Country Office, by identifying areas of risk and providing recommendations and action plans for addressing issues raised;
• Coordinate the financial planning, analysis, monitoring and oversight of financial systems in accordance with UN Women rules, regulations, policies and procedures
• Monitor financial systems and reports for unusual activities, transactions, investigate anomalies, arrange for corrections and adjustments to be made in a timely and accurate manner where required;
• Coordinate the Country Office timely completion of  Month-end Instructions Checklist and Year-end Instructions Closure Checklist;
• Control and monitor advances to implementing partners, responsible parties, staff and other personnel, follow up and ensure timely clearance in coordination with programme managers, HR and operations teams;
• Ensure all financial reports are in accordance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and ensure continued compliance.  Monitor the Country Office for compliance with IPSAS accounting standards by reviewing business processes and systems modules resulting in IPSAS compliant general ledger and financial statements;
• Review Implementing Partner advance procedures and test against UN Women policies to ensure compliance.  Investigate and follow up on any anomalies for timely action and resolution, as necessary;
• Review all contractual arrangements with suppliers of goods and services to ensure that the financial terms and conditions of all contracts are being adhered to by the suppliers of goods and services;
• Report to Finance Specialist, Deputy Country Representative - Operations and Deputy Director for Financial Management any case of non-adherence for timely action and recommendations for actions/decisions, as necessary;
• Respond to questions and provide analysis as requested to the Finance Section HQ and the Regional Office;

       3. Coordinate financial reporting in the Afghanistan Country Office in accordance with UN Women rules, regulations, policies and             procedures

• Coordinate timely and accurate automated interim financial reports to governments and donors as required under the donor agreements and other cost-sharing arrangements in close collaboration with  Virtual Global Service Centre Finance Specialists;
• Track and report contributions within the resource mobilization efforts, including pipeline, contracted and overdue and future milestones.  Review contributions receivables and provide information to Finance Specialist, and Deputy Country Representative - Operations for follow up, as necessary;
• Write ad hoc financial Donor and other reports as requested;
• Follow up and/or take prompt action to respond to audit and other findings on financial management;

       4. Coordinate the audit process in accordance with UN Women rules, regulations, policies and procedures

• Coordinate the pre-audit preparations for financial management of the Country Office to be audit ready and complete the pre-audit checklist; 
• Contribute technically to the training in the Country Office as part of the training plan or requirement of pre-audit preparations or as otherwise determined by Finance Specialist, and Deputy Country Representative - Operations or Deputy Director for Financial Management;
• Write responses to internal and external audit inquiries and other findings related to financial management for review/approval by Finance Specialist, and Deputy Country Representative - Operations and Deputy Director for Financial Management and incorporate recommendations in development in policies, procedures and practices;
• Plan and track expenditures and performance audit of financial resources, including extra-budgetary income

        5.Coordinate knowledge management and capacity building

• Coordinate training and capacity building of staff of Finance Team;
• Coordinate orientation and training for non-Finance personnel in proper handling and control of financial transactions as required by UN Women Internal Control Framework, rules, regulations, policies and procedures;
• Coordinate orientation and training for implementing partners and responsible parties in proper handling of financial transactions and preparation for partner audit in accordance with signed partner agreements;
• Coordinate training for service providers to effectively carrying out financial reviews on behalf of UN Women, i.e. verification of partner’s financial reports and risk-based capacity assessment of potential partners;
• Identify, participate in the development and/or recommend enhancement/updates/improvement in ERP financial modules for better business practices and controls in the Country Office;
• Capture, synthesize and/or codify lessons learned and best practices in the Country Office, support financial management and services. Disseminate to Finance Section HQ to share knowledge and build capacity;
• Contribute to the design of learning tools, best practices and innovations in financial business operational practices and management, promote transparency, ease of communications, hosting of financial documents, and all policies and procedures between all UN Women users of the Country Office data;

       6. Financial tasks, approving and certifying function

• Oversee that payment vouchers and journal vouchers processed are matched and completed, transactions are correctly recorded and posted in Atlas; payrolls are duly prepared; travel claims and other entitlements are duly processed;
• Implement timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers, including the vouchers with budget check errors, matching exceptions, unapproved vouchers;
• Provide timely response to HQ and Regional Office requests to resolve financial data issues;
• Perform delegated approval function in ERP system  on a timely basis;
• Review and provide financial clearance of all donor agreements as delegated for compliance with standard agreements on a timely basis;

Competencies

Core Values:

• Respect for Diversity
• Integrity
• Professionalism

Core Competencies:

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues
• Accountability
• Creative Problem Solving
• Effective Communication
• Client-oriented skills
• Inclusive Collaboration
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Leading by Example

Please visit this link for more information on UN Women’s Core Values and Competencies: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Attachments/Sections/About%20Us/Employment/UN-Women-values-and-competencies-framework-en.pdf

Functional Competencies

• Good knowledge and expertise in providing financial services  and financial management;
• Good knowledge of complex financial rules and regulations, preferably UN/UN Women Financial Rules and regulations;
• Good conceptual/strategic skills and success in implementing financial re-engineering, management systems development, policy design, innovation and knowledge product development is an asset;
• Good knowledge and experience in the application of ERP or complex financial systems and modules ;
• Good knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages;
• Ability to provide advice and support;
• Demonstrated knowledge of IPSAS/IFRS;
• Good analytical skills;

Required Skills and Experience

Education and certification:

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Finance/Accounting, or a Professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized institute of accountancy, Chartered Accountant, or Certified Public Accountant is required. 
•  Successful completion of UN Women’s Accounting technical test as part of  the selection process. 

Experience:

• At least 2 years’ experience in an accounting-specific role with in a large international organization preferably in the UN system is required.
• Demonstrated financial experience using an ERP financial system is required.
• Demonstrated experience in providing financial services and advisory support to programmes/projects; Demonstrated experience at developing detailed financial reports for senior management is required.
• Demonstrated financial experience of working in a multi-national context is desirable.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web-based management systems is required. 
• Experience in the use of a modern web-based ERP System, preferably Oracle Cloud, is desirable.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English is required
• Knowledge of the other UN official working language is desirable (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish).