Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the General Services Section/Administration/Registry, in the Arusha, Tanzania, branch of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) under the supervision of the General Services Officer and overall guidance of the branch Administrative Officer.

Responsibilities

The Associate Contracts Officer (ACO) is responsible for contract management and contract compliance of all contracts managed by the Arusha branch General Services Section (GSS), and provides advice and support to other self-accounting units as required. This includes review of scope of services and specifications developed by requisitioners; coordination with the Procurement Section during bidding and contract performance stages; technical evaluation of bids received by Procurement Section; contract compliance including systems for conformance to contract obligations and responsibilities, progress review, monitoring, quality assurances, vendor coordination and reviews, conflict avoidance and resolution, and invoicing; planning and allocation of resources, budgeting along with performance appraisal and forecasting, laying down administrative procedures for operation in accordance with UN practices. Supervising the operation of all leases of IRMCT leased properties, plant and furnishings located in all buildings occupied by the IRMCT Arusha branch, including the Kigali field office. The ACO also provides guidance to the Facility Management Unit within GSS for the management of maintenance services and supply contracts for utilities with the mains and back-up electrical systems, life safety systems, security access systems, vertical transport, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and grounds as well as alterations and improvements to the technical systems, services and accommodation. The ACO further assists staff in all units in GSS in the management of the various service and supply contracts, and assists in planning and allocation or resources. Serves as a focal point for contractual matters within GSS and as GSS officer in charge as required.

Competencies

• Professionalism –Knowledge of contract management and contract compliance. Knowledge of United Nations procurement rules and regulations. Knowledge of facility management. 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. 
  
• 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 the audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
  
• Planning and Organising – 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 in law, business administration, procurement, architecture, engineering, facilities management or related area. A first level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

Work Experience

Minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in contracts management and contract compliance. Experience working in the United Nations system may be an advantage. Experience with procurement and/or general services or facility management may be an advantage. Transactional experience with an enterprise resource management system using the SAP platform, such as Umoja, may be an advantage.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the Tribunal. Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of French and/or Kiswahili might be an advantage.

Assessment

There may be a technical test followed by a competency-based interview.

Special Notice

The appointment is limited to IRMCT. Appointment of the successful candidate on this position will be limited to the initial funding of the post. Extension of the appointment is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or the availability of funds. As the international tribunals are not integrated in the Secretariat, UN Staff Members serve on assignment or secondment from their parent department/office if selected. Appointments of staff members in the United Nations are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General. Staff Members are expected to move periodically to new functions in accordance with established rules and procedures, and may in this context be reassigned by the Secretary-General throughout the Organization based on the changing needs and mandates.