Head of Programme at United Nations Office for Project Services UNOPS in Nairobi, Kenya

    United Nations Office for Project Services UNOPS logo

    Head of Programme

    United Nations Office for Project Services UNOPSNairobi, Kenya

    Posted

    4 days ago

    Apply by

    1 Sept

    Full Time
    On Site
    Senior
    Charity, NGO & Non-Profit
    Product & Project Management

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    Job Description

    The Head of Programme (HoP) reports directly to the Multi-Country or Country Office Director, who provides direction and general supervision. The incumbent is responsible for programme development planning and preparation, and for managing all stages of programming to achieve results in the area/s of responsibility. The HoP is a leadership role which contributes to the development and implementation of strategies to enhance the competencies and position of UNOPS in sustainable project management and services to partners, stakeholders and UN system partners.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Accept responsibility for project portfolio oversight as delegated by the Director and through the role of Project Executive on Project Boards.
    • Establish and execute the programme implementation plans in collaboration with the team and partners, including setting objectives, performance measurements, standards and results expected to ensure timely delivery and client-oriented services.
    • Monitor and supervise the timely and cost-effective implementation of the programme according to UNOPS goals and partner expectations, agreed quality standards, approved budget and full cost recovery, and in line with signed Legal Agreements.
    • Supervise the Programme Management Office (PMO) and its set-up, to ensure that project management governance, policies, processes and methods are complied with and practiced according to the UNOPS standards, best project management practices are promoted, and overall assurance of projects is provided.
    • Ensure proactive programme and project risk identification and assessment, and implementation of adequate mitigation measures.
    • Mentor and assist Project Managers in planning, execution and delivery of allocated projects, ensuring incorporation of best practice project management processes.
    • Facilitate timely and accurate project tracking, analysis of outputs, and reporting.
    • Develop the strategy for the entire Country Office, establish priorities and oversee the implementation of the portfolio, managing the operational risks associated with the Country Office portfolio of engagements.
    • Support the Director in ensuring the financial sustainability of the programme and delivery of desired results, compliance with organisational strategies, rules, regulations and standards of performance.
    • Submit mandated reports and critical issues to the Director and clients, to drive future process improvement and business development planning.
    • Analyze and keep abreast of political and development trends in the geographical area, to identify and propose to the Director areas for UNOPS engagement and support based on priorities in the relevant geography, strategic areas of focus and comparative advantage.
    • Manage and oversee the preparation of programme documents including business cases/strategies, policy briefs, programme plans and risk assessments.
    • Ensure the accurate and timely completion of programme/business recommendations for the review and approval of the Director.

    Required Qualifications

    • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline with 12 years of relevant experience OR Master's degree or equivalent in any discipline with 10 years of relevant experience is required.
    • PRINCE2® Foundation/Practitioner is an asset.

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Product & Project Management

    Minimum Experience

    10 years

    Education Level

    Bachelor’s Degree

    Area of Study

    Any

    Field of Study

    Any

    Languages

    English

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Interested and qualified? Go to United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) on careers.unops.org to apply.

    Show You Can Steer a Multi-Million-Dollar Portfolio

    This is a senior leadership seat at a UN agency, so the hiring panel will probe how you've handled complex, multi-stakeholder programmes under pressure. They want evidence of strategic thinking, risk management, and the ability to mentor project managers to deliver results.

    1. Lead with your portfolio wins: On your CV and in the interview, quantify the size and complexity of programmes you've overseen. Mention budgets, number of projects, and the diversity of donors or partners. For example, say 'I managed a portfolio of 15 projects worth $20M across three countries' rather than 'I have programme management experience.'

    2. Show your PRINCE2 mastery: If you hold PRINCE2 Foundation or Practitioner, highlight it prominently. If not, consider getting certified before applying, as it's listed as an asset. Be ready to discuss how you've applied PRINCE2 principles to real projects, especially in governance and stage boundaries.

    3. Prove your risk management chops: The posting stresses proactive risk identification and mitigation. Prepare a story where you spotted a major risk early and turned it into an opportunity. Show your process for risk assessment and how you communicated risks to senior stakeholders.

    4. Demonstrate your mentoring impact: As a leader, you'll mentor project managers. Give examples of how you've developed your team, improved their delivery, and built a collaborative culture. Mention any training you've led or performance improvements you've driven.

    5. Align with UNOPS values: UNOPS focuses on sustainable development and partnerships. Show your commitment to these values in your application. Talk about how your work has contributed to the SDGs or improved people's lives.

    6. Prepare for competency-based questions: Expect questions like 'Tell me about a time you managed a complex stakeholder relationship' or 'How have you ensured financial sustainability in a programme?' Use the STAR method and keep your answers concise but detailed.

    7. Know the Kenyan context: Since the role is based in Nairobi, be ready to discuss development trends in East Africa. Show that you understand the political, social, and economic landscape and how UNOPS can add value.

    8. Polish your application documents: Your CV and cover letter should be error-free and tailored to this role. Highlight your leadership experience, programme management achievements, and any UN or international development experience. Use action verbs and quantify results.

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    Tags

    programme management
    project management
    PRINCE2
    UNOPS
    leadership