Conflict Resolution Officer, P3 at UN Ombudsman and Mediation Services (UNOMS)

The Conflict Resolution Officer reports to the Regional Ombudsman in Nairobi and works under the general authority of the United Nations Ombudsman.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority the Conflict Resolution Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Assist in providing an impartial, independent and informal conflict resolution mechanism for addressing the employment-related concerns of staff members and related personnel of the Secretariat.
• Assist in conducting mediations, facilitated dialogues and other conflict resolution processes, including mediations referred by the UN Dispute Tribunal (UNDT).
• Explore with staff members and related personnel their options and the different avenues open to them, taking into account the rights and obligations existing between the Organization and staff members or related personnel when required.
• Participate in informal and independent fact-finding as required on issues brought to the attention of the Regional Ombudsman.
• Assist in identifying and analyzing policies, procedures and practices that cause tension or conflict and participate in analyzing trends.
• Participate in drafting periodic activity reports which provide statistical overview, analysis of the issues and trends observed for further systemic analysis.
• Offer information to staff members and related personnel about the functions and mandate of the Ombudsman within the framework of the overall information and communication plan.
• Travel to conduct outreach and provide conflict resolutions as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Professionalism: Ability to provide effective advice on a broad range of work related concerns. Ability to provide advice in a range of conflict resolution and mediation issues; knowledge of UN policies, rules and regulations; knowledge of third party neutral conflict resolution and mediation principles; shows respect and empathy for individuals; 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; Take responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
• Client Orientation: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be "clients" and seeks to see things from clients' point of view; establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect; identifies clients' needs and matches them to appropriate solutions; monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients' environment to keep informed and anticipate problems; keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects; meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client.
• 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.

Education

• Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in conflict resolution, law, administration, management, human resources, social sciences, or related area 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.

Work Experience

• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in workplace conflict resolution, law, public administration, human resources or related area is required.
• Experience working in an international setting is desirable.
• Experience in alternative conflict resolution is desirable.