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General Information

Position Title
Support Services Manager
Job Category
Support Services
Duty Station(s)
Juba
Seniority Level
Mid Level
ICS Level
ICS 10
Contract Type
Staff - IP - FTA
Contract Level
IP P-3
Posting Start Date
04-Jun-2026
Posting End Date
19-Jun-2026
Duration
one year (with possibility of extension, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance)

Job Highlight

Provide efficient and reliable support services as Support Services Manager, ensuring seamless delivery of logistics, administration, finance, HR, and procurement functions to enable safe, compliant, and effective mine action and humanitarian operations in challenging environments.

About the Region

The UNOPS Global Portfolios Office (GPO) brings together diverse expertise to help partners deliver impact worldwide. With hubs in New York, Geneva, and Vienna, and expert teams operating globally, GPO leads multi-regional initiatives that advance sustainable development, climate action, and peacebuilding - including in some of the world’s most challenging environments. By leveraging our collective expertise and global networks, GPO supports UNOPS’ strategic priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals across more than 130 countries. We work closely with major global partners - including governments, international financial institutions, and UN agencies - to deliver a wide range of services, such as project management, fund management, hosting services, and HR support.

About the Country/Multi-Country Office

The New York Portfolios Office (NYPO) manages UNOPS' New York-based portfolios, delivering project and programme management, procurement, HR, and financial services to global partners, from the UN Secretariat to Member States. NYPO strategically positions UNOPS with these partners, fostering collaboration to achieve growth and leveraging expertise in global portfolio design and implementation. We support the broader SDGs and 2030 Agenda, primarily assisting the UN Secretariat and other New York-based UN entities with a global reach. NYPO encompasses the Peace and Security Cluster (PSC), focusing on explosive threat management, and the Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC), providing diverse operational support to the UN system in New York.

Job Specific Context

Background Information - UNOPS Peace and Security Cluster

For over 20 years, UNOPS Peace and Security Cluster (PSC) has provided portfolio and project management services in the area of mine action and explosive hazards, that are reinforced by comprehensive management and oversight controls. 

 

Under this umbrella, the Cluster is responsible for the implementation of projects that, through the engagement of inputs such as personnel, third parties, assets and other resources, deliver activities that produce substantive mine action outputs. 


Project management is conducted in line with UNOPS Project Management Manual (PMM), which incorporates best practices in the field, as well with a view to quality and cross-cutting initiatives such as workforce and talent management; knowledge and information management; health, safety, social and environmental management; diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); gender equality and social inclusion (GESI); and the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (PSEAH).  This comprehensive delivery platform is implemented in accordance with partner requirements and in line with UNOPS rules and regulations through the leadership of the Cluster Director, who has the overall authority and accountability for the performance of PSC on behalf of its clients. 

PSC operates within UNOPS’ broader commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), and the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (PSEAH. Within the mine action context, these commitments are operationalised through the PSC GEDSI Strategy 2026-2029 which sets expectations for inclusive recruitment, workforce representation, and the integration of GESI and PSEAH into programme delivery and implementing partner oversight. All PSC roles, including this position, are expected to contribute actively to these commitments.


Background Information - (Programme)


The Role 


The Support Services Manager (SSM) is a critical role in the South Sudan Programme, reporting to the Head of Project Unit, who provides general guidance and vision. 


The SSM is responsible for providing an efficient and integrated support service for the UNOPS Programme, dealing on a daily basis with a diverse team of national and international professionals.


This recruitment process may also be used to fill other vacancies, in different duty stations.

Role Purpose

To provide integrated leadership and coordination of programme support services, ensuring effective management of HR, procurement, finance, administration, ICT, and compliance functions in line with UNOPS rules and standards, while enabling efficient delivery of programme objectives in a complex operational environment.

Functions / Key Results Expected

  • Operational leadership, advisory and technical support
  • Project planning and coordination support
  • Procurement & grant management
  • Financial and compliance management
  • Human resource management
  • Administration and Information Technology
  • Knowledge management and innovation


The effective and successful achievement of results by the Support Services Manager for the Office directly impact on the development and performance of the projects, visibility and image of the UNOPS as an effective service provider in project services and management and consequently strengthen its competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services in the country served.

Operational Leadership, advisory and technical support

  • Monitor and supervise teams as well as all aspects of operations (Finance, HR, Procurement, Health, Safety, Security and Environmental (HSSE), Information Technology(ICT) and Administration) to ensure achievement of results, in compliance UNOPS rules, regulations, policies, and standards of accountability, ethics and integrity.
  • Monitor support services to ensure continuously improving client service and satisfaction, including escalating unresolved issues to the appropriate Headquarters Practice Groups.
  • Provide technical inputs and operational advice on innovative approaches to project financing, including risk assessment and mitigation.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to identify the need, determine cost and plan Programme support services, including procurement, finance, human resources and administrative services.  
  • Assist the Programme Head of Project Unit in setting goals, targets and performance standards for projects, and facilitate the implementation of tools for monitoring, evaluation and auditing
  • At the request of the Programme Head of Project Unit, participate in UN forum discussions to support UNOPS position, interests and priorities are fully considered, including on DEI, GESI and PSEAH matters where relevant. 
  • Ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), and PSEAH commitments are integrated into Programme strategies, quarterly business reviews, and operational planning, in line with the UNOPS corporate strategies, accountability/action plans and PSC GEDSI Strategy 2026-2029.
  • Foster a respectful workplace culture and zero tolerance for discrimination, abuse of authority, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse. Demonstrate visible and accountable leadership on PSEAH, ensuring prevention and response mechanisms are embedded in programme management and implementing partner oversight structures.  Ensure accountability for actions and perform duties in accordance with protection mechanisms and action plans, as expected by UNOPS policies, standards and commitments.

Project planning and coordination support 

  • Provide assistance and support to programme and project budget preparation, revisions and work planning, in close collaboration with the Project & Budget Officer and the Programme Unit
  • Provide input into project engagement and acceptance documents including assisting with contract negotiations.
  • Assist in  setting performance standards for projects and recommend tools for monitoring, evaluation and auditing. 
  • Monitor project financial projections, escalate critical issues to the Programme Head of Project Unit and/or other stakeholders for action.
  • Provide inputs on programme and project cost sharing, deployment of funds and closure.
  • Constantly monitor and analyze the operating environment to identify potential risks and take action/refer critical issues for intervention to ensure delivery of results. 
  • Closely liaise with the other programme Offices (within the Programme) in order to troubleshoot any issues that might cause interruption in the support services management.

Procurement & Grant Management

  • Manage South Sudan Programme procurement and Grant Issuance processes, providing advice to Support Services team members as needed and serving as Chair of procurement processes as assigned to ensure results contribute to programme objectives
  • Review contractual arrangements and legal commitments/risks for appropriate action.
  • Assist the Support Unit on their review, administration  and issuance of contracts, agreements/amendments with institutions and UN agencies. 
  • Ensure that Programme procurement processes promote equitable access for diverse suppliers, including women-owned and locally-rooted businesses, in line with UNOPS corporate commitments. Ensure that RFPs and procurement documents use inclusive language and that UNOPS DEI, GESI and PSEAH standards are communicated to suppliers and implementing partners.


Financial and compliance management

  • Manage finance activities and ensure compliance with the UNOPS/Financial Rules & Regulations and Finance procedures
  • Manage cash, review financial management practices, advise, and help the team to improve its monitoring tools.
  • Support the development of GLJEs as needed for financial reconciliation of budget and expenditures 
  • Act as a focal point for any internal/external audit exercise. 

Human resource management

  • Support the development and implementation of the recruitment plan of the Programme, ensuring DEI considerations (gender parity, Global South representation etc) are embedded from the outset of each recruitment process and documented in quarterly reporting.
  • Manage human resource services/processes including recruitment, salary administration and compensation, performance review, training and development, ensuring compliance with UNOPS human resource rules, regulations, procedures and standards of performance. Ensure that: all vacancy announcements include an equal opportunities statement and use inclusive, gender-neutral language; recruitment panels are diverse; shortlists and selection decisions comply with UNOPS Special Measures for DEI; hiring managers actively seek to create diverse teams in terms of gender, geography, and other dimensions of diversity; and DEI recruitment metrics are tracked and reported to programme leadership on a quarterly basis.
  • Support capacity building of the existing Support Unit personnel to effectively and efficiently run recruitments for the programme team, ensuring that capacity building plans include inclusive leadership training and that DEI objectives are embedded in PER/PRAs for all personnel within the Support Unit.
  • Contribute to a safe, inclusive, and enabling work environment that upholds dignity and respect for all personnel regardless of gender identity, nationality, background, ability, or age. Uphold the highest standards of conduct and take decisive action to address behaviors that undermine inclusion, equity, or psychological safety. Ensure that all personnel are aware of and have equitable access to reporting channels and support mechanisms. 
  • Manage staff issues within the Programme  as required by the project’s demands, including recruitment, training, staff performance review, ensuring that performance review processes are applied equitably across all personnel regardless of gender, nationality, or background, and that barriers to full participation for underrepresented team members are proactively identified and addressed.


Administration and Information Technology (ICT)

  • Manage the timely and efficient delivery of all administrative services, (e.g. centralized project admin, premises and asset management, organizational and personnel security, travel and IT).
  • Full compliance of operations of the Country with UNOPS rules, regulations and policies, on administrative matters and supervision of the administrative team.
  • Maintenance of a secure, reliable infrastructure environment for ICT and adequate planning for disasters and recoveries, supervision of the ICT Associate.
  • In close collaboration with HQ and HoSS for the Multi Country Office, support the maintenance of a secure and reliable ICT environment, including adequate plans for disaster recovery.
  • Manage the acquisition, maintenance, inventory, recording, verification and protection of project and administrative facilities/assets, including IT infrastructure, equipment and servers.
  • Identify opportunities for leveraging the use of IT to enhance business operations and efficiency and to facilitate knowledge management, and information sharing.

Knowledge management and innovation 

  • Contribute to introducing best practice approaches in the Programme Support Services.
  • Share of best practices and lessons learned for corporate development planning and knowledge building including lessons related to PSEAH, DEI, GESI, and personnel wellbeing in hardship duty station contexts.
  • At the request of the Head of Project Unit and in collaboration with the team, assist in planning, implementing and organizing strategic capacity building of project personnel, clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Communication, Data Analysis, Project Coordination, Reporting & Analysis, Decision Making
Strategic Perspective
Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organisation. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organisation.
Respect
Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organisational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
Collaboration
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.
Partnerships
Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).
Excellence
Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.
Adaptability
Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.
Decision-making
Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.
Communication
Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education Requirements

Required


Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) with 5 years of relevant experience; or

First Level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) with 7 years of relevant experience



Experience Requirements

Required


  • Relevant experience is experience working in managerial leadership of personnel and operational systems across at least 2 of the following functions: procurement, finance, logistics/asset management, HR, or related areas.
  • Recent 3 years of experience in managing staff and operational systems is required.
  • Willingness to work in hardship duty stations and to travel to postcrisis locations is required.

Desired

  • Experience in UN system organizations, preferably in a country/ field office context in the Global South,is desirable.
  • Experience dealing with UN regulations, rules ,and policies in the areas of contracting, procurement ,and human resources is desirable. 
  • Experience integrating DEI, GESI, and PSEAH/safeguarding standards into human resource management, procurement, or implementing partner oversight is desirable.

Language Requirements

LanguageProficiency LevelRequirement
EnglishFluentRequired

Additional Information

  • UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes. 
  • UNOPS will at no stage of the recruitment process request candidates to make payments of any kind.
  • Applications to vacancies must be received before midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of the announcement. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. 
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to proceed to the next stage of the selection process, which may include various assessments. 
  • UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of a wide range of nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. We strive to sustain and strengthen this diversity, fostering an inclusive working environment where all personnel are treated with respect and have equal access to opportunities.
  • UNOPS evaluates all applications based on the skills, qualifications and experience outlined in the vacancy announcement. We are committed to a fair and transparent selection process and welcome diverse perspectives, including those of women, indigenous and racialized communities, individuals of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities.
  • We are committed to enabling all candidates to perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require support or reasonable accommodation to complete any assessment, please inform our human resources team upon receiving your invitation.
  • UNOPS has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive conduct, including discrimination, abuse of authority, and harassment. To uphold these standards, background checks are conducted for all final candidates to help ensure that individuals with a history of such conduct are not hired. By applying for a position with UNOPS, candidates acknowledge and consent to these verification processes.
 
Terms and Conditions
 
  • For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post. 
  • For retainer contracts, you must complete a few mandatory courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. Refreshers or new mandatory courses may be required during your contract. Please note that you will not receive any compensation for taking courses and refreshers. For more information on a retainer contract here. 
  • For more details about the contract types, please click here.
  • All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda. 
  • It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.