Chief Area Office

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES In accordance with Agency policy and procedures, the incumbent: (A) Represents the Agency at the area level and liaises with Host government authorities, refugee community representatives and humanitarian organizations on the general application of Agency policies and programmes as well as other issues of interest to the Agency in particular the security situation likely to affect UNRWA operations, or incidents affecting the humanitarian situation of Palestine refugees; (B) Leading an area management team and in close collaboration with responsible managers in the Field Office, coordinates the work of the Area Programme Officers; plans, directs and controls administrative, finance, supply, distribution, transport, personnel, building maintenance and camp service function in his/her Area to ensure that the Agency’s operations and programmes address the needs of refugees within the context of the local political, social and security situations, and reports on their effectiveness and efficiency accordingly to supervisor; assists in and advises on the integration of programmes and support service activities; where necessary, takes corrective measures within his/her authority as outlined by DUO/DUA; (C) Is responsible for effective communication in his/her Area; disseminates information collected through regular meetings with relevant interlocutors to his/her team members, the Front Office, Heads of Programme and Support Departments; (D) Monitors potential situation in his/her area, identifies risks and issues, brings together key staff to address problems and advises the Field Director accordingly. In situations of acute emergencies and critical incidents, as declared by Field Director, is responsible for the Agency’s emergency response and has the authority over all staff and assets in the designated Area; coordinates such matters with responsible staff at Field Office level; (E) Is accountable for control and disbursement of funds allotted to the Area Office by Expending Officers; (F) Ensures that all programme activities include cross-cutting themes such as protection, gender equality and PCM initiatives; (G) Where applicable, ensures protection issues affecting Palestine refugees in the area of responsibility are brought to the attention of the Field Protection Coordinator and are adequately addressed by Programmes and/or other relevant Departments; (H) Is responsible for training of Agency staff assigned to his/her Area with particular emphasis on training Area staff in their area of expertise and broader issues including cross-cutting themes; (I) Performs such other duties as may be assigned.