SVN 0155 2026 - SENIOR PROJECT ASSOCIATE – (NORTH-EASTERN REGION PROJECTS, COLOMBIA)

Job Description

Introducción

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration and works closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It does so by providing services and advice to governments and migrants.

IOM is committed to fostering a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture on the IOM Workplace Culture webpage.

Applications are welcome from both internal and external candidates. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those from qualified and eligible second-tier candidates during the selection process. For additional information, please refer to the internal guidance and the IOM Candidate Tier System and Internal-Equivalent Candidates.

Organizational Context and Scope

Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Mission (CoM) and direct supervision of the Head of Programmes; and, in close coordination with the Heads of Units and the Resources Management Officer, the Senior Project Associate – (North-Eastern Region Projects, Colombia) will be responsible for the following duties:

Responsibilities

1. Assist in coordinating  and  monitoring the implementation of IOM projects in the North-Eastern region of Colombia, ensuring effective programme delivery, operational coordination, compliance with organizational procedures, and the achievement of project objectives. Serve as the focal point for programme implementation and field-level coordination within the area of responsibility.

2. Independently lead and coordinate the implementation of the project. Monitor implementation of the activities to ensure work is proceeding according to established plans; analyse implementation difficulties and make recommendations for adjusting implementation modalities and work plans to best reflect changing environment on the field. 

3. Regularly research, follow-up, compile, analyse and present information/data on national, regional and international developments, reports, legislation and other relevant documentation, highlighting noteworthy issues for the consideration of appropriate parties.

4. Monitor budget expenditures by verifying availability of funds and maintaining a proper record of approved project budgets and their revisions.

5. Coordinate and monitor the financial, administrative and technical aspects of the project in line with IOM policies and donor requirements.

6. Plan, coordinate and conduct capacity building workshops for relevant internal and external parties.  

7.  Participate in inter-agency coordination mechanisms, technical working groups, government-led platforms, and other relevant forums at the regional and local levels as assigned.  facilitate effective engagement with stakeholders and promote  IOM’s mandate, priorities, and strategic objectives in close coordination with the supervisor.Participate in meetings and conferences. Maintain effective liaison and coordination with local authorities, partners, United Nation (UN) agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations, donors and other stakeholders relevant to the project. 

8. Coordinate the preparation of correspondence, briefing notes, presentations, narrative and financial reports. Ensure status reports are prepared and submitted in a timely manner. 

9. Identify and document good practices and lessons learned and contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), policies and concept papers to support the development of new projects.

10. Supervise and provide guidance and training to reporting staff. 

11. Perform such other relevant duties as maybe assigned..

Qualifications

Required Qualifications and Experience

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or a related field from an accredited academic institution with five years of relevant professional experience; or,

• High School diploma with seven years of relevant professional experience.

Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organisations; 

• Experience in working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups; and,

• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organisations, non-government or government institutions/organisation in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.

• Experience in coordinating and supporting the implementation of operational and programme activities, preferably within a field or sub-office environment; 

• Experience in supervising and coordinating staff and providing day-to-day guidance to support the effective delivery of activities; 

• Experience in supporting the implementation and monitoring of projects, including operational, administrative and financial aspects; 

• Experience in field operations, preferably in contexts related to migration, displacement, emergency response, community stabilization, livelihoods, reintegration, or rural development; 

• Experience in coordinating multiple operational activities simultaneously and ensuring their timely implementation in accordance with established procedures and project requirements; 

• Experience in supporting project reporting, work planning, budget monitoring and tracking of programme activities; 

• Experience working with vulnerable populations and/or in complex operational environments is an advantage; 

SKILLS

• Demonstrated knowledge of IOM administrative, financial and operational procedures and practices; 

• Good knowledge of migration-related programmes and activities implemented by the Organization; 

• Knowledge of the IOM project management cycle and ability to support the monitoring and implementation of programme activities; 

• Ability to analyse operational information, identify issues and propose timely solutions to ensure the effective delivery of activities; 

• Ability to coordinate and oversee a broad range of administrative and operational activities in support of the Sub-Office's programme implementation; 

• Good supervisory, coordination and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize competing tasks and meet deadlines; 

• Sound judgment and ability to make decisions within delegated authority and established procedures; 

• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal and external stakeholders; 

• Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with colleagues from varied cultural and professional backgrounds; 

• High level of professionalism, flexibility and ability to work effectively under pressure; 

• Proficiency in standard computer applications, including spreadsheet and database applications; 

• Familiarity with IOM corporate systems and tools relevant to operational and administrative functions, including MiMOSA and PRIMA, is an advantage.

Languages

All IOM staff members, regardless of category, are required to be proficient in at least one of IOM’s official languages: English, French, or Spanish.

For this position:

Required

• For this position, fluency in English and Spanish is required (oral and written).

Proficiency in the required language(s) will be specifically assessed during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral evaluations.

Required Competencies

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.

Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these five values:

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.

• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.

• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.

• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.

• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators Level 1

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.

• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.

• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.

• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.

• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.

MANAGERIAL COMPETENCIES - Behavioural indicators – ​Choose a level.​ 
 

• Leadership: Provides a clear sense of direction, leads by example and demonstrates the ability to carry out the Organization’s vision. Assists others to realize and develop their leadership and professional potential. 

• Empowering others: Creates an enabling environment where staff can contribute their best and develop their potential. 

• Building Trust: Promotes shared values and creates an atmosphere of trust and honesty. 

• Strategic thinking and vision: Works strategically to realize the Organization’s goals and communicates a clear strategic direction. 

• Humility: Leads with humility and shows openness to acknowledging own shortcomings

Notes

Please refer to this link for guidance on IOM employment categories

Any offer made to the selected candidate in relation to this vacancy is subject to funding confirmation.

This selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment to a similar position for a period of 24 months.

Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, verification of residency or visa requirements, accreditation, and security clearances.

IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination on the grounds of gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic origin, or disability.

IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training, or any other fee). IOM does not request any information related to applicants’ bank accounts.

IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment System: . For internal candidates, please refer to the relevant internal application procedures. This online recruitment platform also allows candidates to track the status of their application.

Late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For further information on career opportunities and other vacancies, please visit: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies.

Important: Please note that this offer is subject to the availability of funds. Once the project agreement is signed, implementation will need to commence immediately.

Required Skills

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