Consultancy for Modernization of UNRWA Governance

The consultant will be expected to deliver the following outputs within the agreed timeframe: 1. Inception Report (within two weeks of contract commencement): • Outline the methodology, work plan, and timeline for the consultancy. • Identify key stakeholders to be engaged. 2. Comparative Analysis Report (by end of first month): • A comprehensive review and mapping of governance and union models across the UN System, • Recommendations on potential adjustments to governance and unions models for UNRWA. • Identification of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches applicable to UNRWA. 3. Gap Analysis and Recommendations Report (by end of second month): • Detailed analysis of gaps, risks, and opportunities in UNRWA's current governance arrangements. • Recommendations on potential adjustments to governance and unions models for UNRWA, including clear, actionable recommendations for modernizing UNRWA's governance structures and improving staff union statute(s), aligned with UN system standards and multilateral best practices. 4. Final Report and Presentation (by end of third month): • A presentation to IST and key stakeholders summarizing recommendations and next steps for implementation. • A consolidated report incorporating all findings, proposed alternatives for governance models and recommendations for an updated staff union statutes that is aligned with UN values, standards and best practices. - Recommendations should include guidance on process to be followed by UNRWA in the development of a final proposal. Performance Indicators • Timely submission of high-quality deliverables per the agreed upon schedule. • Demonstrated depth of analysis and relevance of recommendations to the Agency's context. • Response to feedback from IST on the clarity, feasibility, and practicality of proposed solutions. Ownership and Confidentiality All deliverables are the sole proprietary property of UNRWA. The consultant must adhere to confidentiality agreements and ensure sensitive information is handled with discretion.

HQ Amman, remote reporting is also possible.

Consultant to start as soon as possible for a duration of 3 months.

Within delegated authority, the Consultant will be responsible for the following: • Conduct in-depth desk review of governance models and mechanisms as well as staff unions models of multilateral organizations, drawing, inter alia, from other relevant UN bodies and/or international organizations, and • Analyse gaps, risks, opportunities in current UNRWA governance arrangements and union model, and • Propose alternatives in UNRWA governance models and mechanisms, and propose improvements to staff union statutes, based on standards and best practices in the UN system and other similar multilateral organizations.

- Advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent degree) in public administration, international relations, law, social or political sciences or related areas as required. A first level university degree in the above specializations, in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. - A minimum of seven years of experience in political analysis, peace and security, conflict prevention, diplomacy, mediation, humanitarian or human rights work or related fields is required. - Expertise in organizational models and change, governance typologies and governance reform, including staff unions in the context of international organizations is required. - Familiarity with the UN system, Middle East culture and politics including issues related to Palestine refugees is desirable. - Experience in managing projects and/or special initiatives that require engagement with a diverse set of stakeholders is desirable.

For the post advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Organizational Setting and Reporting: The position is located in UNRWA's Executive Office. The post reports substantively to the Team Leader of the Implementation Support Team and administratively to the Deputy Chief of Staff. Level: Consultant at P4 level. Competencies: Professionalism: Knowledge of the substantive political role of the UN in general and of UN interventions on specific areas/themes, e.g. in the Middle East. Shows ability to produce reports and papers on substantive issues and to coordinate, review and edit the work of others. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence 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. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. 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 as appropriate; Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for Unit's shortcomings. United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity.

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.