Administrative Specialist (Field Support & Construction), P-3, Fixed Term Position, Division of

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.

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In the context of UNICEF’s ongoing organizational transformation under the Future-Focused Initiative (FFI), the consolidation of administrative support functions related to premises management and construction into a single position (Field Support and Construction) is essential to advancing organizational efficiency, accountability, and cost optimization objectives. As UNICEF continues implementing the FFI - including the relocation of functions and staff to lower-cost duty stations, the establishment of new global offices, and the closure or restructuring of existing offices - DFAM must continuously adapt its operational and administrative support framework to respond to evolving global business and premises management needs.

This position will play a critical strategic role in supporting DFAM’s global premises management framework by ensuring effective office space planning, availability, and optimization across UNICEF operations. The role will provide strategic and technical support in premises management to promote operational efficiency and cost reduction through space optimization, common premises initiatives, office renovations, and construction projects. In addition, the position will support organizational compliance with premises management policies and procedures, including IPSAS 43 requirements related to lease accounting and asset management.

The position will also contribute to maintaining safe, accessible, sustainable, and functional working environments that support staff well-being and operational continuity across UNICEF offices globally. By consolidating these responsibilities into a single strategic function (Field Support and Construction), DFAM will strengthen oversight, improve coordination and accountability, and enhance the organization’s capacity to deliver efficient, standardized, and cost-effective administrative support services across its global operations.

The Administrative Specialist (Field Support & Construction) provides integrated administrative and technical support to field and regional offices. The role encompasses premises leasing, space utilization, property and construction management, as well as common premises projects.

The position ensures compliance with UNICEF policies on premises management, UN standards for space utilization, and financial accountability requirements (IPSAS 43) related to lease premises. It also supports the delivery of safe, cost-effective, and inclusive workplaces across all UNICEF offices.

• Support field offices with administrative services, including guidance on premises management, grants, rental advances, and compensation claims.
• Provide interpretation and guidance on administrative policies and procedures.
• Review draft legal agreements related to premises to ensure conformity with UN standard terms. Provide advice to field offices on negotiating the terms and conditions of premises agreements and recommend liaison with the Senior Legal Advisor when necessary.
• Prepare reports, briefing notes, and audit responses for senior management.

• Ensure premises and office equipment data is up to date in VISION, ensuring coordination with Accounts Section, as required. Provides technical guidance to field offices on…