Thursday's List of Job Vacancies

1.Regional Coordinator - SAKSS

Closing date: 20/7/2007
Date of issuance: 19/6/2007
Organisational unit: SAKSS
Duty station ILRI Campus in Nairobi, Kenya, with frequent travel in COMESA region
Vacancy announcement no:RC/SAKSS/T1/06/2007

Responsibilities
The position: ILRI seeks to recruit a scientist to lead a small team of professionals working on the Regional Strategic Analysis and Knowledge Support System (ReSAKSS) program for Eastern and Central Africa (ECA), serving the COMESA region. The objective of ReSAKSS-ECA program is to provide data, information, knowledge and analysis to stakeholders in order to improve the formulation, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation of agricultural and rural development strategies in COMESA. The successful candidate will work with the ReSAKSS node based at ILRI-Nairobi which is set up to serve the COMESA region in the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). Specifically, the job will require the regional coordinator to:
• Provide leadership and coordination of analytical work based on regional priorities, in partnership with regional stakeholders, including ASARECA, East African Community, international, regional and national researchers, and development partners
• Provide leadership and support the development of a demand-driven knowledge management system, supported by a monitoring and evalution system and an appropriate web-based platform to share data and analysis, in collaboration with ReSAKSS nodes in Southern and West Africa
• Develop opportunities for strengthening analytical capacity in the region through collaborative research and analysis, and targeted training of researchers from national research institutes or universities
• Develop and maintain networks and partnerships with development partners, ReSAKSS nodes, agricultural research for development (AR4D) organizations at national, regional and international levels
• Lead the development of proposals for resource mobilization and funding, in collaboration with the supervisor at ILRI.

Core competencies
• In-depth understanding of policy processes and willingness to engage with policy makers and other stakeholders at regional and national levels
• Proven ability to coordinate a regional program involving different stakeholders at regional and national levels
• Familiarity with and deep understanding of agricultural and rural development issues in Africa, particularly in the COMESA region
• Proven analytical and research skills through a track record of scientific publications, as well as strong oral and written communication skills
• Strong people management skills, including ability to provide leadership in multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams

Education
• A Ph.D. in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Political Science or any other related field
Work experience
At least five years post-Ph.D. working experience in research or project management related to development in developing countries, preferably in Africa.
Languages
• Strong English language skills, both written and spoken, with a demonstrated record of publications in professional outlets. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage.
Other desirable skills
• A willingness to travel frequently within and outside the COMESA region
• Proven ability to mobilize resources

Terms of appointment
Initial appointment is for three years with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon individual performance and the availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive remuneration package paid in US dollars.
Applications
Applications: Applicants should send a cover letter indicating earliest availability, curriculum vitae and the names and addresses (including telephone, fax and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Human Resources Office, ILRI, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi Kenya; Telephone 254-20-4223000; Fax 254-20-4223001; email: recruit-ilri@cgiar.org by 20th July 2007. The name and reference number of the position for which the application is made should be clearly marked on the envelope mailed, or on the fax or email applications. To find more about ILRI and this position visit the ILRI website http://www.ilri.org ILRI is an equal opportunity employer and is keen to further diversify its staff in terms of both gender and nationality. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply.

2.Research Technician

Closing date 6/7/2007
Date of issuance 19/6/2007
Organisational unit Theme 4 - Biotechnology
Duty station Nairobi Kenya
Vacancy announcement no. RT/T4/06/2007



Responsibilities
ILRI seeks to recruit a Research Technician to join the Capacity Building for Sustainable use of Animal Genetic Resources in developing countries project within the Biotechnology Theme. The project has produced the Animal Genetics Training Resource (AGTR), a multi-media interactive resource which can be viewed at: http://agtr.ilri.cgiar.org.
Specific duties will include:
• To search, obtain and verify new and updated breed information from various sources, including the internet, especially those from the developing countries
• To provide support in managing databases and follow-up documentation, contact details, internet networking arrangements between various participants from the regions covered by the ILRI-SLU project.
• To follow-up and monitor usage and feedback on Animal Genetic Training Resources (AGTR)
• To input, validate and provide support in editing and data analysis for inclusion in the ILRI-SLU Animal Genetics Training Resource and for publication
• Any other task related to the ILRI-SLU project.

Core competencies
• Familiarity with Data preparation for animal genetic evaluation, and use of Microsoft Access data bases and programmes used in quantitative genetic evaluation of field data
• Computer literacy a MUST with good organisational skills and ability to work in a multicultural setting.

Education
• M.Sc. in Animal Genetics and Breeding or animal science related field.
Work experience

Languages
English
Other desirable skills

Terms of appointment
This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position based at ILRI’s Nairobi campus and is on a 2-year fixed term contract. Salary and benefits will be in line with those provided within ILRI’s NRS scheme.
Applications
Applicants should send a cover letter expressing their interest and expectations from the position, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details (Telephone, E-mail) of three professional referees to the Human Resources Office, ILRI, P.O. Box 30709 00100, Nairobi, Kenya; Telephone: 254-20-4223000; Fax: 254-20-4223001; e-mail: recruit-ilri@cgiar.org by 6th July 2007. The title and reference number of the position for which the application is made should be clearly marked on the envelope mailed, or on the fax or email application. Only those short listed candidates will be contacted To find out more about ILRI, visit our website at http://www.ilri.org We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage women to apply for this position.

3. Accountant – Accounts Payable

Closing date 6/7/2007
Date of issuance 20/6/2007
Organisational unit HRFA - Finance
Duty station Nairobi Kenya
Vacancy announcement no. AP/HRFA/06/07



Responsibilities
Specific duties will include:
• Ensuring that supplier payments are made in an accurate and timely manner
• Ensuring that supplier statements are reconciled with the ILRI records and that differences are minimised and clear.
• Communicating with suppliers, procurement and stores colleagues as needed
• In conjunction with procurement unit, to maintain and update the vendor list recommending changes in provisioning levels and write-offs as required.
• Assist the Treasury supervisor on processing insurance claims
• Assist during audits as and when necessary
• Carry out monthly bank reconciliations; ensuring reconciled items are promptly addressed.

Core competencies
• Analytical and interpersonal skills required as well as knowledge of sun system
Education
• Bachelor’s in commerce or CPA 2 or equivalent
Work experience
• One year’s relevant experience in accounting
Languages
English
Other desirable skills

Terms of appointment
This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position based at ILRI’s Nairobi campus and is on a 2-year renewable contract subject to availability of funds. Salary and benefits will be in line with those provided within ILRI’s NRS scheme.
Applications
Applicants should send a cover letter expressing their interest and expectations from the position, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details (Telephone, E-mail) of three professional referees to the Human Resources Office, ILRI, P.O. Box 30709 00100, Nairobi, Kenya; Telephone: 254-20-4223000; Fax: 254-20-4223001; e-mail: recruit-ilri@cgiar.org by 6th July 2007. The title and reference number of the position for which the application is made should be clearly marked on the envelope mailed, or on the fax or email application. Only those short listed candidates will be contacted To find out more about ILRI, visit our website at http://www.ilri.org We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage women to apply for this position.

4. Accountant – Staff Accounts

Closing date 6/7/2007
Date of issuance 20/6/2007
Organisational unit HRFA - Finance
Duty station Nairobi Kenya
Vacancy announcement no. SA/HRFA/06/07



Responsibilities
Specific duties will include:
• Monitoring the staff accounts balances to ensure they are correct and minimised and informing staff on their balances on imprest, advances and any expenditure that is not accounted for.
• Verifying all pay requests by staff in order to ascertain the availability of funds in their personal accounts
• Processing travel advances and travel expense claims in accordance with the ILRI travel policy and regularly consulting with staff to confirm and correct the details as needed
• Processing recharges from various units ensuring correct and appropriate grant codes and cost centres are charged
• Ensuring that services offered to other organisations are invoiced on time and follows up the payments.

Core competencies
• Interpersonal skills, analytical skills and knowledge of sun system.
Education
• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce or CPA 2 or equivalent
Work experience
• Two years experience in Accounting with experience in the NGO environment an added advantage
Languages
English
Other desirable skills

Terms of appointment
This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position based at ILRI’s Nairobi campus and is on a 2-year renewable contract subject to availability of funds. Salary and benefits will be in line with those provided within ILRI’s NRS scheme.

Applications
Applicants should send a cover letter expressing their interest and expectations from the position, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details (Telephone, E-mail) of three professional referees to the Human Resources Office, ILRI, P.O. Box 30709 00100, Nairobi, Kenya; Telephone: 254-20-4223000; Fax: 254-20-4223001; e-mail: recruit-ilri@cgiar.org by 6th July 2007. The title and reference number of the position for which the application is made should be clearly marked on the envelope mailed, or on the fax or email application. Only those short listed candidates will be contacted To find out more about ILRI, visit our website at http://www.ilri.org We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage women to apply for this position.

Job Vacancies.

1.General Manager

We are an upcoming telecommunications player in the VIOP market. We are looking for a highly motivated and qualified individual to fill the challenging position of General Manager.

Reporting to the Group CEO, the job holder will oversee all the company operations, growth of new business, client relationship and provide leadership in the creation of strategic, tactical, and financial plans. He/ She will also be responsible for leading a highly dynamic team of marketing and technical staff to achieve the set targets.

The individual will have proven experience in project management with a bias towards business development. He/ she will have an aggressive pioneering attitude willing to venture into new business areas and territories.

Qualifications and experience:

A University Degree in Telecomms engineering.
Degree in any other related discipline with experience in Telecommunications or ICT business environment will be considered.
5-8 years relevant experience in a busy maintenance facility or project management, 3 of which must be at management level.
Must prove technical proficiency and knowledge in diverse telecomms fields.
An entrepreneurial and business development mindset with a high level of integrity





Interested applicants should email their CV and cover letter to jobs@linksoftsys.com

2. Finance and Administrative Assistant

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is one of 15 Future Harvest Centres supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). As a global leader in agroforestry research and development, our client’s ultimate purpose is to improve human welfare by reducing poverty, increasing cash income, improving food and nutritional security, and environmental resilience through agroforestry transformations. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, it works in 23 countries spread across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The position
ICRAF seeks to recruit a Finance and Administrative Assistant, whose position falls under East Africa Region in Western Kenya and reports to the Team Leader. The incumbent will be based in Kisumu and his/her main responsibility shall be to provide financial and administrative support to the Western Kenya office. The specific responsibilities include:

Preparing wages for Temporary staff and Casual Laborers
Handling all petty cash payments for all Western Kenya projects and ensuring that they are bonafide
Making all cheque payments for all projects in west Kenya in liaison with Administrator, Team Leader and other project leaders
Compiling the project imprest return sheet
Making sure all payments vouchers and supporting documents are stamped “PAID” or “REJECTED” and coding them properly.
Custodian of stores, including keeping all store movement records.
Maintaining monthly financial requirements for the office, and requesting replenishment from Headquarters; advise management on availability of funds;
Supervising activities concerned with office and grounds maintenance, transport and other services;
Briefing visiting staff; students and scientists on general administrative matters, provide advice and ensure administrative support as required;
Providing administrative support to the Western Kenya office.
Undertake other duties as required by the supervisor.
The candidate will have:
Bachelor Degree in Commerce, Administration, and Finance, or Certificated Public Accountant (CPA II)
Three years work experience in an NGO. Experience in Donor funded projects is an added advantage
In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in Sun System accounting package, and MS office Suite
Experience in following complex guidelines for procurement, financial issues, accounts management and accounting procedures
Good analytical and writing skills
Good interpersonal skills and communication skills
Courtesy, tact and the ability to work effectively in a in a multi-cultural background
Must be a team player
Ability to multi-task in a busy working environment
Terms of offer
ICRAF is an equal opportunity employer offering a competitive salary and benefits package, and a collegial working environment. The contract is for an initial period of one (1) year, renewable subject to a three (3) months probation period, assessment of performance, and availability of resources. Applicants are invited to send a cover letter illustrating their suitability for the above position against the listed qualifications/competencies/skills and a detailed curriculum vitae, with names and addresses of three referees (including telephone and fax numbers and email address). Applications should indicate “Application for Finance and Administrative Assistant” on their application letters OR email submissions. All correspondence should be addressed to the Human Resources Unit, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), P.O. Box 30677, Nairobi, Kenya OR via email: icrafhru@cgiar.org. Applications will be considered until 15 June 2007.

Only short listed applicants will be contacted.

We invite you to learn more about ICRAF by accessing our web site: http://www.worldagroforestrycentre.org

3. Field Finance & Administration Officer

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: Field Finance & Administration Officer

FUNCTIONALLY RESPONSIBLE TO: Logistician/Administrator

TECHNICALLY RESPONSIBLE TO: Regional Finance Manager

WORKING WITH: Merlin field team

LOCATION: Lodwar, Turkana District


OVERALL OBJECTIVE OF THE POSITION
The overall objective of the position is to ensure the smooth running of administrative and finance procedures of the Merlin Lodwar office.

Main duties and responsibilities:

Finance

Responsible for all cash and cheque payments pertaining to the programme.
Keep the cashbook up to date at all times with records of all expenditure and verify the same with regular cash counts while keeping the receipts clearly labelled.
Enter all data on to the computerized cashbooks ensuring the correct account codes are used.
Keep the computerized Bank Book up to date.
Responsible for all cash transfers arriving from Nairobi, the bank account transactions and withdrawals into the cash box.
Ensure that the cash box is kept in a discrete and safe place at all times.
Ensure that all receipts are correctly referenced and that photocopies of each are filed and sent to Nairobi office by the first day of the next month.
Prepare cash counts and bank statements for review by the Regional Finance Manager ensuring that the same reach the Regional Office by the first of the next month.
Providing the Regional Finance Manager (Nairobi office) with complete and verified accounts at each month end in computerised form by the 25th of every month.
Keeping up-to date financial records and transactions.
Prepare the three month financial forecast and send it to the Regional Finance Manager by the first day (1st) of every month.
Interpret the Budget Vs Actual (BVAs) to the Logistician/Administrator and the other project employees in conjunction with the Nairobi finance office.
Work in strict collaboration with the Logistician/Administrator in project budget monitoring.
Ensure that the cash box is kept in a discrete and safe place at all times.


Administration

Responsible for the overall running of the office and guesthouse and ensuring that systems are clear and in place for the benefit of the whole team.
Monitoring the office and guesthouse expenses (utility bills, kitchen and guesthouse running costs etc) ensuring that they are within the available budget.
Ensuring that travel arrangements and accommodation bookings for Merlin staff and guests are done in an efficient manner.
Maintain proper records of all staff in Merlin Lodwar project (personal records, contracts, leave, medical consultations, etc).
Supervise the housekeepers ensuring that they undertake their duties as per the Job Descriptions.
Ensure the office rooms and windows are closed at the end of the day.
Ensure there is daily and clear communication on telephone and E-mail between the Head Office (Nairobi) and the Field Base (Lodwar).
Take the lead in recruitment for new positions at the field level.


To Apply, please send your CV and covering letter to:

The Administrator
Merlin
P.O Box 3350-00200
Nairobi

Email: regional.recruitment@merlin-eastafrica.org

Closing date: July 1st 2007

Only short listed applicants will be contacted.

4. Executive Officer to Country Director

I. Position Information
Post Title: Executive Officer to Country Director
Type of Contract: Fixed-Term – National Officer
Level: National Officer – A
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya (Relocation to Somalia when situation permits)
Date of Issue: 14 June 2007
Closing Date: 29 June 2007
II. Background
UNDP is the UN’s global development network, an organization advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. UNDP is on the ground in 166 countries, working with national counterparts on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.
UNDP Somalia is a growing organization which focuses on three practice areas: rule of law and security, governance and poverty reduction/sustainable livelihoods.
Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Country Director (CD), the Executive Officer to CD ensures effective and efficient functioning of the CD’s Office, full confidentiality in all aspects of assignment, maintenance of protocol procedures, management of information flow, follow up on deadlines and commitments made.
The Executive Officer to CD works in close collaboration with UNDP staff, UN Agencies, national authorities, Development Group Office (DGO) and UNDP HQs staff to ensure efficient flow of information, actions on instructions, agendas, prepare draft letters on behalf of the CD.
The Executive Officer will provide Programme and Operations Support to the Country Director, acting as a key interface with all Units in the CO and other UN agencies.
III. Functions / Key Results Expected
1. Ensures effective and efficient functioning of the Resident Representative/Resident Co-coordinator (RR/RC) office focusing on achievement of the following results:
Coordinate and maintain the supervisor’s calendar of meetings, organize meetings, contacts with high-ranking visitors, arrangement of appointments and meetings, draft replies to invitations and meetings; researches briefing materials, acting as an interpreter when required and/or taking minutes.
Preparation of high quality briefing materials for supervisor appointments, meetings, missions.
Maintenance of rosters of high-level partners, telephone lists.
Preparation of correspondence, directives, comments on behalf of RR/RC for his/her signature and making follow up when required.
Use of automated office management systems for effective functioning of the RR/RC.CD office.
2. Ensures provision of effective communication support to the office on achievement of the following results:
Maintenance of the filing system ensuring safekeeping of confidential materials. Use of automated filing system.
Facilitation of information sharing between Senior Management Team (SMT) and CD’s Office.
Review and screening incoming correspondence for the CD’s attention and prioritize documents according to action required; review and edit outgoing correspondence for the CD’s signature; ensure quality control, substance, sensitivity of issues, and that they are prepared according to UNDP standards;
Presentation of proposals to eliminate communication bottlenecks in the office and streamline office procedures between the supervisor’s office and subordinate division.
3. Ensures administrative support to the CD:
Assist in managing day to day operations of the CD office; convey to staff directives and information from the CD; participate in and drafts minutes of meeting and ensure that actions agreed upon are taken by the concerned staff.
Co-ordinate CD’s participation in Programme/Operations activities by monitoring and managing the CD’s daily programme and providing guidance to units in preparing background/briefing documents for the CD. The incumbent also provides support to units in preparing speeches, papers, and letters for CD ensuring quality and relevance to subject and themes.
Make arrangements for official travel of the CD, communicate with meeting organizers/country offices on logistics; set itinerary, prepare travel request, follow up on the authorization, obtain clearances, visas, tickets necessary for travel.
Provide other administrative and finance/accounts management support to the CD (i.e. processing payment requests in ATLAS; requisitions and claims)
Coordinate preparation of briefs in response to requests for information by
UNDP and other relevant agencies;
4. Ensures facilitation of knowledge building and management focusing on achievement of the following results:
Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.
Organization of specialized trainings for secretaries.
Organization of trainings to UN staff on coordination, administration and protocol issues.
Any other assignments at the request of the Country Director.
IV. Competencies
Corporate Competencies:
Knowledge of UNDP/UN regulations, rules, policies, procedures and practices;
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
Sound understating and experience of working in Arab and/or African contexts.
Functional Competencies:
Partnership building: Promotes partnerships and is proactive in pursuing new partnerships; Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors; Promotes team work
Knowledge Management and Learning
Promotes a knowledge sharing and learning culture in the office
Shares knowledge and experience and contributes to UNDP Practice Areas and actively works towards continuing personal learning and development
In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues
Development and Operational Effectiveness
Ability to lead strategic planning, results-based management and reporting; Ability for planning and establishing priorities; coordinating and monitoring the work of others, and delegating responsibility where appropriate; Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills; Excellent writing skills; Excellent analytical skills; Good interpersonal and supervisory skills; Good command of MS Office applications (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and advanced knowledge of web based management systems desirable (Atlas etc).
Management and Leadership
Flexible and responsive with a client-oriented approach; Effective problem-solver; demonstrated capacity-building and facilitation skills; Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to critical feedback; Encourages risk-taking in the pursuit of creativity and innovation; Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude; Resourcefulness, initiative, and maturity of judgment; Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines; Ability to think strategically and the ability to translate this into practical and feasible operational actions
V. Recruitment Qualifications
Education: Masters Degree in development studies or social sciences and development issues
Experience and Competencies:
Prospective candidates must have a minimum of five years recent and relevant experience in a similar position, supporting implementation and management of projects and country office operations.
Must be conversant with UN system operations.
In depth knowledge on programme and project management preferably in developing countries
High proficiency in research and report writing, communication and advocacy skills.
Ability to build networks and partnerships and capacity to work in a team set up.
Demonstrates critical ability and sound judgment in the pursuit of requests to full completion.
Good analytical and computer skills in data management, programme and project management
Balances meeting deadlines, while maintaining highest professional standards and accuracy.
Demonstrates the highest level of discretion and helpfulness in a manner that reflects positives on the CO
Demonstrates understanding of the UN organizational structure and external partners for purposes of efficiently handling incoming queries and requests, and for collecting information and performing liaison functions.

Language Requirements: Fluency in English, both verbal and written is essential; working knowledge of at least one other official UN language is an asset. Knowledge of Arabic or Somali an asset.

VI. Submission of application

Please send your curriculum vitae, marked “Executive Officer to Country Director” by 29th June 2007 to: The Deputy Country Director (Operations), United Nations Development Programme - Somalia, P.O. Box 28832, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya, e-mail: registry.so@undp.org. UNDP will only be able to respond to those applications in which there is further interest. Women are strongly encouraged to apply.