Result of Service

The consultant for conflict resolution is expected to provide the full range of informal dispute resolution services to UN personnel through in-person and virtual engagement. These services shall be provided in a confidential manner. As needed the consultant is required to provide systemic feedback to the Ombudsman, the Chief of Service or the Regional Ombudsman should there be an observable conflict pattern in the cases received. The consultant will receive and handle confidential cases assigned directly from the Chief of Service and/or the Regional Ombudsman. Due to the confidential nature of the work of the Office and in accordance with the Terms of Reference, the consultant is not required to submit reports.

Work Location

remotely

Expected duration

six months initially with possible extension if resources are available.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services (UNOMS), was established as the informal pillar of the internal system of administration of justice, to make available services of impartial and neutral persons to address work-related concerns of UN employees. Under the general authority of the UN Ombudsman and the immediate supervision of the Regional Ombudsman and/or the Chief of Service, the Consultant for Conflict Resolution will be responsible for the following duties: Provide alternative dispute resolution services to employees of the United Nations Secretariat and other offices served by the informal pillar of the Administration of Justice system. Conduct mediation by helping all parties to resolve workplace conflicts in a voluntary and confidential process, acting as a neutral third-party, facilitate and help conflicting parties to discuss issues and negotiate an agreement. Maintain neutrality, impartiality and confidentiality towards all visitors, gather information as appropriate, and help identify and understand issues and interests, explore options, and generate solutions. Assist in the deliver of outreach initiatives to promote awareness of informal conflict resolution services and conduct skill-building activities to strengthen conflict competence among staff members and affiliated personnel. Offer creative and expert advice on the best option or dispute resolution technique to meet the visitor’s needs. Work collaboratively to achieve solutions to employment related problems as requested. Develop relationships with visitors and advise on services available from UNOMS. Where required, assist in follow up to receive feedback and to advise visitors of further available services.

Qualifications/special skills

An Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent degree) in conflict resolution, law, social sciences or a related field is required. A first university degree with the relevant combination of qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in dispute resolution, managerial or legal is required. Experience providing informal conflict resolution services in the workplace is required. Experience working in an international organizational setting is desirable.

Languages

For this consultancy a combination of fluency in English and French; English and Spanish; or English, French and Spanish is required.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

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.

Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services

Consultant for Informal Conflict Resolution