Head of Field Office

January 30 2026

B

FamilyFamily

NOC

National Professional Officer

Reason

Regular > Regular Assignment

Head of Field Office

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships

Head of a UNHCR Field Office (HoFO) is a senior managerial position within a given country operation. The incumbent carries the full delegated authority of the UNHCR Representative (or the Head of Sub-Office) of the country who will exercise entire supervisory managerial responsibility over the position. The position on the other hand provides all information on developments in relation to the protection (legal protection issues relating to the persons of concern to UNHCR) security (Physical security in relation to the UNHCR staff and the persons of concern to UNHCR) and operational matters (programme and office management / administration) within the domain of its geographical area of responsibility to the UNHCR Representative on a regular and timely manner. Subject to the specific legal or socio economic or security developments in the Area of Responsibility (AOR) Representative will direct and guide the Head of Field Office to take the most appropriate course of action. Concerning overall physical security concerns HoFO will liaise directly with the competent UN security coordinator while keeping the UNHCR Representative fully informed.

While the functional responsibility of a Head of Field Office will always remain the same despite its grade level the other parameters (therefore the depth and breadth of the competencies) such as the size of the population of concern to UNHCR their specific legal/security concerns volume of assistance Number of operational / Implementing partners and the size of the Office (i.e. number of UNHCR staff and their grade levels) will determine the appropriate grade level. The operational autonomy also depends upon the same parameters/competencies.

As the most senior UNHCR staff member within the given geographical area he/she is required to liaise with all the relevant senior government officials security organs in the area the Head of various Non-Governmental Organisations (both national and internationals based in the area) Civilian/tribal leaders/elders local opinion makers and the local media net-work to ensure his/her assigned responsibilities are effectively and efficiently discharged.

As the extended field representative of UNHCR at the front line of High Commissioners operations he/she remain as the effective advocate and assistant to the local authorities to ensure that the respective government authorities in the area implement their conventional responsibilities in favour of refugees and others of concern to UNHCR.

All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter UN Staff Regulations and Rules UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability addition staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core functional cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCRs core values of professionalism integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties
- Monitor and report on the implementation of refugee conventional responsibilities and international obligations of the local authorities Vis a Vis the population of concern to UNHCR within the given geographical area; based on local situations/developments make appropriate recommendation to the UNHCR Representative/HoSO.
- Advocate and promote UNHCR standards concerning the treatment of asylum seekers refugees and returnees as well as IDPs where applicable; Advocate promote and encourage the concerned authorities and local opinion makers to uphold established UNHCR standards that have become the international norms.
- Ensure that the basic needs of the concerned population are properly assessed with the participation of the beneficiaries themselves the host governments and/or the competent Implementing partners and/or UNHCR itself.
- Subject to the needs ensure that the planning formulation and budgeting of identified assistance projects are done as per UNHCR programme cycle; upon approval of assistance project ensure the timely implementation and rigorous monitoring of identified assistance activities
- Ensure through the subordinate staff that all deadlines for monitoring and reporting of UNHCR operational activities (i.e. include assistance as well as Administrative) are met on a regular basis.
- Manage all UNHCR resources both human financial/material at an optimum level for the wellbeing of the concerned population and the UNHCR staff.
- Ensure that all security measures of UNHCR office (and residential where ever applicable) compounds are always up to date; any security breaches and/or potential security threat should be reported immediately to competent UN security coordinator in the country.
- Ensure that staff welfare both in terms of working and living conditions are maintained at a satisfactory level within the constraints in the operational area; this requires remaining current in health and medical facilities locally available and evacuation options available in a moment of medical urgency.
- Guide coach and advocate the subordinate staff to maintain highest standards of conduct and behaviour thorough ones own practice and deeds.
- Prepare and submit regular reports both verbally and written to the UNHCR Representative/ the event of substantial telephone conversation that leads to specific action or non-action it should be recorded and share with the other party.
- Any other responsibilities/functions deemed necessary or as delegated by the UNHCR Representative of the country in order to meet the level of the services in the organization.
- Represent UNHCR in inter-agency fora and with local authorities in the AOR.
- Enforce compliance with UNHCRs global protection programme finance human resources and security policies and standards.
- Submit project proposals for assistance to refugees and other persons of concern to UNHCR Representation or Sub-Office in coordination with local authorities and NGOs.

- Lead risk assessments and discussions with team(s) to proactively manage risks and seize opportunities impacting objectives. Ensure that risk management principles are integrated in decision-making both at strategic and operational levels. Allocate resources for planned treatments with resource requirements in Strategic Plans. Ensure that risks are managed to acceptable levels and escalate as needed. If a Risk Owner designate the Risk Focal Point and certify that the annual risk review is completed and ensure that the risk register is updated during the year as needed.
- Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Professional Work Experience
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P3/NOC - 6 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 5 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 4 years relevant experience with Doctorate degree

Field(s) of Education
Management;
Personnel Administration;
Law;
Political Science;
International Relation;
Economics;
or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
HCR Management Lrng Prg;
HCR Managing Operatns Lrng Prg;
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Relevant Job Experience
Essential
In-depth knowledge in all aspects of UNHCRs Field level experience of protection principles operational arrangements/standards in relation to protection assistance UNHCR office management and staff administration. Should be conversant in the current priorities in the organisation and existing mechanisms within the organisation to implement those priorities.
Desirable
Working experience both in UNHCR HQ and/or a Regional Office and the Field

Functional Skills
IT-Computer Literacy
PR-International protection concepts and principles
MG-Office Management
HR-Administration of Staff Contracts and Benefits
UN-UN/UNHCR Mandate and Global Strategic Priorities
IT-Microsoft Office Productivity Software
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.

All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse harassment including sexual harassment sexism gender inequality discrimination and abuse of power.

As individuals and as managers all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.

This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening shortlisting and selection of candidates.

The desired profile for the Head of Field Office in Boa Vista includes strong expertise in protection emergency response and field based coordination in complex humanitarian environments ideally in border or high mobility contexts. The candidate should have proven experience managing medium to large-scale multi partner operations including emergency shelter management humanitarian assistance and transition strategies toward socio economic inclusion. Solid technical capacity in inter agency coordination and engagement with partners federal state and municipal authorities is essential particularly within joint structures such as Operação Acolhida. The incumbent must demonstrate the ability to lead protection strategies for indigenous populations and persons with specific needs and possess strong skills in strategic planning contextual analysis risk management and producing high-quality operational reporting and briefings for donors and diplomatic missions.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Eligibility:

This position is advertised to internal applicants and UNHCR experience applicants. Candidates must be legally present in Brazil at the time of application recruitment and hire. Only Brazilian citizens or candidates legally present in Brazil will be considered eligible.

Internal Candidates:

Current NPO staff members holding an indefinite or fixed-term appointment who at the date of the deadline for application are serving in the country of the vacancy at the grade of the position or one grade below or above.

UNHCR experience candidates:

Current NPO staff members holding an indefinite or fixed-term appointment applying to two grades above their own current UNHCR staff members holding an indefinite or fixed-term appointment in other categories (P/FS/GS) staff loaned/seconded from another UN organization/international organization/government entity staff members on temporary appointment affiliate workforce interns as well as former UNHCR locally recruited staff members who held an indefinite or fixed-term appointment (within 2 years of separation for males and 5 years for females).

Only candidates who pass the functional test can continue with the next steps of the process.

Remuneration:
A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered. For information on UN salaries allowances and benefits please visit the portal of the International Civil Service Commission and please refer to the relevant category / grade level at:

UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application interview /meeting processing training or any other fees).

Applications:

All applications must be submitted online in Workday. Email applications will not be accepted. Incomplete and late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates might be required to sit for a written test and/or oral interview. UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application interview processing or any other fees).

The evaluation of applicants will be conducted based on the information submitted during the application. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications. No amendment addition deletion revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application.

UNHCR is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates irrespective of gender nationality sexual orientation religious and ethnic backgrounds including persons living with disabilities to apply to become a part of the organization. UNHCR seeks to ensure that male and female employees are given equal career opportunities. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

UNHCR has a zero-tolerance policy against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA). SEA is unacceptable behavior and prohibited conduct for UNHCR personnel. It constitutes acts of serious misconduct and is therefore grounds for disciplinary measures including dismissal. Any concerns or suspicions about a possible case of SEA should be reported immediately to the Inspector Generals Office (IGO) at or throughthe online complainform at or by confidential fax:.

Portuguese

English

Operational context

Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:

To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station please visit this link: of Position:

Brazil hosts an expansive and diverse refugee population with over 887000 individuals requiring international protection. The country serves as a vital entry point for refugees primarily from Venezuela entering through the state of Roraima and from countries such as Afghanistan Haiti Syria and Ukraine arriving via humanitarian visas through São Paulo international airport. There has been a notable increase in the number of Cuban asylum-seekers highlighting Brazils evolving refugee demographics.

UNHCR collaborates closely with the Brazilian government alongside civil society academia private sector and development actors to facilitate access to basic rights and promote socio-economic integration for refugees. This includes bolstering national and local policies for receiving protecting and integrating refugees and other individuals in need of protection. UNHCRs protection efforts extend across the country targeting vulnerable groups such as survivors of gender-based violence indigenous populations and unaccompanied children.

Despite Brazils robust legal framework granting refugees equal rights and unrestricted access to public services practical challenges remain. Refugees face barriers such as language differences limited local service capacity and status-specific impediments affecting their full economic participation. National strategies like Operation Welcome address these challenges setting standards for reception and assistance and facilitating relocation across Brazil to foster integration particularly for the Venezuelan population.

Special attention is required for indigenous refugees from Venezuela who experience significant socio-economic integration obstacles. Tailored initiatives are essential to support their transition from emergency shelters while respecting cultural rights.

With the recent influx of Afghan refugees particularly following the humanitarian visa policy the local systems in São Paulo are adapting to manage increased arrivals and new community dynamics. Similarly the growing Cuban refugee population poses challenges requiring UNHCRs continued support in documentation and integration.

The Multi-Year Multi-Partner Strategy for Brazil () aims to enhance local integration as a priority leveraging Brazils leadership in refugee protection to fortify access to rights through the forthcoming National Policy on Migration Asylum and Statelessness. However challenges such as housing precarity organized crime vulnerabilities and socio-economic barriers for women and girls remain significant obstacles that need addressing to ensure successful integration.

UNHCRs vision is that by 2029 forcibly displaced and stateless people in Brazil will enjoy a safe inclusive and sustainable environment with fully protected rights and pathways to self-reliance and societal integration.

In Boa Vista located in the northern state of Roraima UNHCR plays a pivotal role given its proximity to the border with Venezuela which is a primary entry point for Venezuelan refugees. Boa Vista faces unique operational challenges due to its location; it serves as a critical hub for reception and immediate humanitarian assistance. Particular emphasis is placed on the transition of shelter management and the coordination of services aimed at ensuring safety and dignity for newly arrived refugees. Collaborative efforts focus on the integration and sustainable self-reliance of refugees overcoming barriers related to language and employment elevated by the citys limited capacity to absorb the continuous influx. Tailored interventions seek to empower vulnerable groups particularly indigenous peoples facilitating their transition into urban settings while respecting cultural practices.

Special attention is required for indigenous refugees from Venezuela who experience significant socio-economic integration obstacles. Tailored initiatives are essential to support their transition from emergency shelters while respecting cultural rights.

The Head of the Field Office in Boa Vista plays a pivotal role in directing and managing UNHCRs operations in this strategic border location ensuring effective implementation of protection and assistance programmes for refugees and migrants entering through Roraima. The role oversees transition of emergency shelter management humanitarian assistance and pathways for socioeconomic inclusion while coordinating closely with partners federal state and municipal authorities UN agencies and civil society. It also provides essential internal leadershipmotivating staff fostering cohesion and maintaining a supportive and accountable work environment in a highpressure addition the Head of Office represents UNHCR locally welcoming donor and diplomatic missions providing operational briefings and ensuring that partners receive accurate timely and strategic information.

The position also ensures regular reporting and alignment with the Deputy Representative as direct supervisor - and the national office under the overall supervision of the Representative supporting coherent decisionmaking and the effective implementation of Operação Acolhida including dignified reception and voluntary relocation strategies. The role requires adaptive leadership strong strategic planning and the capacity to respond to evolving needsparticularly for vulnerable groups such as indigenous communitieswhile upholding UNHCRs standards of protection coordination partnership engagement and accountability. Through these functions the Head of the Field Office ensures safe dignified and sustainable solutions for refugees and migrants across Brazil.

Living and Working Conditions:

The selected candidate will be based in Boa Vista Roraima a Category B duty station with a population of over 400000. The city experiences high temperatures year-round with distinct dry and wet seasons. Healthcare facilities are available in Boa Vista and other major cities across the country.

Boa Vista offers various leisure and cultural activities including numerous parks and green spaces with a particular focus on early childhood development. The city has a public transportation system as well as private taxi services.

The office is centrally located providing easy access to both public and private transport. Upon arrival the selected candidate will be assigned a dedicated workstation and provided with all necessary equipment and tools to carry out their duties effectively.

Additional Qualifications

Skills

HR-Administration of Staff Contracts and Benefits IT-Computer Literacy IT-Microsoft Office Productivity Software MG-Office Management PR-International protection concepts and principles UN-UN/UNHCR Mandate and Global Strategic Priorities

Education

Bachelor of Arts: Economics Bachelor of Arts: International Relations Bachelor of Arts: Law Bachelor of Arts: Management Bachelor of Arts: Personnel Administration Bachelor of Arts: Political Science

Certifications

HCR Management Learning Program - UNHCR Programme Management (PM) 1 - UNHCR

Work Experience

Competencies

Accountability Analytical thinking Client & results orientation Commitment to continuous learning Communication Empowering & building trust Judgement & decision making Leadership Managing performance Managing resource Organizational awareness Planning & organizing Political awareness Strategic planning & visions Teamwork & collaboration

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Additional Information

This position doesnt require a functional clearance