Stretch Assignment: Administrative Officer, Ghana Country Office (Onsite)
Title: Administrative Officer
Level: NOB – we encourage staff from all levels with the relevant experience to apply
Reports to: Deputy Representative Operations
Duration: Three (3) months
Section: Operations Section
Location: Accra, Ghana
Dates/Duration: Stretch assignment from 24 August 2026 until 23 November 2026.
Eligibility: All Fixed-Term, Permanent or continuing appointment UNICEF staff members currently working in UNICEF worldwide.
Background
UNICEF has been the leading child-rights organization, and a respected partner, for saving and improving children’s lives. In Ghana, UNICEF cooperates with the Government and other partners to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to ensure equitable access to quality social services, and to expand children’s opportunities to reach their full potential. With offices in Accra and Tamale, the UNICEF team seeks to achieve results in strategic programme areas. The overall goal is for every child to survive and thrive, to live in a safe and clean environment, to learn, to be protected from violence and exploitation, and to have an equitable chance in life. UNICEF main strategies include evidence-based advocacy, system strengthening, integrated programming across sectors, emergency preparedness and response, and innovation.
Purpose of the Position
Duration
This stretch assignment will be for a period of three (3) months.
Key expected results;
1. Policy, Procedures and Administrative Support
Ensures the consistent application of UNICEF administrative policies, procedures, and regulations, providing guidance to staff and supporting effective administrative operations, compliance, and internal controls. Delivers administrative support to the office and field locations, identifies and resolves operational issues, recommends process improvements, and supports efficient and high-quality service delivery.
2. Budget Management
Supports planning, preparation, monitoring, and control of the administrative budget, including forecasts for office premises, supplies, and equipment, to ensure efficient and uninterrupted office operations across the country office and sub-offices.
3. Administrative Support and Services
Ensures the efficient and cost-effective delivery of administrative services, including office facilities, transport, travel, communications, procurement, and vendor management. Leverages digital tools and data analytics to monitor administrative performance, improve service quality, strengthen accountability, and enhance operational efficiency. Supports UN common services initiatives and manages relationships with service providers and stakeholders to achieve value for money and operational excellence.
4. Property Management
Supports the management of office assets, supplies, equipment, and vehicles, including inventory control and implementation of Property Survey Board recommendations. Monitors the appropriate use of resources and ensures premises and facilities are maintained in line with organizational standards.
5. Contract Arrangement and Control
Ensures compliance of administrative contracts and transactions with organizational policies and regulations. Monitors vendor performance, contract implementation, and payments, and recommends improvements to ensure quality, accountability, and value for money.
6. Partnership, coordination and collaboration
Lead and coordinate administrative initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness, including implementation of UN Business Operations Strategy (BOS) initiatives, common services, workplace modernization, and change management processes. Build strong relationships with government authorities, UN agencies, service providers, and internal stakeholders to improve service quality, operational efficiency, and value for money.
7. Business Continuity, Risk Management and Emergency Preparedness
Serve as a key focal point for administrative risk management, business continuity, and emergency preparedness. Identify operational risks affecting office facilities, fleet, staff welfare, and service delivery; develop mitigation measures; support emergency response readiness; and ensure continuity of critical administrative services during crises and emergencies.
Minimum Qualifications and Competencies:
Education: University degree in social sciences, business management, administration, finance or any other relevant field of discipline.
Experience: Minimum two years of relevant professional work experience with both national and International work experience in office management, administration, finance, accounting, ICT, human resources, supply or any other relevant function.
Funding arrangement
This is a temporary development opportunity and there will be no changes to the staff member’s status (position number, level, etc.).
The Office will cover the ticket for economy class travel and 50% DSA during the stretch assignment period.
Interested UNICEF staff should discuss this opportunity with their supervisor and seek the approval of their management before applying.
Candidates considered potentially well-matched for the stretch assignment will be contacted for an informal interview. Supervisors may also be contacted for references.
UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.
Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone. And we never give up.
