INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION
ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems. ITU also organizes global Telecom events bringing together the most influential representatives of government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all.
ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.
Accountability Framework Coordinator
Vacancy notice no: 2284
Sector: SG
Department: A&F
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number:
Grade: P4
Type of contract: Short-term
Duration of contract: 11 months
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 29 April 2026
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union. The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy. The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public.
Within the General Secretariat, Administration and Finance advises the Secretary General on human and financial resources management, and procurement. It manages ITU’s resources ensuring consistency with ITU strategies, policies, regulations and rules as well as UN Common System policies. Efficiently manages the human capital of the Union; creates a stimulating and supportive work environment and encourages organizational creativity and performance measurement based on results. Administration and Finance also ensures sound and balanced financial management of the Union; provides support and strategic advice on financial and budgetary matters, with a goal to strengthen ITU’s financial system.
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has developed a draft Delegation of Authority (DoA) Framework, intended to be implemented as a key component of its overarching Accountability Framework (SO 22/28). Recent audit observations highlighted the need to strengthen the clear assignment of managerial accountability, particularly in forecasting, budget execution, financial controls, and core management functions.
To move from framework design to actual implementation, ITU requires dedicated capacity to support the review and update of the Accountability Framework, and subsequently the finalization, approval, operationalization, communication, and monitoring of the DoA Framework.
Within the Administration and Finance Department, under the supervision of the Chief, Administration and Finance (Chief A&F), the Accountability Framework Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the review and update of the Accountability Framework, as well as the design and implementation of the Delegation of Authority (DoA) Framework. This role ensures that ITU accountability mechanisms are fully developed and operationalized, with a particular focus on effective implementation of the second line of defense.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The specific duties to be performed are:
- Conduct a comprehensive gap analysis of the current ITU Accountability Framework (SO 22/08), reflecting the latest developments, including the establishment of the Oversight Unit, the Evaluation Function, and the new operational planning process. This should allow for better alignment with the new JIU Accountability Framework benchmark (JIU/REP/2023/3 Accountability frameworks in the UN system); identify areas where the ITU Accountability Framework can be strengthened and improved; develop a revised version aligned with these developments. Seek feedback on the draft from relevant ITU stakeholders and finalize the revised document incorporating the feedback.
- Oversee the finalization and approval of a comprehensive ITU Delegation of Authority (DoA)Framework by coordinating closely with Legal Affairs (JUR) and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring that the framework is thoroughly finalized, and preparing all necessary documentation required for the internal approval processes.
- Define and recommend, in collaboration with the Chief, A&F, appropriate levels of delegated authority to the Secretary General. Finalize the approval process for these delegations in coordination with relevant bodies, such as CoCo and SG, and prepare formal Delegation of Authority Letters to ensure a clear and documented assignment of responsibilities.
- Identify training needs across all relevant units and coordinate updates to system permissions to ensure staff are adequately prepared and equipped for their roles to support seamless implementation and reinforce clear accountability within the organization. Develop comprehensive training materials and conduct or coordinate briefing sessions for staff and management to ensure understanding of the new Delegation of Authority Framework.
- Develop and disseminate clear communication materials regarding the new framework to ensure organization-wide awareness of changes to accountability and delegated authority.
- Liaise with relevant units to ensure timely updates to system permissions and access rights, ensuring strict alignment with the newly signed Delegation of Authority Letters.
- Design and oversee implementation of accountability and control mechanisms to ensure effective monitoring of, and compliance with, the accountability measures implemented.
- Perform other assigned responsibilities as may be required, in line with the general scope of the work.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Applying Expertise; Effective Communication; Learning and Knowledge Sharing; Organizational Commitment; Results-Focused, and; Teamwork and Collaboration.
FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
- Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and present it clearly and concisely.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Expertise in designing and implementing Delegation of Authority (DoA) instruments.
- Strong knowledge of internal controls, risk management, and the three lines of defence model
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Umoja) and access rights management.
- Ability to translate frameworks into policies, procedures, and training materials.
- Understanding of United Nations best practices.
- Strong Understanding of UN accountability frameworks and JIU benchmarks would be an asset.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education:
Advanced university degree in business administration, accounting, finance, or a related field OR education from a reputed college of advanced education with a diploma of equivalent standard to an advanced university degree in one of the fields above.
For internal candidates, a first university degree in one of the fields above in combination with ten years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree for promotion or rotation purposes.
Experience:
At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in audit or a related area, such as accounting, business administration, finance, program/project evaluation and monitoring, including at least three years at the international level.
A Doctorate in a related field can be considered as a substitute for three years of professional experience.
Demonstrated experience and understanding of United Nations best practices is required.
Experience in public sector administration or auditing is an advantage.
Languages:
Knowledge of one of the six official languages of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) at advanced level and knowledge of a second official language at intermediate level. Knowledge of a third official language would be an advantage. (Under the provisions of Resolution No. 626 of the Council, a relaxation of the language requirements may be authorized in the case of candidates from developing countries: when candidates from such countries possess a thorough knowledge of one of the official languages of the Union, their applications may be taken into consideration.)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This temporary opportunity is available to individuals residing locally.
INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU career website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
