PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM SECRETARIAT. Applicant Information Package

Transcription

1 PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM SECRETARIAT Applicant Information Package

2 CONTENTS A. ABOUT THE PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM SECRETARIAT B. JOB DESCRIPTION Position Identification The Leaders Vision Organisation Context Key Result Areas Work Complexity Functional Relationships Level of Delegation Person Specification Change to Job Description C. REMUNERATION INFORMATION Contract Term Working hours Salary Superannuation Housing Education Recruitment & Repatriation Entitlement Establishment Grant Health/Life Insurance Annual Leave Sick Leave School Holiday Travel Home Leave Travel Repatriation Grant Tax Status Other Benefits D. ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Application closing date & requirements. Mailing & online Addressee s Website

3 A. ABOUT THE PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM SECRETARIAT The information offered in this package is for information only. It does not necessarily form part of the employment contract. The member states of the Pacific Islands Forum are Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat was established in The organisation currently employs 110 staff. The Forum Secretariat s mission is to honour and promote the Forum vision by providing quality policy advice, co-ordination and assistance in implementing Leaders decisions in Member countries with regard to the following four key goals identified by the Forum Leaders: Economic Growth Sustainable Development Good Governance and Security The Pacific Islands Forum Vision: Leaders believe that the Pacific region can, should and will be a region of peace, harmony, security and economic prosperity, so that all its people can lead free and worthwhile lives. We treasure the diversity of the Pacific and seek a future in which its cultures, traditions and religious beliefs are valued, honoured and developed. We see a Pacific region that is respected for the quality of its governance, the sustainable management of its resources, the full observance of democratic values, and for its defence and promotion of human rights. We seek partnerships with our neighbours and beyond to develop our knowledge, to improve our communications and to ensure a sustainable economic existence for all In delivering its mission, the Secretariat will strive for professional excellence while demonstrating personal leadership. It will be responsive to the needs of its stakeholders and will excel within a caring and innovative environment.

4 B. JOB DESCRIPTION Position Identification: Job Title: Work Unit: Responsible To: Responsible For: Strategic Partnerships & Coordination Director, Strategic Partnerships & Coordination Up to 2 staff Job Purpose: Date: This job exists to work with Pacific Island Countries as the focal point for collaboration on issues related to development and implementation regarding sustainable development and natural resource management with a focus on the effective management of marine and terrestrial resources. The Leaders Vision: Leaders believe that the Pacific region can, should and will be a region of peace, harmony, security and economic prosperity, so that all its people can lead free and worthwhile lives. We treasure the diversity of the Pacific and seek a future in which its cultures, traditions and religious beliefs are valued, honoured and developed. We see a Pacific region that is respected for the quality of its governance, the sustainable management of its resources, the full observance of democratic values, and for its defence and promotion of human rights. We seek partnerships with our neighbours and beyond to develop our knowledge, to improve our communications and to ensure a sustainable economic existence for all Organisation Context: Deputy Secretary General (SPC) Director Strategic Partnerships & Coordination Regional & International Issues Adviser Development Cooperation Adviser Natural Resources Adviser Social Policy Adviser Pacific Plan Executive Officer Programme Manager (PECF) MDG Adviser Regional Planning Adviser (Cairns Compact)

5 Key Result Areas: The position of encompasses the following major functions or Key Achievement Areas: Organisation of relevant CROP and Forum Ministers Meetings; Support regional and national resource management coordination, planning and reporting processes; Coordination and collaboration with regional stakeholders; Policy assistance and advice; and Manage staff as required The requirements in the above Key Result Areas are broadly identified overleaf. Key Result Areas: Jobholder is accountable for 1. Organisation of relevant CROP and Forum Ministers Meetings Commissions and/or writes necessary meeting papers Ensures that all necessary advance logistical arrangements are in place. Coordinate the implementation of regional resource management initiatives Jobholder is successful when Papers recognised as high quality and ready 6 weeks before meeting Advance logistical arrangements in place Implementation of regional milestones are on track 2. Support regional and national resource management coordination, planning and reporting process Coordinate and monitor the implementation of regional strategies on the environment and natural resources management Support country reporting and analysis to ensure that it aligns with regional reporting templates under the Cairns Compact Support, as requested, Member countries analytical review and selfassessment reports for the monitoring of countries performance and achievement under the Pacific Plan Country initiatives are running smoothly and meeting objectives Countries self-assessment process and analytical reviews completed and monitoring reports provided to the Secretariat Donor funding, development partner assistance and CROP agencies milestones achieved

6 Jobholder is accountable for Jobholder is successful when 3. Coordination and collaboration with regional stakeholders Influence the development and evolution of the approach to integrating the Cairns Compact regionally; make substantive contributions to the design and implementation of resource management planning and reporting process to align it with current reporting requirements Take the lead in establishing partnerships with other experts and stakeholders (e.g. governments, CROP agencies, research institutes, planning and policy advisers, NGOs, and the private sector) to reinforce effective coordination of regional national resources Work with Consultants contracted to advise member countries on resource management and national planning and analysis processes Meetings of host countries, resource planners, policy advisers and working groups held and minutes produced within two weeks Ongoing contact with range of stakeholders including CROP, Host country representatives and key donors Represent at relevant meetings and report regularly to management Takes over the management and administration of the Resource Management portfolio 4. Policy assistance and advice Provide briefings as required Produce papers for Forum meetings Respond to requests from members on range of policy issues as required Assist members at regional and international meetings Integrate resource management processes into the work of other parts of the Forum Secretariat such as trade, infrastructure and security Where appropriate lead the development of a research and planning agenda, oversee the analysis of country reports and analyse key trends and changes in socio-economic policy and regional planning measures and related issues. Production of quality briefs in timely manner Quality papers for Forum meetings produced to meet required timelines Timely responses to members queries delivered Evidence of work with other sections of the Forum Secretariat Analytical reports, research papers and documents produced Evidence of collaborative behaviours

7 Jobholder is accountable for Jobholder is successful when 5. Manage staff as required Lead and direct relevant staff; plan and allocate work assignments; coach, mentor and evaluate staff; participate in recruitment, selection and training of new staff and in the development of training programmes Participate in staff meetings and other meetings as required Staff successfully meet requirements of their job descriptions Attends staff and meetings Note The above performance standards are provided as a guide only. The precise performance measures for this position will need further discussion between the jobholder and manager as part of the performance development process. Work Complexity: Key R Most challenging duties typically undertaken: Coordination and analysis of inputs from a range of stakeholders in a timely manner; Making timely recommendations to ensure informed decision making; Managing conflicting priorities and diverse demands. Functional Relationship Skills: Key internal and/or external contacts Internal Secretary General (for ocean related matters) Deputy Secretary General Director Strategic Partnerships and Coordination Programme Other senior managers of the Secretariat Other Advisers and Secretariat Staff National Sustainable Development focal points Pacific Climate Change Roundtable Nature of the contact most typical Presenting on work of ; providing professional advice, input and analysis; advocating for the Pacific Plan and the contribution of effective resource management to regional development Responding to and reporting on other regional and international commitments such as the Millennium Development Goals, MEAs, GEF, EDF, MSI etc

8 Key internal and/or external contacts External Environment, Economic and Finance Ministers and senior officials Pacific Plan Action Committee CROP partners and In-country Counterparts Development Partners (Ausaid and NZaid, ADB, World Bank and CSOs etc.) Nature of the contact most typical Giving / receiving information, explaining things, advising, gaining co-operation, facilitating, influencing and persuading, resolving minor conflicts, mediating, negotiating, supervising, leading. Level of Delegation: The jobholder: has authority to approve expenses/costs has authority to sign standard letters Person Specification: This section is designed to capture the expertise required for the role at the 100% fully effective level. (This does not necessarily reflect what the current jobholder has.) This may be a combination of knowledge / experience, qualifications or equivalent level of learning through experience or key skills, attributes or job specific competencies. Qualifications Essential An advanced university degree (Masters degree or equivalent) in resource management, policy planning and analysis, development studies, marine studies, humanities or a related field. Desirable Up to 10 years experience working within the natural resource sector in the region Demonstrated evidence of skills and experience working within the national sustainability sector in the Pacific Knowledge / Experience Essential: Advanced technical qualifications, including authoritative knowledge and wide exposure to the full range of issues related to regional development and national and regional planning processes; Desirable: Experience in developing, designing and implementing project plans that addresses Forum Leaders and Ministerial decisions.

9 Essential: Ability to provide technical and policy advice and assistance on developmental assistance, and planning and alignment issues to Member State officials, regional and other organisations; Ability to thoroughly analyse and evaluate critical matters pertaining to a broad spectrum of developmental issues Ability to influence the development and evolution of the approach to resource management aligned to the Cairns Compact processes Able to make substantive contributions to the design and implementation of significant programme changes to address country, and regional resource management and sustainability concerns A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in national and regional development, policy analysis, or economic research. Experience in developing broad networks and relationships across a diverse range of individuals and cultural groups, and in assessing the development needs of members countries is desirable Experience with national government planning and policy agencies is essential and intergovernmental bodies or other international or regional organisations is desirable Excellent written and spoken English Ability to present at a wide range of meetings and events with confidence Desirable: Experience in developing, designing and implementing project plans that addresses Forum Leaders and Ministerial decisions Experience in marine and/or ocean policy development Demonstrated experience in collaborative management Experience in regional climate, environment and cross cutting development issues Demonstrated experience in working with multi partners and CROP agencies Able to work collaboratively across a wide range of sectors and teams Able to understand and work objectively with a diverse range of people and cultures within the Pacific region Experience in working with national governments and senior regional officials Key Skills /Attributes / Job Specific Competencies The following levels would typically be expected for the 100% fully effective level:

10 Expert level Aptitude for the provision of high quality service; Excellent personal leadership; Excellent oral and written communication skills. Advanced level Negotiation skills; Vision, Initiative and Direction; Working Knowledge A high level of interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity; Ability to set priorities successfully; Commitment to continuous improvement; Awareness Ability to work well with Leaders and members; Key Behaviours All employees are measured against the following Key Behaviours as part of Performance Development: Demonstrating Personal Accountability Applying Expertise Working Together Creating Value for Customers Communicating Effectively Building Excellence Providing Leadership (Management Competency) Coaching for Performance (Management Competency) Personal Attributes Commitment to Continuous Learning: Willingness to keep abreast of new developmental initiatives and policies and best practice models of development including a willingness to learn from others Leadership: Demonstrated ability to provide leadership and take responsibility for managing self and others while managing heavy workloads; commitment to the goals and vision of the excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to operate effectively across organisational boundaries and with a wide and diverse range of people and agencies; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for differences. Seasoned management and decision-making experience; proven track record of building and managing teams and creating an enabling work environment, including ability to effectively lead, supervise, mentor, develop and evaluate staff and design training/skills enhancement initiatives to ensure effective transfer of knowledge/skills Physically fit The ability to lead and motivate a team Clear and effective communicator Ability to think on and off your feet Ability to sum up the situation and make decisions quickly if required.

11 Change to Job Description: From time to time it may be necessary to consider changes in the job description in response to the changing nature of our work environment including technological requirements or statutory changes. This Job Description may be reviewed as part of the preparation for performance planning for the annual performance cycle. C. REMUNERATION INFORMATION The Forum Secretariat is part of the participating CROP agencies that have agreed through their governing councils to standardise employment conditions. Outlined in this section are the conditions, benefits & entitlements that accrue to the position of Natural Resources Adviser and the principles these conditions are based on. Contract Term Principle: To ensure recruitment and retention of the best person for the position Practice: The successful candidate will be entitled to a contract term of three years subject to a satisfactory medical examination and performance during a six-month probation period. On completion of three years at the Secretariat, a contract may be renewed based on performance, funding, the need for the position, and the six (6) years rule. Working hours Principle: To ensure that the minimum legal standard is met. Practice: Normal working hours are 37 hours per week with the official office hours being: Monday Thursday: 8:30am 5:00pm Friday: 8:30am 4:30pm. Salary Principle: To ensure relative worth of similar positions across CROP agencies is maintained and consistent with the market, a sample of positions across participating CROP agencies are validated and sized to ensure equivalent salaries are paid for equivalent jobs. Salaries for all Secretariat positions that are advertised internationally, are assessed annually compared to the reference markets which are the median of the Australian and New Zealand Public Service Sectors and the Fiji All Organisations market. Practice: This position is placed at Band 11, is denominated in Special Drawing Rights (SDR) and paid in Fiji Dollars according to the average SDR/Fiji exchange rate for the preceding month. The salary will be in the range of SDR33,359 to SDR50,039 per annum. At the 1 exchange rate this salary range was equivalent to FJD95,067 to FJD142,602.

12 Superannuation Principle: To provide the minimum legal requirement of the host country. Practice: This entitlement amounts to 8% of salary, paid as a cash supplement to salary or to a nominated superannuation fund. For Fiji citizens this will be paid to the Fiji National Provident Fund. Housing Principle: To ensure that staff have access to a reasonable standard of housing appropriate to their position. Practice: Rental assistance equating to 75% of suitable standard accommodation is paid to incumbents of positions that have been advertised internationally. Maximum rates are reviewed annually. The maximum rental assistance payable is FJD2,625 per month or FJD 31,500 per annum. Education Principle: To enable staff to have their dependent children educated to a recognised and acceptable standard. Practice: 75% of actual costs of fees for tuition, board and sanctioned tutorials are reimbursed up to a maximum of FJD17,802 per child per annum and up to a maximum of FJD53,406 per family per annum. Recruitment & Repatriation Entitlements Principle: To meet costs of travel, accommodation and for moving personal effects of staff and dependants to enable a move to the base station on recruitment and back to recognised home on repatriation. Practice: Airfares, packing and removal costs for staff, spouse and dependent children between point of recruitment and Suva will be facilitated and paid by the Secretariat. Hotel accommodation for 6 working days is provided for staff on arrival and on repatriation. Reasonable removal expenses (packing, insuring, shipping and unpacking) from place of recruitment and on end of contract. A 20 foot container is the family entitlement for this purpose. Establishment Grant Principle: To assist with settling in expenses. Practice: A grant equivalent to SDR 2,500 will be given to staff recruited from outside the greater Suva area. Health/Life Insurance Principle: To provide standard health insurance. Practice: Health insurance covering local medical consultation, pharmaceutical benefits and overseas medical treatment (subject to certain conditions) and term life insurance equivalent to three times the base salary is provided for staff.

13 Annual Leave Principle: To provide for recuperation and recreation. Practice: The entitlement for annual leave is 25 working days per annum. Sick Leave Principle: To provide for leave for illness or accident. Practice: The allocation for sick leave is 21 days per annum. School Holiday Travel Principle: To enable parent-child reunion. Practice: One economy class return airfare per annum for a dependent child to visit their parent at the base station or one economy class return air fare for a staff member or spouse to visit their dependent child studying overseas. Home Leave Travel Principle: To enable staff to maintain contact with their home environment. Practice: After having completed 18 months service, expatriate staff members are entitled to home leave airfares provided they return for the remaining time of their contracts. The entitlement is for reimbursement of one economy class return flight between Suva and the place of normal residence for the staff member, spouse and dependent children. Repatriation Grant Principle: To assist staff from outside the base station settle back in their home location. Practice: A grant equivalent to SDR 2,500 will be given on repatriation. Tax Status Principle: To meet the minimum legal requirements as agreed through the Establishment Agreement between the organisation and the host government. Practice: Remuneration is taxable for Fiji nationals and may be tax-free in Fiji for non-fiji nationals. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check the tax status of Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat salary in their relevant country. Other Benefits Other benefits include family leave, maternity leave and special leave at the Secretary General s discretion.

14 D. ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION The closing date for applicants is 13 December Applications should contain full information on education and career background. Applicants must also provide the names, addresses (postal & ), fax and telephone numbers of three employment referees. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through our website: where an information package containing the job description and remuneration details is also available. General Information on the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat is available on the website.