Operational Data Management Officer

Hardship Level

E (most hardship)

Family Type

Non Family with Residential Location

Family Type

Non Family with Residential Location

Residential location (if applicable)

Accra, Ghana

Grade

PR3

Staff Member / Affiliate Type

Professional

Reason

Regular > Regular Assignment

Target Start Date

2025-06-11

Deadline for Applications

July 3, 2025

Standard Job Description

Operational Data Management Officer

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The UNHCR Data Transformation Strategy 2020-2025 envisions that by 2025 UNHCR becomes a trusted leader on data and information related to refugees and other forcibly displaced and stateless persons, thereby enabling actions to protect and to empower forcibly displaced and stateless persons. The Strategy stipulates investing in four complementary priority areas: data management and governance; information systems; capacities and skill development; and culture for evidence-informed decision-making. The strategy envisages data and information management functions in UNHCR carried out in a complementary and inter-linked manner between Headquarters Divisions and Services, Regional Bureaux, country operations and key external partners, including forcibly displaced and stateless persons.

An important element is the establishment of Data, Identity Management and Analysis (DIMA) units in all Regional Bureaux and potentially corresponding units in country operation, led by a senior staff to ensure that UNHCR has a capacity to produce, in line with global standards, quality data, information products, conduct region-level analysis, guide registration and identity management, and advise on responsible and effective data use at country- and regional-levels.

Operational data includes the following: population and demographic statistics, case management information, assessment results, situational analysis, protection incidents, vulnerability and risks, and programme response plans, delivery and implementation. It will be both sectoral data and inter- and intra-sectoral data. Systems that manage operational data include registration systems, sectoral monitoring systems, protection and programme monitoring systems, biometrics and identity management systems, case management systems and other data management approaches such as profiling and household surveys that manage the types of data defined above.

The Operational Data Management Officer (ODMO) is responsible for supporting the operational data systems and activities that fall under the responsibility of the respective country, regional or global entities. S/He functions under the supervision of the DIMA Coordinator/Senior Information Management Officer /Senior Registration and Identity Management Officer or as delegated. The ODMO liaises closely with the relevant technical units at the country, region or headquarters level for technical guidance on data and application management. The ODMO is closely collaborating with the headquarters technical division responsible for information systems and technology to ensure that global standards relating to operational data systems, including systems that process personal data of the forcibly displaced and stateless persons, meet the UNHCR global standards, including data security.

The Operational Data Management Officer supports data-related activities conducted in the core applications, whether conducted by UNHCR, partners or Governments. The incumbent will provide high-quality, user-focused support services to UNHCR field operations and partners, in line with agreed standards and objectives. S/he also supports and implements provision of user access to systems and applications in accordance with data protection protocols. In addition, the ODMO also supports the monitoring of the quality of data collection in close collaboration with the relevant units and ensures that data inconsistencies are identified and resolved. The incumbent supports building reports, templates and forms out of the operational data systems, including refugee registration and case management systems. S/he also ensures that operational user feedback is recorded and analysed to ensure the relevant applications remain fit-for-purpose.

As delegated, the Operational Data Management Officer coordinates closely with information management, registration and other functions in the field, relevant sector leads, the Regional Bureau and relevant divisions in headquarters to promote regional and global consistency in operational data management, including registration, population data and personal data. The incumbent may closely work with partners, including Government users of UNHCR applications. S/he requires extensive experience and understanding of data systems, including database management and production of reports and other products.

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 frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties
- Manage and oversee the use, maintenance and technical support of core operational data applications, including systems that manage refugee registration and identity management, including overseeing the quality of data collection and ensuring consistency with standards and guidelines.
- Perform database administrator functions in relation to local field server machines that contain operational data, and refugee and other forcibly displaced and stateless persons data.
- Respond and manage user access permissions for UNHCR staff, local government and NGO partners to global applications in accordance with the policies and standards, including the Data Protection Policy and regional or local country data protection protocols.
- Design and develop standard reports, templates and forms, while ensuring consistency with global guidance and policies, and in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including business module owners.
- Identify, diagnose and escalate for the resolution of technical user errors, bugs and queries related to UNHCR core applications on forcibly displaced and stateless persons data and other operational data systems, in consultation with headquarters, external developers and support teams.
- Oversee capacity building and guidance of technical users and administrators, including provision of training materials and remote webinars and training session for technical staff related to data management, data query and report-building.
- Oversee and monitor user management and conduct regular clean-up of user accounts and access permissions in accordance with relevant guidance and procedures of the applications and systems under his/her responsibility.
- Oversee and monitor device and user management within local client and field server solutions, including monitoring frequency of data synchronization to prevent and mitigate data loss.
- Analyse and respond to user requests and queries, including compilation and assessment of applications enhancements and change requests.
- Assist with data quality assessment, data clean-up and data mapping from legacy or external database systems to the applications, as required.
- Conduct data collection audits as required.
- Conduct field testing of new functionalities within respective applications, as required.
- Support the design and strengthening of operational reports and statistics, including provision of training and user guidance.
- Support discussions and definitions of business requirements for interoperability of local tools and applications within the core applications, in consultation with business owners and relevant governance structures.
- Keep apprised of evolving technology and new business needs to support operational data management systems, including registration, identity and population data management in the country operations;
- Provide business analysis for operational needs.

- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications
Education & Professional Work Experience
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P3 - 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
Computer Science Information Technology Economics
Statistics Social Science or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
Not specified

Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Excellent computer skills, particularly in data management. Technical expertise in registration, operational data management and individual case management. Knowledge of SQL or Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Knowledge of UNHCR data standards and procedures.

Desirable
Previous experience in registration or individual case management, including use of UNHCR proGres and/or BIMS software. Completion of UNHCR learning programmes or specific training relevant to functions of the position.

Functional Skills
IT-IT Refugee Systems & Applications
DM-Data collection methodologies
DM-Data Management
DM-Database Design & Development
DM-Protection Data Management Systems
IT-Biometrics
IT-Business Analysis (BA)
DM-Data Collection and Analysis
TR-Training - Virtual and face to face
(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.

Desired Candidate Profile

The Operational Data Management Officer will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for DIMA in a complex humanitarian context. The ideal candidate must possess strong leadership skills to guide teams in data collection, validation, and reporting and have proven experience managing large-scale Protection Monitoring projects, such as P21. They will bring expertise in integrating data across multiple sectors and ensuring compliance with data protection standards. A background in Information Management as well as M&E and the ability to provide strategic insights to improve program effectiveness is essential. The successful candidate will also have experience in capacity building, training staff on data tools and methodologies. Excellent communication and collaboration skills are crucial for working with internal and external stakeholders. A strong ability to adapt to dynamic environments, maintain data security, and ensure the sustainability of data systems is key to success in this role.

Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):

French

,

,

Desired languages

,

,

Operational context

Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:

To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Nature of Position:

Niger continues to face significant challenges related to displacement, hosting a large number of refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and returnees, primarily from Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, and other neighboring countries. As the humanitarian situation evolves, the accurate and timely collection, analysis, and reporting of operational data is essential for effective program implementation and decision-making.

The Operational Data Management Officer will play a pivotal role in ensuring that operational data is systematically gathered, managed, and analyzed to support response efforts across various humanitarian sectors. Under the supervision of the Head of Operations, and in close collaboration with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team, sector leads, and field offices, the Operational Data Management Officer will be responsible for the following:

Oversee Data Collection and Validation: Lead the development and implementation of robust data collection systems to ensure accurate and consistent reporting across all sectors, including protection, health, education, and WASH. Ensure Data Quality and Accuracy: Implement data quality assurance mechanisms to validate and clean data, ensuring it meets operational standards and can be used effectively for decision-making. Support Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze operational data to provide actionable insights for program managers and senior leadership, generating timely and accurate reports for donors, stakeholders, and partners. Coordinate Data Integration: Work closely with program teams to integrate data from multiple sectors, ensuring that all aspects of humanitarian assistance are covered and reported comprehensively. Enhance Data Management Tools and Systems: Develop and maintain data management tools, dashboards, and databases to improve data accessibility, visualization, and reporting efficiency. Provide Technical Support: Offer technical guidance to field teams and partners on data collection methodologies, data management systems, and reporting tools to ensure alignment with organizational standards. Support Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Efforts: Collaborate with the M&E team to integrate data management with monitoring and evaluation activities, ensuring data-driven decision-making and improved program outcomes. Facilitate Data Sharing and Collaboration: Act as the point of contact for data-related inquiries, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with other UN agencies, NGOs, and humanitarian partners. Ensure Data Compliance and Security: Oversee compliance with data protection regulations and organizational policies, ensuring the confidentiality and security of sensitive information. Contribute to Knowledge Management and Best Practices: Identify, document, and share best practices in data management to enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian interventions and contribute to organizational learning.

The Operational Data Management Officer will play a critical role in ensuring that operational data is used efficiently to monitor, evaluate, and improve humanitarian interventions in Niger, supporting the country’s response to ongoing displacement challenges.

Lead the DIMA Team (Ops Data, IMO, MnE, Registration, P21)  in Niger. The duties of the incumbent will include:

Coordinate the development and implementation of data collection systems to ensure accurate and consistent reporting across all sectors.

Establish and enforce data validation protocols to ensure data quality and accuracy.

Analyze operational data to generate actionable insights and provide timely reports to stakeholders.

Integrate data from multiple sectors, ensuring comprehensive reporting across humanitarian response efforts.

Develop and maintain data management tools and dashboards to enhance data accessibility and reporting efficiency.

Provide technical guidance and training to field teams and partners on data collection methodologies and reporting tools.

Collaborate with the M&E team to ensure data-driven decision-making and program improvement.

Serve as the primary point of contact for data-related inquiries and facilitate data-sharing among stakeholders.

Ensure compliance with data protection regulations and organizational policies, maintaining data confidentiality and security.

Document and share best practices in data management to improve operational effectiveness and support organizational learning.

Living and Working Conditions:

Niamey is a non-family duty station (D classification) with 8-week R&R cycle in Accra (Ghana). There are a number of supermarkets where local and foreign goods are available and expatriates frequent a number of restaurants offering Turkish, Lebanese, Chinese, French, Italian and other foods. Very limited educational services are available. There is a UN Clinic with limited clinic materials and the Medical Section in Geneva after assessing the medical facilities has recommended two clinics safely accessible by UNHCR staff and family members. However, it`s very poor. Most of travels within the country are undertaken regularly through UNHAS flights and some of them are reachable by car. The accommodations with minimum standards are available in the field offices. There are several banks and ATM available in the capital but most of the time out of service and provided a limited amount to withdraw. There are 3 seasons in Niger: rainy (June-Sept), cool (Oct-Feb), and very hot (March-May). The communication by the mobile is acceptable. Housing conditions are becoming more difficult due to untimely power cuts, and the very high price of rent including advances of 3 to 4 months advance payment. The 2018 Finance law impacts the cost of most purchases.

Security Considerations: Security level is 3 in Niamey. Due to actual terrorist threat of kidnapping and armed attacks against convoy in south of Niamey Region, any mission should move under armed escorts between 8:00 to 17:00. Despite tension around its borders, with military operations taking place regularly, Niamey remains reasonably stable, due to criminality staff members are discouraged from walking in the streets, taking taxis, staying out late at night and visiting public places alone. Almost no red zone exists but in fact staffs should reside in a certain perimeter around the assembly or concentration point. Pertaining to civil unrest and disturbances, the situation can be volatile and unpredictable in Niamey. In addition, the public unrest, materialized by meeting/ marches, regular sit-ins and roadblocks has become recurring. Personal security arrangements are highly recommended over the security measures set up. In Niamey, there is neither curfew nor state of emergency measures, but there are authorized travel times, weekly radio control and security advisories broadcasts. Security Clearance is required and can be requested via TRIP at https://dss.un.org. Requests for clearance should be submitted 7 days prior travel.

Additional Qualifications

Skills

Education

Bachelor of Arts: Computer Science, Bachelor of Arts: Demography, Bachelor of Arts: Economics, Bachelor of Arts: Geography, Bachelor of Arts: Statistics

Certifications

Work Experience

Competencies

Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Teamwork & collaboration, Technological awareness

UNHCR Salary Calculator

https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales

Compendium

Bi-Annual 2025 Compendium - Part B

Additional Information

Functional clearance

This position doesn't require a functional clearance