JOB DESCRIPTION

OBJECTIVES OF THE POST

To assist the Director of Transport and Natural Disasters in those activities designed to achieve the goals and objectives of the ACS and whose nature requires the application of tertiary level knowledge as well as the analysis and planning ability for conceiving and developing plans, programs and projects. Under the general guidance of the Director, the holder of this position will serve as an Assistant Professional responsible for matters concerning natural disasters, and transport. The duties include coordination of agendas and work programs in the mentioned areas. When necessary, the individual shall represent the Secretariat of the ACS at meetings hosted by the organization and at other meetings and conferences related to ACS matters.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

General Functions :

• Apply knowledge, principles and techniques of an academic nature to the areas of transport and natural disasters;
• Propose the design and formulation of procedures and systems which facilitate improved performance of the functions of the Association, with a view to optimising the use of available resources;
• Advise the Director on all matters related to transport and natural disasters and support initiatives aimed at achieving the objectives and mandates of the Association;
• Analyse, make projections and recommend action to be taken in order to achieve the objectives and functions of the Directorate;
• Assist in the preparation of strategies for implementation in area of natural disasters and transport. ;
• Offer advice when requested by senior officers;
• Study, evaluate and conceptualise issues in his/her area of competence;
• Act as a resource person on issues in his/her area of competence in accordance with the programmes and projects of the Directorate;
• Draft and prepare reports on activities undertaken, identifying timeframes and frequency required;
• Facilitate improved performance of the functions of the Association and the optimal use of its resources in the areas of transport and natural disasters;
• Perform any other duties assigned, in accordance with the specific characteristics and expertise of the holder of the post.

• Co-ordinate timely and accurate submission of working documents to countries attending ACS meetings that fall under his/her purview as well as document the outcomes of these meetings.
• Support the functions of the Special Committees on Transport and Natural Disasters including drafting and circulation of reports on the activities of the Committees.
• Draft agenda for working meetings in areas of his/her competence.
• Co-ordinate all aspects of working meetings including the preparation and circulation of working documents, liaison with the country representatives and focal points in the area of natural disasters and transport and preparation of reports on the outcomes of these meetings.
• Draft reports on the activities of the Committees.
• Manage all aspects of projects undertaken by Transport and Natural Disasters Directorate, including the financial, technical and logistical requirements.
• Conceptualize projects profiles and prepare proposals for submission to the Special Fund and other donors.
• Conduct evaluations of the projects submitted to the Special Fund and verify that these satisfy all the necessary criteria for their submission to the Council of Representatives.
• Assist in evaluating the submissions from consultants in response to ‘Calls for Proposals and support the work of the consultants engaged by the ACS.
• Support the activities of consultants, as well as conduct work in support of studies undertaken.
• Act as the liaison between the ACS and functionaries at regional and international organisations in the areas of natural disasters and transport. Collaborate as assigned on the projects and programmes undertaken by these organisations.
• Study, evaluate and offer opinions on studies, projects and programmes undertaken by other regional organisations.
• Offer advice and establish direct linkages with focal points in the areas of transport and natural disasters, providing them with guidelines for the preparation of their work in respect of the fulfilment of the objectives and mandates established by the Ministerial Council.
• Co-ordinate and monitor the compilation of data, and statistical information on his areas of competency.
• Conduct the research required to support the work of the Directorate.
• Prepare and organise training courses (for the public and private sectors) in collaboration with other regional organisations, when these tasks have been assigned to the Secretariat.
• Maintain a database of statistical information for countries and design its format for the ACS web page.
• Conduct searches and information updates on the web page.
• Offer advice and participate in the organisation and preparation of seminars organised by the Secretariat in collaboration with other regional and international organisations.
• Draft and submit reports on official trips made.
• Attend meetings of the International Staff.
• Perform other duties if assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Minimum qualifications :

• Post Graduate University qualifications from an accredited institution in the fields related to Transport or Natural Disasters, with specialization in Management, Administration or Policy Development.
• Minimum of 5 years professional/international experience in the multidisciplinary transport and natural disasters fields.
• Experience in project management is essential
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in one of the official languages of the ACS. Must be fluent in a second official language of the ACS and possess certificates attesting to proficiency in this language. A working knowledge of a third language will be considered an asset.
• Knowledge of the Member States of the ACS.
• Diplomatic experience and a high level of political acumen will be considered an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to use a wide range of computer software including MS Office Suite (Microsoft word, Excel, Spreadsheet, Power point), and project management software as well as proficiency in the use of the internet.
• Persons in this position should possess excellent Public Relations and interpersonal skills as well as advanced skills in problem solving, multitasking and time management.

Additional Comments : (in the performance of responsibilities)

• The officer should possess the initiative to establish contact and harmonious work relationships with different levels of the internal administration of the Secretariat, colleagues and subordinates.
• As well, the individual must demonstrate leadership and other qualities for maintaining dialogue and good interpersonal and respectful relations with Liaison officials and institutions from Member States and Associated Members.
• He/she should be willing and available to fly out of the headquarters country on work missions.
• He/she should be willing to work beyond official regular hours if necessary.

REMUNERATION PACKAGE

This position is classified at the level equivalent to P-2 in the ACS salary scale. Further details pertaining to salary and working conditions can be obtained from the ACS Secretariat. Benefits include:

• Post adjustment allowance, airfare and shipping of personal effects upon appointment.
• Repatriation and displacement allowance upon expiration of the contract.
• Health insurance for the Professional and dependants.
• Participation in the ACS Staff Fund.

DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED

Candidates must present the following documents for consideration:

1. Curriculum vitae.
2. University degree certificate.
3. Language certificates (not in first language).
4. Names of three referees and contact information.

Notes:

Applications must be submitted to the Secretariat of the Association of Caribbean States, to the attention of:

Dr. Rubén Silié Valdez
Secretary General
The Association of Caribbean States
5-7 Sweet Briar Road, St. Clair
PO Box 660, Port of Spain
Trinidad and Tobago
Tel: (868) 622-9575
Fax: (868) 622-1653
E-mail: mail@acs-aec.org
Copy: Head of Budget and Administration
cflorez@acs-aec.org

The job description given above outlines the nature and level of the tasks normally assigned to this position. It does not constitute an exhaustive list of these tasks. Additional related duties may be assigned as necessary for the effective functioning of the Association.

Unsuitable applications will not be considered.