Human Resources Management
Resume:
Sambou Traore
Chief Administrative Services
Germantown, Maryland, United States
***********@*****.***
SUMMARY
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Payroll Administrator in your company. With over 25 years of dedicated service at the United Nations, including significant experience in various peacekeeping missions and at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, I am excited to bring my expertise to your team. Throughout my career, I have played integral roles in diverse peacekeeping operations, most recently as the Chief of Operations Resources Management (CORM) in MINUSCA. In this capacity, I meticulously oversaw a wide range of administrative, financial, budgetary, logistical, and human resources management tasks, aligning them with UN financial rules and regulations. As the Chief of Mission Support in UNOCA, UNOCI, and OSESG-Burundi, I spearheaded complex financial operations, logistical coordination, and human resources management, contributing to the successful execution of mission goals.
My comprehensive experience extends across finance, budgeting, administration, human resource management, logistics, and general administration within UN missions, agencies, funds, and special political missions. Serving in challenging environments such as Sudan and Darfur for over a decade, I managed large budgets and led teams while cultivating positive working relationships among diverse professionals. My leadership in financial and budgetary matters has been exceptional, evidenced by my oversight of the largest United Nations Peacekeeping budget in UN history, totaling $2 billion annually.
My education in Economics, including a Master's degree from the University of Grenoble, has provided me with a strong analytical foundation. Additionally, I possess advanced skills in Microsoft packages and IT systems, facilitating effective communication and data management.
In my most recent roles among others, I actively contributed to the transition from UNSAS to IPSAS and played a pivotal role as the Umoja Site Coordinator, demonstrating my ability to adapt to new technologies and lead organizational change. My accomplishments also include optimizing financial processes, ensuring compliance with UN regulations, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to streamline operations. I am excited by the prospect of joining your company as Payroll Administrator position, and continuing my commitment to fostering efficiency, accountability, and success. My well-rounded skill set, proven leadership, and passion for the job make me a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Please feel free to contact me at 240-***-**** or ***********@*****.***.
Sincerely,
Sambou Traore (Mr) Retiree & Former Chief of Operations and Resource Management (CORM) (a.i.) & Senior Administrative Officer (SAO) MINUSCA Cell: 240-***-**** Email: ***********@*****.***
WORK EXPERIENCE
August 2020-February 2023
Senior Administrative officer (SAO) & Acting Chief of Operations & Resources Management (CORM)
United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Central Africa Republic (MINUSCA)
Bangui, Central African Republic
Description of Duties and Achievements: As acting Chief of Operations Resources Management and Senior Administrative Officer, I am in charge to directing and overseeing the strategic and cross-cutting mission support functions mainly Human Resources, Budget and Finance Management, Mission Support Centre with a view to ensuring coherence in forecasting, performance monitoring, planning, and coordination of mandated activities related to operational and resourcing activities. I am responsible for an effective resource allocation and utilization, monitoring budgets, ensuring appropriate financial and budget controls, reviewing resource allocations in accordance with strategic goals and outcomes by identifying opportunities to attract or leverage resources. I ensure an effective establishment of management Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and monitors achievement of results. I also ensure that internal control framework is in place and issue appropriate sub-delegation of authorities for respective Section chiefs under my immediate supervision. I also oversee and coordinate activities related to footprint, drawdown and transition of the mission in line with the Mission mandate. I provide leadership and strategic guidance, direction and oversight ensuring effective management of financial, human and physical resources • I lead and oversee the Human Resources Section
(HRS), Budget and Finance Section (BFS), Mission Support Centre (MSC) inclusive of Sector/Regional Offices responsible for effective execution of mission support strategy and associated support plan • I lead e the development, preparation, coordination and monitoring of strategies and work plans for Support Operations and Resource Management activities and takes the lead in securing the required human, financial, logistic and technological resources to achieve them • I provide guidance and direction for the planning and forecasting of the personnel, financial, logistic, contingent owned equipment, information and communication technology, requirements of all Mission components • I liaise with UNHQ offices to ensure mission planning and resource allocation is aligned with HQ priorities, guidance and policy. I take the lead in the development and implementation of special projects such as Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity, • I manage the mission's service desk operations providing regular management reports on service availability and performance • I monitor clients experience and advises on programs for continuous service improvement • Implements pilot projects and monitor, coordinate and reports on their progress • Ensure that all Operational Resources Management Unit/Section activities, are in compliance with the UN Environmental and Waste Management policies; coordinate with the mission's environmental officer for guidance as needed.
March 2020-August 2020
Chief of Mission Support
United Nations Mission in Burundi
Bujumbura, Burundi
Description of Duties and Achievements: As Chief of Mission Support I was responsible for performing the following duties: - Contributed to the implementation of the mission/office mandate by providing the necessary managerial, logistical / technical and administrative support required for the fulfillment of the mandate, including such areas as budget, finance, human resources management, logistics / supply chain management, communications, transport, air operations, etc. I Certified mission expenditures. - Advised the Head of Office on all matters pertaining to administrative and logistical support. - Planned, organized, implemented, managed and oversaw activities of all administrative and logistical /technical support operations. – I Provided effective management of human, financial and material resources of the mission. - Identified broad strategies required for the development and implementation of the mission support's work programme particularly, in the mission's readiness for the COVID19. Ensured alignment with the Organizational and Departmental strategic goals and directions .for the readiness against CoviD19- Ensured development, preparation, coordination and monitoring of overall work plans, strategies and programmes for the support activities of the mission and took the lead in securing the required human and financial resources for the mission. I recently reviewed the mission's Financial Agreement (FA) with UNOPS and found out a savings of $500,000 that can be made by terminating such agreement, which I successfully implemented- I Established a set of sound policies, procedures, practices, standards and tools that are consistent with UN regulations, rules, policies and practice in order to ensure proper budget, accounting, financial and human resources management and control. - I also liaised, negotiated and coordinated with national authorities with respect to administrative and logistical matters. -I ensured cooperation and integration of administrative and logistical resources with the substantive elements of the mission as required. - I provided guidance, support and supervision to senior administrative and logistics / technical support staff as well as audit and evaluation services, as appropriate. - Ensured the provision of guidance, performance evaluation, supervision and mentoring to all administrative & logistics/technical support and other staff in the areas of his/her responsibility. - Maintained good order and discipline of staff under my overall supervision. - I represented the mission before legislative bodies, providing information and clarification in support of budget proposals. - I represented the mission support component at meetings with the other member of the UN Country Team (UNCT) in the country., etc. I performed related duties as may be required by the Head of Mission, DPPA-DPO or DOS, e.g., and provided briefing to visiting senior officials on mission, administrative and technical support activities, etc. - Performed other related work as required
July 2017-March 2020
Senior Administrative Officer
United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Central Africa Republic (MINUSCA)
Bangui, Central African Republic
As the Mission Senior Administrative Officer, I was responsible for the following: • Act as the principal advisor to the Director of Mission Support (DMS), as well as other senior leadership of the Mission in administrative, logistical support and operations, and related matters. Provide authoritative advice, adaptations and corrective actions in response to audit and other queries to ensure adherence to the United Nations Financial Regulations and Rules, Staff Rules, Administrative Instructions, Bulletins and Circulars. Ensure full implementation of UN Financial Regulations and Rules and other instructions and Information Circular are adhered to and approved/amended by the DMS. Ensure proper administrative stewardship of the Mission in assisting and supporting the DMS and D/DMS in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing and overseeing of activities pertaining to human resources, budgeting, financial, logistic support and general administration.• I make sure that the development, preparation, coordination and monitoring of work plans, strategies and programmes for the administrative activities of the Mission and/or the area of responsibility of the regional office and I take the lead in securing the required human, financial and logistical resources are achieved. • In cooperation with other offices of the Mission, I plan and forecast the personnel, financial and logistical requirements of the entire MINUSCA mission components. I make sure that the DMS or the D/DMS has full budgetary and administrative control. • I draft guidelines, Information Circulars reports and correspondence on a wide range of issues for the DMS or D/DMS as requested, and ensure that all relevant UN rules and regulations are adhered to. • I Draft responses to correspondence required from the DMS or DDMS on administrative/policy documents. • I take the lead on the development and implementation of special projects, such as Security/Evacuation Plan, Welfare Activities, etc, as requested, I Undertake the evaluation of the support provided by the Mission Support Division to the various clients and/or partners and lead the costs recoveries from UN agencies, embassies and other entities for supports provided by the mission on costs reimbursable basis. • I assist the DMS and/or DDMS in the supervision of Security operations and Air Safety matters in the Mission or Area of Responsibility. •.
March 2017-July 2017
Chief Administrative Services
United Nations Mission in Cote D'Ivoire (ONUCI)
Abidjan, Ivory Coast
Description of Duties and Achievements: As Chief Administrative Services (CAS), I am responsible for the following: • Assisting and supporting the Chief of Mission Support (CMS) in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing and overseeing of activities pertaining to human resources, Procurement, budgeting, financial, logistic support and general administration as well as the full implementation of the liquidation plan of ONUCI• I make sure that the development, preparation, coordination and monitoring of work plans, strategies and programmes for the administrative activities of the Mission and I take the lead in securing the required human, financial, procurement and sales of assets, and logistical resources are achieved. • In cooperation with other offices, I plan and forecast the personnel, financial and logistical requirements of the entire drawdown of ONUCI mission components. I make sure that the CMS has full visibility on budgetary and administrative process. • I draft guidelines, Information Circulars reports and correspondence on a wide range of issues of the liquidation process for the CMS as requested, and ensure that all relevant UN rules and regulations are adhered to. • I Draft responses to correspondence required from the CMS on administrative/policy documents. • I take the lead on the development and implementation of special projects, such as Security/Evacuation Plan, Welfare Activities, etc,. • I Undertake the evaluation of the support provided by the Mission Support Division to the various clients and/or partners. • I liaise with the Offices of the SRSG and Deputy SRSG as well as Chiefs of Services and Sections on administrative issues/activities, or their Regional Representatives, as applicable. • I liaise with local authorities, mission stakeholders, and UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes or other parties on behalf of the CMS. • I maintain direct liaison, as applicable, with the Resident and External Auditors. • I review, as applicable, all audit observations submitted and drafts appropriate responses in consultation with the CMS. • I monitor implementation of partners/Board of Inquiry recommendations. • I represent the CMS in various standing or Regional Boards and Committees, such as Property Survey Board (PSB), Claims Review Board (CRB), and may act as alternate Chairperson of the Local Committee on Contracts.
July 2015-March 2017
Senior Administrative Officer
United Nations Mission in Central Africa Republic (MINUSCA)
Bangui, Central African Republic
Description of Duties and Achievements: As the Mission Senior Administrative Officer, I am responsible for the following: • Assisting and supporting the DMS and DDMS in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing and overseeing of activities pertaining to human resources, budgeting, financial, logistic support and general administration.• I make sure that the development, preparation, coordination and monitoring of work plans, strategies and programmes for the administrative activities of the Mission and/or the area of responsibility of the regional office and I take the lead in securing the required human, financial and logistical resources are achieved. • In cooperation with other offices of the Mission, I plan and forecast the personnel, financial and logistical requirements of the entire MINUSCA mission components. I make sure that the DMS or the D/DMS has full budgetary and administrative control. • I draft guidelines, Information Circulars reports and correspondence on a wide range of issues for the DMS or D/DMS as requested, and ensure that all relevant UN rules and regulations are adhered to. • I Draft responses to correspondence required from the DMS or DDMS on administrative/policy documents. • I take the lead on the development and implementation of special projects, such as Security/Evacuation Plan, Welfare Activities, etc, as requested. • I Undertake the evaluation of the support provided by the Mission Support Division to the various clients and/or partners and lead the costs recoveries from UN agencies, embassies and other entities for supports provided by the mission on costs reimbursable basis. • I assist the DMS and/or DDMS in the supervision of Security operations and Air Safety matters in the Mission or Area of Responsibility. • I liaise with the Offices of the Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) and Deputies SRSG, as well as the Force Commander and Chiefs of Services and Sections on administrative issues/activities, or their Regional Representatives, as applicable. • I liaise with local authorities, mission stakeholders, and UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes or other parties on behalf of the DMS. • I maintain direct liaison, as applicable, with the Resident and External Auditors. • I review, as applicable, all audit observations submitted and drafts appropriate responses in consultation with the Director of Mission Support. • I monitor implementation of partners/Board of Inquiry recommendations. • I represent the DMS in various standing or Regional Boards and Committees, such as Property Survey Board (PSB), Claims Review Board (CRB), and may act as alternate Chairperson of the Local Committee on Contracts.
September 2009-July 2015
Acting Chief of Finance & Budget/Senior Program Officer
United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID)
El Fasher, Sudan
As Senior Program Officer and Acting Chief Finance Officer, I am responsible for the following duties: Act as the principal advisor to CAS as well as other senior leadership of the Mission in finance operations, account keeping, and related matters. Provide authoritative advice, financial interpretations, adaptations and corrective actions in response to audit and other queries to ensure adherence to the United Nations Financial Regulations and Rules, Staff Rules, Administrative Instructions, Bulletins and Circulars. Ensure full implementation of UN Financial Regulations and Rules and other instructions. Ensure proper financial stewardship and administration of the Mission. Ensure that accurate and complete accounting, reporting and internal control systems are functioning and that all relevant records are maintained. Coordinate with UNHQ, the Trust funds management from preparing the cost plan to the issuance of allotment by the Controller's Office. Exercise delegated authority from the Assistant Secretary-General, the UN Controller, with respect to approving Mission's disbursements and obligations and maintaining both the accounts (PK funds and Trust funds). Perform duties as Approving Officer and ensure that expenditure, obligations and disbursements are approved and released correctly and on time, in accordance with the certified documents establishing the obligations. UNAMID IPSAS Focal point and Umoja Site Coordinator In addition to actively driving and lead the mission readiness and conversion from UNSAS to IPSAS, I also lead the Umoja readiness plan and execution of site readiness activities to ensure timely completion; support UNAMID in driving the change management activities such as impact assessment, aligning 'To-Be' roles with organizational structure in collaboration with Umoja change management in UNHQ. Participate in user testing and review user validation test plan. Manage data conversion plan and ensure timely data collection, enrichment and conversion. Develop and key performance indicators to support global information management reporting requirements. In addition to my function as Acting Chief of Finance and Budget Section, I am also the mission IPSAS focal point as well as the Umoja Site Coordinator reporting directly to the Umoja Project manager (the DMS) and to the Umoja Hub deployment lead and deployment coordinator at the local office and UN entity. I actively participate in cross missions activities such as the establishment of the Regional service Center in Entebbe (RSCE), the workshop on IPSAS implementation and Umoja activities. On daily basis made several recommendations to the chief Administrative Service and the Director of Mission Support on financial policies in accordance with United Nations financial regulations and rules. I have established a strong relations and liaison with the RSCE Service Lines Managers, Accounts Division and the office of Field Budget and Finance Division (FBFD) in UNHQ on matters related to mission financial and budgetary issues. Also, as the mission focal point for IPSAS and Umoja Site Coordinator, I have a strong working relationship with both DFS IPSAS team and the UNHQ Umoja-deployment team.. .Coordinate the mission's financial processes with RSCE Service Lines Managers. In addition to actively driving and lead the mission readiness and conversion from UNSAS to IPSAS, I also lead the Umoja readiness plan and execution of site readiness activities to ensure timely completion; support UNAMID in driving the change management activities such as impact assessment, aligning 'To-Be' roles with organizational structure in collaboration with Umoja change management in UNHQ. Participate in user testing and review user validation test plan. Manage data conversion plan and ensure timely data collection, enrichment and conversion. Develop and key performance indicators to support global information management reporting requirements.
October 2005-September 2009
Finance Officer, Chief Payroll and Vendors Units
United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS)
Khartoum, Sudan
As the Chief of the Payroll and Payments Units within the Finance Section, I am responsible for the comprehensive management, supervision, review, monitoring, and approval of all payroll processing and payment activities. This entails overseeing compensation for a diverse workforce of more than 5,500 individuals, including military officers, military observers, civilian police monitors, international and national staff members, and personnel from other UN agencies operating within Sudan.
Additionally, I play a pivotal role in authorizing the final payments for departing staff members on a monthly basis. This involves meticulously addressing inquiries arising from each unique case. As an active member of the UNMIS Local Contracts Committee (LCC), I have been instrumental in the selection and establishment of the UNAMID Finance Section. During my tenure, I have effectively stepped in as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of Finance in the absence of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This role has demanded strong leadership and decision-making skills to ensure the continuity and accuracy of financial operations.
One of my key responsibilities is coordinating the payment of invoices for both international and local vendors, amounting to an impressive sum of over $25 million per month. Simultaneously, I oversee the F10 processing for the entire staff, encompassing all categories within the mission. Despite the challenges posed by a limited banking system in Sudan, I am proud to have consistently ensured timely salary disbursements, reflecting my commitment to maintaining financial stability and employee satisfaction.
October 2003-October 2005
Accountant & Finance Officer
United Nations Headquarters
New York, New York, United States
Responsibilities and Achievements:In my role, I am tasked with a range of pivotal responsibilities that contribute to the efficient management of field missions and the well-being of staff members. These duties include: 1.Payroll and Benefits Oversight: I meticulously review and authorize the payroll for field missions, ensuring accurate calculation and timely distribution of salaries, salaries advances, education grants, and repatriation grants. This extends to final payments and any other related benefits for staff members stationed outside the UN Headquarters. 2.Staff Support: I play a key role in facilitating the financial needs of staff members in field missions and special assignments by approving salaries advances requests, enabling them to access necessary resources promptly. 3.Contractor Payroll: Within the UNHQ, I am responsible for approving the payroll of short-term contractors, including diverse roles such as tour guides, UNPA members, language teachers, and more. This ensures fair compensation for their contributions.
4.Accounts Management: I review and manage payroll accounts receivables associated with staff members, initiating appropriate actions for recoveries and adjustments where necessary. This meticulous approach aids in maintaining financial accuracy and accountability.
5.Repatriation Grants: I undertake the critical task of reviewing outstanding repatriation grants pertaining to former, retired, or separated staff members. This includes assessing the eligibility of individuals for such grants and overseeing the necessary processes.
Throughout my tenure, I have consistently demonstrated attention to detail, adherence to established procedures, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the financial well-being of staff members and the organization as a whole. I am confident that my proactive approach to financial oversight and benefits administration has positively impacted the operational efficiency and employee satisfaction within the organization.
July 2000-October 2003
Chief of DPKO Liquidation Team
United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO)
New York, New York, United States
Summary of Responsibilities and Accomplishments: During my tenure as the Chief of the Liquidation Unit within the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), I assumed a leadership role marked by effective management and notable achievements. My responsibilities encompassed a diverse range of tasks, including: 1.Personnel Management and Mission Closure: As head of the Liquidation Unit, I successfully managed and provided supervision to the unit's staff. I orchestrated the coordinated closure of missions, ensuring the efficient conclusion of their operations.
2.Financial Oversight: I meticulously reviewed, monitored, and authorized adjustment journal entries and payment requests for former staff members, civilian police monitors, and military observers. Additionally, I directed efforts to collect outstanding funds owed to the organization.
3.Claims and Financial Statements: I undertook the review of Claims of Entitlements (COE), Letters of Assist (LOA), and Death and Disability (D&D) claims from Troop Contributing Countries (TCC). I ensured funds availability prior to certification and payment by the Programme Planning and Budget Division (PFD). Furthermore, I oversaw the timely completion of monthly, semi-monthly, and year-end closing processes for all 12 missions, while also approving the corresponding financial statements.
4.Financial Performance and Reporting: In collaboration with the UN Treasury, I played a crucial role in the proper closure of bank accounts. I meticulously prepared final financial performance reports and assets disposition reports for submission to the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ) and the Fifth Committee(FITH). Moreover, I was responsible for preparing write-off and accounting adjustments for the Controller's review, adhering to UN financial regulations.
5.Mission Closure Milestones: Upon assuming leadership of the Liquidation Unit on July 16, 2001, I faced the challenge of overseeing 12 outstanding missions undergoing liquidation. Through proactive and dedicated efforts over two years, I successfully led the closure of 10 missions. The remaining missions were eventually concluded and transitioned to the Accounts Division by September 30, 2003.
Reason for Departure:
My departure from this role was due to job security concerns. I occupied a fixed-term mission replacement position, which prompted my decision to seek alternative opportunities. The remarkable progress achieved under my leadership stands as a testament to my commitment, proactive approach, and dedication to operational excellence within the realm of peacekeeping operations.
August 1998-July 2000
Chief of Payroll & Vendors Unit
United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Bosnia & Herzegovina (UNMIBH)
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Description of Responsibilities and Accomplishments: In my capacity as the Chief of the Payroll Unit within the Finance Department, I undertook a pivotal role encompassing a wide spectrum of responsibilities and achievements: 1.Staff Management and Payroll Oversight: Leading the Payroll Unit, I assumed responsibility for the efficient management and supervision of the staff. I meticulously reviewed, monitored, and granted approval for all payroll processing and payment procedures concerning over 3,500 employees. This included a diverse workforce comprising military personnel, civilian police monitors, international and local staff, as well as personnel from other UN agencies operating in the Balkans.
2.Outgoing Staff Payments: I played a critical role in the monthly processing and final payment execution for more than 300 outgoing staff members. Furthermore, I deftly addressed various inquiries arising from each individual case, ensuring a seamless transition for departing employees.
3.Leadership in CFO's Absence: During the CFO's absence, I assumed the responsibility of representing their role. This included active participation in local property survey board meetings, where I facilitated the review process and subsequently submitted recommendations to the New York Headquarters Property Survey Board (HPSB) for approval. 4.Payments Unit Leadership: As Chief of the Payments Unit, I upheld strict adherence to UN financial rules and regulations. My role included overseeing the punctual settlement of payments for both international and local vendors, as well as staff members, for all non-payroll claims. The rigorous adherence to deadlines was a hallmark of my tenure. 5.Timely and Accurate Payments: My tenure was marked by the consistent and on-time
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