Organisational Ombuds and Mediator

Leadership
Other
6172

General Information

Type of contract Fixed-term contract, which may be extended subject to individual performance and organisational needs

Who can apply? EU nationals

Salary K full time monthly net salary: €11,579 plus benefits, for further information see what we offer.

Role specialisation Leadership

Working time Full time

Place of work Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Closing date 03.01.2023

Your team

You will lead the Mediation function, a new independent organisational unit at the European Central Bank (ECB). The unit has one additional staff member providing administrative support to the Mediator.

In your role as Mediator, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the newly created Mediation function.

You will be responsible for helping the ECB’s employees to address their work-related concerns and resolve conflicts. You will work closely with various stakeholders including Human Resources, the social counsellors and staff representatives. You will report directly to the President.

The ECB is an inclusive employer and we strive to reflect the diversity of the population we serve. We encourage you to apply irrespective of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or other characteristics.

Your role

As a Mediator you will:
  • provide alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services by exploring with staff the options and different avenues available to them, in the light of the interests, rights and obligations existing between the ECB and its employees;
  • resolve conflicts expeditiously and effectively through informal means such as coaching, shuttle diplomacy, facilitated discussions and mediation services;
  • encourage and contribute to developing a deeper understanding of conflict prevention, conflict management and conflict resolution, while exploring opportunities for preventive practices, all supported by effective communication and targeted training to staff;
  • identify and analyse systemic issues, trends and patterns relevant for the ECB as a whole and thus facilitate changes at the organisational level (policies, procedures, practices, structures, culture or attitude);
  • liaise as appropriate with other key stakeholders such as Human Resources, social counsellors or staff representative bodies; 
  • submit an annual report to the President on the activities of the Mediation function, that may include general recommendations for the ECB;
  • manage one administrative member of staff working for the Mediation function.

We are seeking a candidate for this role who has a proven track record and a successful working experience in a mediator/ombuds role, and who can demonstrate the required knowledge, skills and competencies and the potential for successfully shaping this function at the ECB.

The position gives you excellent opportunities to leverage your outstanding experience as a mediator/ombuds to build the Mediation function in a prestigious organisation. 

You will be part of a multicultural team that strives for continuous improvement to make a positive impact on the lives of European citizens.

Qualifications, experience and skills

Essential: 
  • a master’s degree or equivalent preferably in a field of relevance for ADR, such as human resources, organisational behaviour, psychology, counselling or other social sciences or in law  (click here for details on degree equivalences); 
  • proven mediation accreditation/or ombuds certification issued by an internationally recognised university, body or association;
  • in addition to the above, a minimum of ten years’ experience as a mediator/ombuds, preferably at an international organisation (e.g. a European institution, the IMF, the World Bank or the United Nations); 
  • extensive professional working experience, including various roles and responsibilities in an international environment;
  • an advanced (C1) command of English and an intermediate (B1) command of at least one other official language of the EU, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Desired: 
  • membership of the International Ombuds Association or an equivalent professional association.
You build and maintain relationships throughout the organisation and beyond. You emphasise the overarching mission and common objectives to achieve the best outcome for the organisation. You strive to achieve goals. You define the strategic outlook for your independent organisational unit. You build diverse teams and foster an environment of creativity and innovation. You endeavour to strengthen your teams’ capability, encouraging commitment and engagement.

You are motivated to contribute to the ECB’s mission to serve the citizens of the EU as a member of a public institution and to work with colleagues from all over Europe. You are aware of your strengths and areas for development and know what motivates you to perform at your highest level.

Further information

The formal title for this position will be Mediator.

The contract offered to the Mediator is a fixed-term non-convertible contract, the appointment being for four years, as of the exact starting date of the selected person, extendable once to up to eight years. Once the contract of the Mediator has expired, no further employment at the ECB will be allowed.

Application and selection process

The recruitment process for this position will be conducted remotely. It will include a presentation and interviews. 

If you are not selected for this position but are still considered suitable, you will be placed on a reserve list (see step 4 of how we hire). 
Find out how to apply for a position at the ECB. Read more about joining us