Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and policies conducive to adequate housing for all. It operates globally, with a focus on supporting central and state governments, local authorities, and other partners in implementing the Habitat Agenda, the 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, and the New Urban Agenda. UN-Habitat aims to transform cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places, working with various stakeholders including government, civil society, and the private sector. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and has expanded its portfolio in the country by collaborating with all tiers of government to formulate and implement effective urban policies.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordinator will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of projects aimed at addressing urban poverty and enhancing community participation in Rio de Janeiro. This position requires close collaboration with programme, operations, and project teams to achieve project objectives and organizational priorities. The incumbent will be responsible for developing work plans, preparing technical documents, and ensuring compliance with agency standards. The role also involves monitoring project progress, managing relationships with stakeholders, and facilitating knowledge sharing and capacity building within the community. The Programme Coordinator will report to the Head of Brazil Office and will be evaluated based on their performance in executing these responsibilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Coordinator's duties include implementing the overall work plan in accordance with project documents, developing inception outputs, preparing and reviewing technical documents, and establishing systems for project planning and monitoring. They will manage periodic project follow-up activities, ensure technical quality, prepare work plans and progress reports, and identify risks affecting project implementation. Additionally, the coordinator will maintain knowledge of the Contribution Agreement, monitor financial reporting deadlines, and track disbursement schedules. They will engage with project partners, organize recruitment and management of technical teams, and document project processes and outputs. The role also involves monitoring implementation progress, conducting follow-up activities, and preparing narrative reports. The Programme Coordinator will manage team schedules, performance evaluations, and ensure compliance with UN-Habitat quality standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, International Relations, Social Sciences, Architecture and Urbanism, Law, Geography, Economics, or related fields. A postgraduate degree in relevant fields is required, or an additional four years of relevant experience beyond the educational requirement. Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project/programme management related to urban development themes, experience in public policies, slums, data analysis, and stakeholder coordination in Brazil. Team management experience is essential, and experience in participatory workshops is desirable. Previous experience within the UN System is also a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Public Administration, International Relations, Social Sciences, Architecture and Urbanism, Law, Geography, or Economics. A postgraduate degree (Lato Sensu or Stricto Sensu) in similar fields is required, or an additional four years of relevant experience can substitute for this requirement. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of urban development and project management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, particularly in development or urban-related themes. Candidates should have professional experience related to public policies, slums, data analysis, and social and urban development in Brazil. Experience in managing teams and facilitating participatory workshops is also important, with previous experience within the UN System being desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary working languages. A working knowledge of Spanish is considered desirable, particularly given the regional context of the role and the need for effective communication with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is a Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA) with UNOPS, which includes Cigna health insurance. The incumbent may be required to travel within Brazil as part of project requirements, and all travel will adhere to United Nations policies. The appointment is on a local basis, and only Brazilian nationals or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The contract is subject to availability of funds and performance, and any extension is not guaranteed. Applicants must submit their applications through the Inspira system, including a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.