National Consultant to support Government Coordination and Implementation

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and aims to support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP has a diverse workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide, including experts in various fields, and collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing the institutional coordination capacity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities in Guinea-Bissau. This position is pivotal as the ministry is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and coordinating the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and the broader development cooperation agenda. The consultant will be expected to provide expert advice and support to the ministry, ensuring that the government's strategies align with international development goals and effectively address the needs of the population. The role involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government officials, UN agencies, and civil society organizations, to foster collaboration and ensure that development initiatives are effectively coordinated and implemented. The consultant will also be tasked with identifying gaps in the current coordination mechanisms and proposing actionable solutions to enhance the overall effectiveness of the ministry's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Consultant include but are not limited to:

• Assessing the current institutional coordination mechanisms within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and identifying areas for improvement.
• Developing a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the ministry's capacity for effective coordination of development initiatives.
• Facilitating workshops and training sessions for ministry staff to enhance their skills in project management and coordination.
• Collaborating with UN agencies and other stakeholders to ensure alignment of development efforts with the UNSDCF.
• Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of development projects and providing feedback to the ministry on progress and challenges.
• Preparing reports and documentation on the ministry's coordination efforts and presenting findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Supporting the ministry in establishing partnerships with civil society organizations and the private sector to enhance development cooperation.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong understanding of development cooperation frameworks, particularly the UNSDCF.
• Proven experience in institutional capacity building and coordination within government or international organizations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex situations and propose effective solutions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Familiarity with the socio-political context of Guinea-Bissau and the challenges facing the country in terms of development.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a minimum of a Master's degree in International Relations, Development Studies, Public Administration, or a related field. A PhD in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. Additionally, specialized training in project management or capacity building would be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in development cooperation, institutional capacity building, or related fields. Experience working with government agencies, particularly in Guinea-Bissau or similar contexts, is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a proven track record of successfully managing projects and facilitating stakeholder engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the official language of Guinea-Bissau. Proficiency in English and/or French would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is for a duration of 60 working days within a period of 4 months. The consultant will be expected to work on a part-time basis, with flexibility in scheduling to accommodate the needs of the ministry and the consultant. This position is open to both national and international candidates, and compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Interested candidates must submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline.