SGP National Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Ecuador has been operational for over 30 years, focusing on biodiversity conservation across various ecosystems. Since its inception in 1994, it has funded 400 projects with over USD 12.5 million in grants, supported by significant co-financing. Currently in its Operational Phase 8, SGP Ecuador aims to enhance landscape-level planning, strengthen local capacities, and promote sustainable bio enterprises, contributing to global environmental benefits and community resilience. The SGP is implemented by UNDP on behalf of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and has supported over 29,000 community-based projects in more than 120 countries, addressing global environmental concerns through community-based approaches. More information can be found at https://sgp.undp.org/.

Job Overview:
The SGP National Coordinator will oversee the implementation of the SGP at the country level, working under the direct supervision of the Resident Representative and the SGP Regional Programme Specialist. This role involves managing the SGP Country Programme team, ensuring effective teamwork, and preparing annual work plans with strategic initiatives. The coordinator will also manage grant allocations, maintain financial integrity, and monitor project implementation progress. The position requires close collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Community-based Organizations (CBOs) to ensure project proposals align with SGP's strategic initiatives. The coordinator will also be responsible for resource mobilization, establishing partnerships, and facilitating knowledge management and communication within the program.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise the SGP Country Programme Associate/Assistant and provide guidance and coaching.
• Promote teamwork within the SGP Country Programme team and with UNDP CO team.
• Prepare and implement annual work plans with strategic initiatives and set delivery targets.
• Manage the SGP grant allocations and country operating budget, ensuring adherence to SGP Standard Operating Procedures.
• Organize stakeholder workshops and project development sessions for CSOs and local communities.
• Oversee ongoing SGP grant projects, conduct monitoring field visits, and provide technical support to grantees.
• Plan and serve as secretary to National Steering Committee meetings.
• Report periodically to the Central Programme Management Team on program implementation status.
• Document program/project stories and best practices for knowledge management. 1
• Facilitate partnerships and resource mobilization strategies to leverage SGP resources.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental or Natural Resource Management, Economy, Public Policy, Law, Environmental Economics/Management, Business Administration, or a related field is required.
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above fields combined with two years of qualifying experience will be considered.
• Experience in managing environment/natural resource management projects at national or local levels is required for applicants with a bachelor’s degree.
• Proficiency in using computers and office software packages is required.
• Desirable criteria include progressively responsible experience in project or programme management at international/national levels, experience in managing UNDP programmes, and knowledge of GEF-SGP thematic areas.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Environmental Management, Natural Resource Management, Economy, Public Policy, or related disciplines. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these fields combined with two years of relevant experience will be considered. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and managing related projects effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in managing environment or natural resource management projects for candidates with a bachelor's degree. Those with a master's degree are not required to have prior professional experience. Experience in project management, particularly in the context of UNDP or similar organizations, is highly desirable. Familiarity with GEF-SGP thematic areas and the ability to work in sensitive environments requiring collaboration with various stakeholders is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in the UNDP Ecuador Country Office. The incumbent will report to the Environment & Energy Programme Analyst and will have access to necessary resources for task execution, including a workstation and reliable internet connection. The net monthly salary for this position is USD 2,908.01 plus an 8.33% social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security contribution. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.