Programme Implementation Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and addressing climate change. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in over 170 countries, employing approximately 40 personnel in its Samoa Multi-Country Office (MCO). The organization focuses on building integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet, particularly in the Pacific Islands, where development challenges are complex and multifaceted. UNDP's mission is guided by the principle of leaving no one behind, emphasizing gender equality, women's empowerment, and the engagement of youth and persons with disabilities. The MCO aims to strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders and enhance program implementation across the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Programme Implementation Officer will play a crucial role in supporting UNDP projects in the Cook Islands, ensuring effective coordination and integration of various initiatives. This position requires close collaboration with the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative and the Head of the Resident Coordinator’s Office, as well as engagement with government partners and other UN agencies. The officer will be responsible for promoting programmatic synergies, advocating for government resource mobilization, and facilitating data collection to assess the impact of UNDP initiatives. The role also involves building partnerships with development actors and stakeholders, maintaining communication among partner agencies, and promoting the visibility of UNDP activities. The officer will support the UNDP Multi-Country Office in gathering relevant socio-economic and political data for project planning and execution, as well as assisting the Resident Coordinator’s Office with event preparation and protocol. Overall, the Programme Implementation Officer will contribute to the effective implementation of UNDP's mission in the region, focusing on sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:

• Support UNDP projects in Cook Islands by ensuring overall coordination and integration of initiatives, establishing communication lines between projects, and advocating for government resource mobilization.
• Build partnerships with development actors, government officials, and civil society, maintaining collaboration among partner agencies and facilitating data sharing.
• Gather relevant socio-economic and political data for project planning and evaluation, support field visits, and assist in the preparation of UNDP events and workshops.
• Provide service support for the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, including gathering data, facilitating field visits, and organizing joint steering committee meetings.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office and organization, ensuring alignment with UNDP's goals and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Administration, Project Management, Policy, Social Sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with an additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be considered. Relevant experience in project management and coordination is essential, along with advanced knowledge of computer office software packages such as Microsoft Office. Candidates should demonstrate experience in stakeholder engagement and networking, as well as a thorough understanding of the development context in the Cook Islands. Previous experience working with government, donors, or the UN is an asset, along with skills in reporting and writing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Public Administration, Project Management, Policy, or Social Sciences. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of development work and effectively managing projects within the UNDP framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of experience working at the national or international level in the development sector or public sector, particularly in roles related to project management and coordination. Those with a Master’s degree should have at least 2 years of relevant experience, while candidates with a Bachelor’s degree should have a minimum of 4 years of experience. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of the development context and institutional setup of the Cook Islands, as well as proficiency in stakeholder engagement and networking.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNDP and with external partners. Additionally, fluency in Cook Island Maori is desirable, as it enhances communication and engagement with local stakeholders and communities, fostering a more inclusive approach to development initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under Tier 1, which includes UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent and fixed-term appointments. The role is full-time and may involve travel within the Cook Islands to facilitate project implementation and stakeholder engagement. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity employment and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a safe and inclusive workplace for all personnel. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level.