Institutional Capacity Development and Contract Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women, established in July 2010, is the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. It was created as part of the UN reform agenda to consolidate resources and mandates for greater impact on gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women merges and builds on the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on gender issues. The organization operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. In South Sudan, UN Women supports the government in implementing commitments to international standards on gender equality and women's human rights, working with various stakeholders including government entities, civil society, and women's organizations.

Job Overview:
The Institutional Capacity Development and Contract Management Specialist will provide strategic technical assistance under the guidance of the Programme Manager. This role involves assessing the institutional capacity of the National Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare (MGCSW) and strengthening the operational capacity of State Gender Ministries and State Women’s Unions for the sustainable management of Women’s Empowerment Community Centres (WECCs). The Specialist will oversee the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs), support contract management processes, and ensure compliance with fiduciary and operational standards. The position requires close collaboration with the Project Management Unit (PMU)/MGCSW, State Women’s Unions, and women's groups to ensure the successful implementation of the South Sudan Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will coordinate and oversee service providers conducting institutional capacity assessments, develop capacity strengthening frameworks, support policy and strategic development, provide technical assistance and mentoring, lead the operationalization of WECCs, and design training programs. Additionally, the Specialist will manage contract development and compliance, monitor contract performance, build local capacity in procurement and financial oversight, and ensure adherence to World Bank fiduciary standards. The role also involves stakeholder engagement, reporting, and knowledge management to facilitate effective project implementation and address challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of institutional capacity development approaches, demonstrated ability in contract and grant management, and strong facilitation and training skills. Analytical, communication, and report writing skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively under pressure in conflict-affected settings. The role requires a commitment to gender issues and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public administration, Development Studies, Business Administration, Law, or other relevant fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in institutional capacity building, public sector strengthening, and contract or grant management is required. Experience working with government institutions, women’s organizations, and donor-funded programs in post-conflict or fragile states is essential. Familiarity with World Bank operational procedures and fiduciary standards is a strong asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages is advantageous, and knowledge of another official UN language is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves working closely with various stakeholders in a complex environment. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that recruitment and employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives.