Institutional Capacity Development and Contract Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment globally. The organization is dedicated to eliminating discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving equality between women and men. UN Women operates in numerous countries, including South Sudan, where it supports the government in implementing international standards on gender equality and women's human rights. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and women's organizations, to promote gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women’s strategic engagement in South Sudan is defined by the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023-2026) and the corresponding UN Women South Sudan Strategic Note (2023-2026).

Job Overview:
The Institutional Capacity Development and Contract Management Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the South Sudan Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP), which aims to enhance the social and economic empowerment of women across South Sudan. This position involves providing strategic technical assistance to assess and strengthen the institutional capacity of the National Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare (MGCSW) and State Gender Ministries. The Specialist will oversee the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Women’s Empowerment Community Centres (WECCs) and ensure compliance with fiduciary and operational standards. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Project Management Unit (PMU), State Women’s Unions, and women's groups, to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The Specialist will also be responsible for contract management processes and ensuring that all activities align with project objectives and compliance requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Specialist will be responsible for coordinating and overseeing institutional capacity assessments of the MGCSW and State Gender Ministries, developing capacity strengthening frameworks, and providing technical assistance and mentoring to enhance the effectiveness of gender programming. Key duties include leading the operationalization of WECCs, designing and facilitating training programs, managing contracts and grants, developing monitoring and compliance systems, and ensuring alignment with project objectives. The Specialist will also engage in stakeholder coordination, contribute to project reporting, and document lessons learned to inform future programming. Regular monitoring of contract performance and compliance with World Bank standards will be essential to the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of institutional capacity development approaches, particularly in fragile settings. Demonstrated experience in contract and grant management, preferably in World Bank-funded projects, is essential. The role requires strong facilitation, coordination, and training skills, as well as analytical and communication abilities. The Specialist should be able to work effectively under pressure in a conflict-affected environment and demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public administration, Development Studies, Business Administration, Law, or a related field 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 considered a strong asset.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve international recruitment. The role will require adherence to UN Women’s policies and procedures, including a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.