Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading UN organization dedicated to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries, working with governments and local partners to create integrated solutions that address the interconnected challenges of poverty, inequality, and climate change. The organization's mission is to help nations build resilience and sustainable solutions for their people and the planet. In Palestine, UNDP's Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) focuses on improving the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people, guided by the Palestinian Programmatic Framework (PPF) 2023-2025, which emphasizes democratic governance, inclusive economic opportunities, and sustainable natural resource management.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist will lead the democratic governance and quality services portfolio within the UNDP Gaza Sub Office. This role involves designing and implementing program initiatives that align with UNDP's mission and the specific needs of the Palestinian people. The incumbent will work closely with various teams across Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem to ensure the successful execution of projects aimed at enhancing democratic governance, improving public services, and fostering inclusive economic opportunities. The position requires a strategic approach to policy dialogue, capacity building, and the facilitation of knowledge sharing among government counterparts, civil society, and other stakeholders. The Programme Specialist will also oversee early recovery and reconstruction efforts, ensuring that interventions are inclusive and address the needs of vulnerable populations, including women and persons with disabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected incumbent will undertake several key functions, including:

• Providing advice to government counterparts and facilitating knowledge building on governance issues, including policy dialogue, research commissioning, and promoting democratization initiatives.
• Leading the development of early recovery and reconstruction strategic policies, managing projects related to governance, infrastructure, education, health, and housing.
• Ensuring high-quality team management, monitoring project implementation, and providing guidance to project managers and teams.
• Contributing to knowledge management efforts, synthesizing best practices, and disseminating lessons learned.
• Building strong partnerships with national and international stakeholders, coordinating resource mobilization efforts, and ensuring effective communication of program goals and activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Management, Business Administration, Political Science, Governance, International Cooperation and Development, Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of relevant experience will be considered. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in managing governance-related projects and development infrastructure projects is required, with at least seven years of experience for candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Proven experience in supply/logistics management, project management, and working with local governments and NGOs is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent report writing skills and familiarity with project management software.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Management, Political Science, Governance, or Engineering is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with additional relevant experience, may also be acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of governance and development projects in a challenging context like Gaza.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in governance and development projects, including early recovery initiatives. Experience in managing complex logistics and operations, particularly in crisis or humanitarian contexts, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UN policies and procedures, as well as experience in project management, finance, and human resources, will be advantageous. Previous experience in governance and access to justice in crisis areas is also preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic and English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both Arabic and English to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is open only to current Palestinian nationals available for employment in the Gaza Strip, who are willing to work and travel throughout various cities in the region. The role involves full-time commitment and may require travel within the Gaza Strip. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates adhere to relevant standards and principles.