Town Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in Bangladesh since 1972, focusing on promoting democratic governance, climate adaptation, environmental protection, and inclusive growth. The organization aims to assist Bangladesh in achieving equitable and sustainable development, working closely with the government to co-design policy solutions and build national capacities. UNDP's mission is to support the country in overcoming development challenges and achieving its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Town Coordinator will play a pivotal role in the Democratic Governance and Institutional Programming (DGIP) portfolio of UNDP Bangladesh, specifically under the Livelihoods Support for Urban Poor Communities (LIUPCP) initiative funded by the Government of Bangladesh. This position is based in Dhaka but involves working in various towns and cities across the country. The Town Coordinator will be responsible for leading the implementation of project activities aimed at improving the living conditions and resilience of urban poor communities. This includes a dual approach focusing on housing and settlement improvement as well as socio-economic enhancement. The role requires effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of project activities, fostering partnerships with Local Government Institutions (LGIs), and ensuring community participation. The Town Coordinator will also navigate complex urban governance systems and address challenges such as limited LGI capacity and the need for inclusive participation of marginalized groups, particularly women. The position demands adaptive management and innovation to address climate risks and poverty in rapidly urbanizing areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Town Coordinator will lead overall program planning, implementation, and management at the City Corporation/Municipality level. Responsibilities include frequent communication with cities and communities to facilitate programmatic, administrative, and financial issues for timely delivery. The Coordinator will coordinate with the project analyst, lead the implementation of targeted activities, prepare and implement results-based work plans, and ensure community action plans are regularly reviewed. Timely decision-making and problem-solving are essential for effective project implementation. Financial management must comply with the project's Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring proper utilization of financial inputs and supervising project resources. The Coordinator will also lead knowledge management efforts, document lessons learned, and promote project visibility in media. Additionally, the role involves conducting collaborative meetings with local partners, monitoring program progress, and ensuring capacity building through training and workshops for stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Urban Development, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) combined with two years of qualifying experience will be considered. Applicants with a Master’s degree are not required to have prior professional experience, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least two years of relevant experience in building partnerships with organizations and agencies. Required skills include experience in managing relations with Local Government institutions, financial control procedures, and budget monitoring. Desired skills include practical experience in negotiating contracts, knowledge of municipal systems in Bangladesh, and experience in climate change resilience and disaster management.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) from a reputable institution in Urban Development, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires applicants with a Master’s degree to have no prior professional experience, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. Experience in building and managing partnerships with Local Government institutions and diverse stakeholders is essential. Familiarity with financial control procedures and budget monitoring is also required. Additional experience in community-based development projects, particularly in urban contexts, is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English and Bangla is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve travel to project towns. UNDP is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diversity and encouraging 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 may retain applications for similar positions. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.