Project Manager - SDG Impact, Finance and Innovation

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations' global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build better lives. UNDP operates in over 170 countries, working on solutions to global and national development challenges. In Malaysia, UNDP assists in developing solutions to the country’s development challenges, focusing on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, governance, environmental sustainability, and climate change.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager will be responsible for leading projects under the UNDP Malaysia SDG Impact, Finance and Innovation portfolio. This includes overseeing public finance components related to Climate Change Budget Tagging (CCBT) and Climate Public Expenditure and Institutional Review (CPIER), as well as private financing components focused on Social Financing and Biodiversity. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, technical experts, financial institutions, and civil society, to ensure the successful implementation of UNDP programmes. The incumbent will also be tasked with developing financing strategies, managing partnerships, and supporting knowledge sharing initiatives to enhance policy impact and accelerate SDG initiatives in Malaysia.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead projects under the UNDP Malaysia SDG Impact, Finance and Innovation portfolio, including public finance components on Climate Change Budget Tagging (CCBT) and Climate Public Expenditure and Institutional Review (CPIER).
• Expand strategic partnerships with key private sector and financing institutions, managing initiatives and engagements that position UNDP’s value proposition to Malaysian stakeholders.
• Develop financing strategies and value proposition packages, aligning with national priorities and SDG Roadmap.
• Support knowledge sharing and evidence generation on sustainability financing, including market assessments and thought leadership communication.
• Ensure compliance with UNDP corporate rules and regulations in managing selected projects, overseeing implementation, and ensuring quality reporting.
• Collaborate with cross-portfolio teams to promote effective application of impact finance mechanisms and conduct rigorous analytical work to inform sectoral strategies.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Public Policy, or Development Studies. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) with additional qualifying experience may be considered. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of development programmes, with a strong understanding of analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and operational efficiency. Proficiency in digital tools for programme and financial management is essential, and knowledge of the Quantum system is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Public Policy, or Development Studies. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) may be accepted in combination with additional qualifying experience. Professional certificates related to ESG or SDG Impact and Sustainable Financing are considered assets.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant experience at the national and/or international level in project/programme formulation, economics, investment, finance, or similar areas is required for candidates with a Master’s degree. For those with a Bachelor’s degree, a minimum of four years of relevant experience is necessary. Candidates should have experience in leading development programmes and projects, conducting financial analysis, and ensuring compliance with financial rules and regulations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bahasa Malaysia is required for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government, private sector, and civil society. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and conducts relevant checks for selected candidates. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. There are no fees charged at any stage of the recruitment process.