Local Governance and Public Financing Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the development arm of the United Nations, established to help eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience in countries. Operating in approximately 170 countries and territories, UNDP focuses on strategic capacity development initiatives that promote inclusive growth and sustainable human development. Since its inception, UNDP has partnered with national, regional, and local governments, civil society, and the private sector to support various development goals. In Ukraine, UNDP has been active since 1993, working closely with the government and local authorities to address development challenges, especially in the context of the ongoing war since 202

• The organization aims to support Ukraine's recovery and development through targeted solutions in areas such as democratic governance, inclusive economic growth, and energy and environment.

Job Overview:
The Local Governance and Public Financing Specialist will play a crucial role in providing high-quality technical advice on local governance, public investment management, and EU regional policy. This position is based in Mykolaiv and involves managing the Mykolaiv-Denmark programme, which focuses on the reconstruction and recovery of war-affected communities. The specialist will work under the guidance of the Resident Representative and Programme Manager, ensuring that UNDP's strategies align with local needs and international standards. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including local authorities and civil society, to enhance the impact of UNDP's projects and programmes. The incumbent will also be responsible for leading strategic planning, monitoring programme implementation, and ensuring that the initiatives are consistent with UNDP's Country Programme Document priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide policy advice to counterparts and lead knowledge management on inclusive local governance and public investment management. Facilitate policy dialogue with government, partners, and civil society, contributing to the development of relevant policies. Assess local governance and public investment management policies for their impact on EU integration and community transformation. Provide training and capacity building for UNDP staff and local authorities.
• Lead the implementation of UNDP programme strategies for area-based recovery in Mykolaiv. Guide colleagues in understanding risks and opportunities related to programme implementation. Analyze the political, social, and economic situation in Ukraine, particularly in Mykolaiv. Operationalize the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework in collaboration with partners.
• Build strategic partnerships in the designated area by developing collaborations with UN Agencies, government institutions, and civil society. Contribute to the development of the Country Office pipeline and portfolio.
• Promote awareness and facilitate advocacy for UNDP’s mandate by participating in forums and producing high-quality inputs for presentations.
• Ensure gender equality and mainstreaming across all programme components by conducting gender assessments and ensuring that recovery efforts are inclusive. Provide technical support on gender equality practices and develop gender-sensitive indicators.

Required Qualifications:
An Advanced University degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Political Sciences, Social Sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the mentioned fields, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of local governance, public investment management, and EU regional policy, as well as experience in policy analysis and project management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Political Sciences, or Social Sciences. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience.

Experience:
A minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience at the national and/or international level is required for candidates with a master’s degree, or nine (9) years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience should include local governance, public investment management, EU regional policy, and project design and evaluation. Proven experience in managing donor relations and coordinating multi-stakeholder programmes is desirable, as is experience working with local authorities and civil society.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required. Working knowledge of another official UN language is desirable, which would enhance the candidate's ability to engage in diverse environments and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, and involves matrixed supervision and performance management of the area-based recovery programme team. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks to ensure adherence to UNDP's standards and principles.