Project Manager-EU

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, which is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Established in 1950, UNHCR's mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. The organization operates in over 130 countries, with a workforce of more than 18,000 employees dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and humanitarian action, aiming to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country. The organization also works to promote solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement to a third country. In Kenya, UNHCR has a significant presence, focusing on the protection of refugees and asylum seekers, and collaborating with the government and other stakeholders to implement various initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager-EU will play a crucial role in overseeing the implementation and reporting of EU-funded projects managed by UNHCR. This position requires strong coordination, networking, and drafting skills, as the incumbent will interact with various partners and stakeholders both within and outside UNHCR. The Project Manager will report to the Strategic Partnership Advisor and will work closely with all units in the Representation Office, as well as support field locations in Kakuma and Dadaab. The main activities include ensuring timely and high-quality project reports, facilitating collaboration among project teams, and contributing to donor management systems. The incumbent should possess knowledge of project management and demonstrate the ability to mobilize resources and promote consensus among diverse stakeholders. Effective communication skills, both written and oral, are essential for success in this role, as is the ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams. The Project Manager-EU will also be responsible for maintaining donor interest and supporting tasks related to fundraising initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Manager-EU include:

• Supporting official project management for two EU-funded projects, ensuring that project activities are implemented effectively and efficiently.
• Liaising with other project teams benefitting from EU funds to prepare joint reports and documents, fostering collaboration and information sharing.
• Working closely with teams in Kakuma and Dadaab, as well as in Nairobi, to ensure the successful implementation of project activities.
• Drafting project reports and documents in a timely manner, ensuring they meet quality standards and donor requirements.
• Preparing and drafting narrative and financial reports for the donor (EU), ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting guidelines.
• Reviewing inputs from the field before submission to the Head of the Unit, ensuring that all information is complete and accurate.
• Contributing to other funding initiatives that may arise with the EU, identifying opportunities for collaboration and resource mobilization.
• Supporting the coordination and organization of regular program meetings and steering committee meetings, facilitating communication among stakeholders.
• Providing support to project teams in the field in grant management and programming of earmarked funds, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. 1
• Keeping track of various learnings and lessons from the project, documenting best practices and areas for improvement. 1
• Coordinating with the Communications team on communications and visibility products in line with contractual obligations, ensuring that project achievements are effectively communicated to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Manager-EU position include:

• An undergraduate degree in sociology, social sciences, project management, finance, or other related fields.
• Strong familiarity with UNHCR’s Results-Based Management (RBM) framework and experience in meeting reporting requirements for EU-funded projects is desirable.
• Certification in project management is an added advantage, demonstrating a formal understanding of project management principles and practices.
• Training on fundraising with the EU is beneficial, as it enhances the incumbent's ability to engage with donors and secure funding.
• An advanced degree in a related field is an added advantage, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities of project management and donor relations.

Educational Background:
The educational background needed for the Project Manager-EU position includes:

• An undergraduate degree in sociology, social sciences, project management, finance, or other related fields.
• An advanced degree in a related field is considered an added advantage, as it may provide additional insights and knowledge relevant to the role.
• Certification in project management is beneficial, indicating a formal qualification in managing projects effectively.
• Training on fundraising with the EU is desirable, equipping the incumbent with skills to engage with donors and secure funding for projects.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Project Manager-EU position includes:

• At least 7 years of working experience at a responsible level in a development-focused organization, with direct fundraising experience working with the EU for no less than four years.
• Experience in external engagement with donors, UN agencies, partners, and governments is essential, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Professional work experience in field operations is desirable, providing practical insights into the challenges and opportunities faced in project implementation.
• Knowledge of UNHCR’s operational arrangements, relief programs, funding needs, and priorities is highly valued, as it enhances the incumbent's ability to align project activities with organizational goals.
• Experience in complex stakeholder management is also desirable, as it reflects the ability to balance competing interests and foster collaboration among diverse partners.

Languages:
The mandatory language for the Project Manager-EU position is English, as it is the primary language of communication within UNHCR and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where UNHCR operates, is considered a good to have, as it may enhance communication and engagement with local partners and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position does not require a functional clearance and is not remote. The role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, which is a family-friendly duty station with good medical facilities, recreational options, and international-standard schools. The position is classified as UNOPS LICA8, indicating a specific level of responsibility and expertise. The target start date for this position is January 1, 2026, and the deadline for applications is December 13, 202

• The living and working conditions in Nairobi are favorable, with access to good housing, banking facilities, and communication means. However, it is important to note that while Nairobi is relatively safe, there are health considerations such as the requirement for a yellow fever vaccination when entering the country.