National Consultant for drafting (trade-related) Country Programme Document

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, poverty reduction, crisis prevention and recovery, environment and sustainable development, and gender equality. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, including experts in various fields, to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for drafting the trade-related Country Programme Document (CPD) will play a crucial role in leading the process of updating and sequencing national trade and investment priorities into a Programme Action Matrix (PAM). This position requires the consultant to conduct thorough diagnostics and consultations to inform the PAM. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing all relevant strategic documents and ensuring that the PAM serves as a credible and dynamic foundation for the CPD. The work will primarily be conducted remotely from Honiara, with the consultant expected to hold meetings as necessary, guided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) and depending on the availability of key stakeholders. The assignment is expected to last for 20 working days, and the consultant must submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the process of updating and sequencing national trade and investment priorities into a Programme Action Matrix (PAM).
• Conduct diagnostics and consultations to gather relevant information for the PAM.
• Review all strategic documents related to trade and investment to inform the PAM.
• Identify and sequence priority actions in collaboration with MFAET.
• Ensure that the PAM is a credible and dynamic foundation for the Country Programme Document (CPD).
• Hold meetings with key stakeholders as guided by MFAET to discuss findings and gather input.
• Prepare and submit a comprehensive report detailing the findings and recommendations based on the consultations and diagnostics.
• Communicate effectively with UNDP and MFAET throughout the assignment to ensure alignment with national priorities.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in trade policy development and investment strategies.
• Strong understanding of the national trade and investment landscape in the Solomon Islands.
• Excellent analytical and research skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with stakeholders.
• Familiarity with UNDP processes and procedures is an advantage.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in Economics, International Trade, Development Studies, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in trade policy or investment strategies will be considered an asset.

Experience:
At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in trade policy development, investment strategies, or related fields is required. Experience working with government agencies, particularly in the Solomon Islands or similar contexts, is highly desirable. Previous experience with UNDP or other international organizations will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Solomon Islands would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 20 working days. The consultant will work remotely but may need to travel to Honiara for meetings as required. This is a consultancy position, and the consultant will be compensated based on the agreed terms in the contract. The position is open to both national and international candidates.