IC Senior Expert for Drafting Amendments for Provisions of the Taxation laws

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 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, peacebuilding, climate change, and sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, contributing to its mission of promoting human development and fostering resilient societies.

Job Overview:
The position of IC Senior Expert for Drafting Amendments for Provisions of the Taxation laws is crucial for supporting the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Serbia in aligning its taxation laws with the European Union's standards, specifically Chapter 16 concerning Taxation. The expert will be responsible for drafting amendments to the existing taxation laws, focusing on value-added tax and excise duties, while also developing systems for administrative cooperation. This role is essential in ensuring that Serbia meets the EU accession criteria related to taxation, thereby facilitating the country's integration into the EU framework. The assignment is set to take place from February 2026 to November 2026, during which the expert will collaborate closely with the Serbian Tax Administration and the Fiscal Systems Department to modernize and automate taxation processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the IC Senior Expert include but are not limited to:

• Conducting a comprehensive analysis of the current taxation laws in Serbia to identify areas that require amendments to align with EU standards.
• Drafting detailed proposals for amendments to the taxation laws, ensuring clarity, compliance, and feasibility.
• Collaborating with the Ministry of Finance and relevant stakeholders to gather input and feedback on proposed amendments.
• Providing technical assistance and guidance to the Serbian Tax Administration in implementing the new taxation provisions.
• Developing training materials and conducting workshops for tax officials to enhance their understanding of the new laws and procedures.
• Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the amendments to assess their effectiveness and compliance with EU requirements.
• Preparing reports and documentation to support the negotiation process with the EU regarding Chapter 16 – Taxation.
• Engaging in continuous communication with UNDP and other partners to ensure alignment of objectives and strategies.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A deep understanding of taxation laws and regulations, particularly in the context of EU legislation.
• Proven experience in drafting legal documents, particularly in the area of taxation.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the impact of proposed amendments on the existing legal framework.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate collaboration with various stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively under tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with the Serbian legal and taxation system is highly desirable.
• A strong commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in public finance management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold at least a Master's degree in Law, Public Administration, Economics, or a related field. A specialization in taxation law or public finance is highly advantageous. Additional certifications or training in EU law or public policy would be considered a plus.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in taxation law, public finance, or a related field. Experience working with governmental institutions, particularly in the context of EU integration processes, is highly desirable. Previous involvement in similar projects or assignments, especially those related to legal drafting and policy development, will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in Serbian is mandatory, as the role involves working closely with local authorities and stakeholders. Proficiency in English is also required, as it is the working language of UNDP and necessary for communication with international partners. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those of the EU member states, would be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an individual contractor role, which means it is not a permanent position but rather a temporary assignment for the specified duration. The contract will be full-time, and the expert is expected to work closely with the UNDP office in Serbia. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and additional benefits may be provided as per UNDP policies. The recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates, and all interested applicants must submit their proposals through the designated supplier portal by the specified deadline.