Design Thinking Expert for UN Programme Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries, including Ethiopia, where it collaborates with the government and other stakeholders to implement sustainable development initiatives. The UN's presence in Ethiopia is guided by the 2025-2030 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which outlines the joint efforts of 28 UN agencies to support the Government of Ethiopia in achieving its national development priorities.

Job Overview:
The Design Thinking Expert will play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of UN staff in Ethiopia to develop high-impact, people-centered programmes. This position involves delivering a comprehensive design thinking training methodology aligned with the UN Ethiopia 2025-2030 Cooperation Framework. The expert will create evergreen design thinking tools and training materials tailored for technical and senior programme staff, facilitating three two-day workshops to ensure effective knowledge transfer. The ultimate goal is to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within the UN country team, enabling them to respond dynamically to the evolving needs of Ethiopia while promoting integrated, data-driven programming that strengthens accountability and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks:

• Proposing an appropriate training methodology that aligns with the UN Cooperation Framework outcomes and transformative results.
• Developing detailed training materials for UN staff, incorporating feedback and adjustments based on training experiences.
• Conducting three in-person workshops (design clinics) for 30-50 UN staff participants, focusing on core design thinking concepts and practical applications.
• Preparing a comprehensive final report that includes an assessment of the training's effectiveness and recommendations for future training needs. The training content should cover theoretical and practical aspects of design thinking, including ideation, iteration, prototyping, human-centered design, and agility. It should also introduce tools such as personas and journey mapping, provide practical examples from international development organizations, and be highly visual and participatory, with hands-on exercises.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Design, Innovation, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Certification in International Design Thinking is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of demonstrated expertise in design thinking, including partnerships with reputable design thinking institutions or hubs. A strong understanding of design thinking methodologies in civil society and international NGOs, particularly in non-Western contexts, is required. Excellent knowledge of social innovation techniques and experience in developing and delivering training programmes for international development organizations in sub-Saharan Africa are essential. Candidates must also demonstrate the ability to work under tight deadlines and collaborate effectively in teams, along with excellent oral and written communication skills, including report writing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Design, Innovation, or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Certification in International Design Thinking is considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of demonstrated expertise in design thinking, particularly in the context of civil society and international NGOs. Experience in developing and delivering training programmes for international development organizations in sub-Saharan Africa is required. Familiarity with the Ethiopian context and development landscape is desirable, as is the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and in collaborative team environments.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Candidates must demonstrate excellent communication skills in both languages, particularly in report writing and presentations.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is four months, during which the consultant will engage in various training and workshop activities. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a proposed approach and methodology, including a detailed work plan. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.