Mediation and Technical Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that works in approximately 170 countries and territories. Established to help eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities, UNDP focuses on developing policies, leadership skills, and institutional capabilities to build resilience and sustain development results. It serves as the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development within the UN Development System, integrating collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's policy work spans from headquarters to regional and country offices, ensuring a blend of local knowledge and global perspectives. The Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) is responsible for developing corporate policies and guidance in support of UNDP's Strategic Plan, working closely with the Crisis Bureau to connect countries with global expertise and best practices. The organization invests in the Global Policy Network (GPN) to enhance its technical expertise across various knowledge domains, supporting its signature solutions and organizational capabilities.

Job Overview:
The Mediation and Technical Support Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Stakeholder Response Mechanism (SRM) within UNDP. This position involves providing mediation, facilitation, and dispute resolution services, ensuring that complainants are well-informed about grievance redress avenues. The specialist will work closely with the SRM Lead Advisor to implement effective mediation processes, manage mediators, and monitor the outcomes of mediation efforts. Additionally, the role includes providing technical support for SRM's participation in international networks, contributing to policy reviews, and ensuring that contemporary accountability themes are integrated into policy developments. The specialist will also be responsible for developing capacity-building strategies and knowledge products for Country Offices, enhancing their ability to implement SRMs effectively. This position requires a high level of flexibility, as the incumbent will work remotely and may need to accommodate different time zones and travel for field missions as necessary.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mediation and Technical Support Specialist will be responsible for the following duties:

• Lead mediation, facilitation, and dispute resolution efforts, advising complainants on grievance redress options and providing a comprehensive overview of the SRM process.
• Provide mediation services on behalf of UNDP's Corporate SRM and manage mediators or third-party consultants.
• Monitor the implementation of mediation outcomes and ensure the SRM public case registry is updated regularly.
• Provide routine case update reports to the SRM Lead Advisor, maintaining strict neutrality and confidentiality.
• Offer technical support regarding SRM's participation in IAMnetwork and UNAMnet, collaborating with the SRM Lead Advisor to recruit local mediators globally.
• Contribute to policy review processes, ensuring accountability themes are included in policy developments.
• Develop knowledge products and capacity-building strategies for Country Offices to enhance their SRM implementation.
• Advise on appropriate case management systems for Corporate SRM and Country Office SRMs, building internal understanding of these systems within UNDP.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the SRM.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Law, Public Administration, Political, Social Sciences, Humanities, Development Studies, Business Management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned fields, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will also be considered. The role requires a minimum of 7 years of extensive international experience in mediation, negotiation, and facilitation within multi-stakeholder development contexts, or 9 years with a Bachelor’s degree. Proficiency in IT software packages, particularly MS Word and Excel, along with advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database management, is essential. Experience with web-based management and ERP systems is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Law, Public Administration, Political Science, Social Sciences, Humanities, Development Studies, or Business Management. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in these fields, along with two additional years of qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of mediation and dispute resolution in international contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 7 years of extensive international experience in mediation, negotiation, and facilitation within multi-stakeholder development contexts. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least 9 years of relevant experience. Proven field experience in mediating complex disputes among various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and civil society, is essential. Experience in working with independent accountability mechanisms is considered an asset, as is prior work within international organizations such as UN agencies or the World Bank.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in diverse international contexts and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing the incumbent to work from their home base. The incumbent is responsible for providing their own working station, including a laptop, internet connection, and necessary software. Flexibility in availability is expected due to the global nature of the work, which may involve accommodating different time zones. If field missions are required, UNDP will cover related travel and subsistence expenses. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring an inclusive workplace where all personnel can thrive.