Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that operates in approximately 170 countries and territories. Established with the mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities and exclusion, UNDP focuses on helping countries develop policies, leadership skills, and institutional capabilities to build resilience and sustain development results. UNDP has been present in Guinea-Bissau since the signing of the Cooperation Agreement with the Government of Guinea-Bissau on June 29, 1975, shortly after the country's independence. The organization works collaboratively with various stakeholders, including the government, local and international NGOs, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to identify local solutions to global and national development challenges, aligning its efforts with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the Global Fund (GF) Project within the UNDP Guinea-Bissau Health/Global Fund Team. This position involves managing data and facilitating the implementation of GF projects, ensuring effective and transparent utilization of financial resources while maintaining the integrity of financial services. The Project Officer is expected to promote a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. The role requires close collaboration with operations, finance, and monitoring and evaluation teams within the Country Office and UNDP Headquarters to resolve complex program-related issues and ensure effective information delivery. The Project Officer will also supervise an administrative assistant and indirectly oversee five drivers, ensuring smooth operational support for the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will undertake a variety of functions, including:

• Supporting the administration and implementation of program, operational, and financial management strategies, ensuring compliance with UN/UNDP/GF rules and regulations. This includes mapping processes, developing internal Standard Operating Procedures, and applying Results Based Management (RBM) tools.
• Assisting in program management and administration of activities, budgets, and donor reporting, which involves preparing project documents, conducting field visits, and monitoring project performance indicators.
• Providing oversight to administrative support for the program/project portfolios, including supervising staff, managing office logistics, and ensuring effective internal controls.
• Creating strategic partnerships and implementing communication and resource mobilization strategies, including analyzing financial information on donors and preparing donor profiles.
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing among stakeholders, contributing to training sessions, and synthesizing lessons learned and best practices in program and project finance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of program and project management principles, particularly in the context of international development. They should demonstrate proficiency in financial management and reporting, as well as experience in working with diverse stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs. Strong analytical skills and the ability to develop solutions to operational and financial challenges are essential. Additionally, candidates should exhibit excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international development, public administration, business administration, or a related discipline is required. A master's degree in a relevant area would be an advantage and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three to five years of relevant professional experience in program and project management, particularly in the context of international development or humanitarian assistance. Experience working with UN agencies or similar organizations is highly desirable, as is familiarity with financial management and reporting processes.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the official language of Guinea-Bissau. Proficiency in English is also highly desirable, given the international nature of the work and the need to communicate with various stakeholders. Knowledge of additional local languages such as Creole or other ethnic languages would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, and may require flexibility and a willingness to work in challenging conditions. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the unique living conditions in Guinea-Bissau, which may include limited access to certain amenities. The organization emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and adaptability in this context.