Local Implementation Specialist

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 inequality and exclusion, UNDP focuses on helping countries develop policies, enhance leadership skills, and build institutional capacities. The organization aims to foster resilience and sustainable development results through various projects and partnerships with governments, international financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society. UNDP Brazil, in particular, aligns its services with the dynamic needs of the country, contributing to human development and poverty reduction in priority areas. The organization implements numerous projects, providing technical, operational, and management assistance through specialized knowledge and methodologies, leveraging a wide international network of technical cooperation.

Job Overview:
The Local Implementation Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the CARDIO4Cities project in Portugal, which aims to improve public health policies through South-South Cooperation. This position involves supporting the coordination, planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting of project activities in alignment with strategic objectives and established indicators. The specialist will engage with local counterparts and ensure that the project meets its goals of enhancing cardiovascular health and reducing health inequities in urban settings. The role requires a strong focus on data analysis, monitoring health indicators, and developing dashboards to track progress. The specialist will also be responsible for training local teams, producing analytical reports, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. This position is vital for promoting project sustainability and integrating health initiatives into local policies, ultimately contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Local Implementation Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the alignment and consolidation of information for the CARDIO4Cities units in Portugal.
• Planning and monitoring project activities to ensure they align with strategic objectives and defined indicators.
• Preparing monthly reports that detail activities carried out, results achieved, and supporting evidence such as attendance lists and meeting records.
• Analyzing data and monitoring indicators related to primary health care and chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a focus on cardiovascular risk.
• Developing and managing dashboards and monitoring systems for health indicators.
• Integrating and validating databases from various municipalities and sources.
• Conducting advanced data analysis to generate insights on cardiovascular risk and intervention performance.
• Ensuring data quality and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in compliance with LGPD and international best practices.
• Supporting interoperability between local systems and the project’s digital tools. 1
• Producing analytical reports and visualizations for managers and partners. 1
• Training local teams in the use of digital tools and interpretation of indicators. 1
• Supporting local implementation, including coordination with municipal managers, health teams, and institutional partners. 1
• Coordinating capacity-building and engagement activities for healthcare professionals and stakeholders to strengthen evidence-based practices. 1
• Producing and reviewing technical and institutional content, including materials for communication, reports, and presentations. 1
• Participating in strategic and operational meetings scheduled by BP or project partners. 1
• Ensuring compliance with institutional guidelines and data protection regulations, safeguarding confidentiality and proper data use. 1
• Promoting project sustainability in implemented municipalities, supporting continuity strategies and integration with local policies. 1
• Supporting the submission of the project for national and international awards and recognitions, when applicable.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Local Implementation Specialist position should possess strong analytical skills for interpreting health data and indicators. They should demonstrate an orientation toward digital innovation, analytical and critical thinking abilities, and attention to information quality and security. Technological adaptability is essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and local authorities. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, and knowledge of user-centered design methodologies and health innovation is considered an asset. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position typically includes a degree in public health, health sciences, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or PhD in relevant disciplines may be preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of health systems, public health policies, and data analysis methodologies, as well as familiarity with the challenges and opportunities in urban health contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of several years of relevant experience in public health, project management, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or non-governmental organizations in health-related projects is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully implementing health initiatives, managing data, and engaging with local stakeholders. Experience in capacity building and training local teams is also beneficial, as is familiarity with the specific health challenges faced in urban settings.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, given the local context and the need to engage with local counterparts. Proficiency in English is also required, as the role involves collaboration with international partners and reporting to global stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly Spanish, may be considered an asset, especially given the project's focus on South-South Cooperation and potential implementation in other Portuguese-speaking countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Lisbon, Portugal, and offers a vibrant living environment with a mild Mediterranean climate. The role is full-time and may involve occasional travel within Portugal and potentially to other countries involved in the CARDIO4Cities project. The compensation package includes a monthly living allowance, entry lump sum, exit allowance, and medical and life insurance. UN Volunteers are entitled to annual leave, certified sick leave, and learning leave, ensuring a supportive work-life balance. The position is designed for individuals who are adaptable and open-minded, ready to thrive in a bustling urban lifestyle while contributing to meaningful health initiatives.