Programme Coordination Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, commonly known as UN-Habitat, is the United Nations agency responsible for promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. Established by the UN General Assembly, UN-Habitat aims to provide adequate housing and shelter for all. The organization focuses on advocacy, policy advice, capacity building, and the development of tools and standards based on best practices. With a strategic plan for 2026-2029, UN-Habitat emphasizes access to adequate housing, land, and basic services, particularly for vulnerable populations such as migrants and internally displaced persons. The organization operates in numerous countries, addressing urbanization challenges and supporting local authorities in implementing sustainable urban development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordination Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the effective implementation of the Somalia Country Programme, specifically focusing on Durable Solutions for Displacement Affected Communities. This position involves coordinating various projects and ensuring that they align with the overarching goals of UN-Habitat. The expert will work closely with project teams, government officials, and other stakeholders to facilitate the delivery of integrated durable solutions programming. The role requires a strong understanding of project management, financial oversight, and administrative processes to ensure that all activities are executed smoothly and efficiently. The expert will also be responsible for monitoring progress, analyzing challenges, and proposing solutions to enhance project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The individual contractor will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: leading the overall coordination and management of Durable Solutions Programmes; ensuring the smooth implementation of work plans; monitoring progress and analyzing challenges; assisting in the management of Agreements of Corporation with implementing partners; contributing to planning and budgeting processes; facilitating coordination among partners and government actors; drafting Terms of Reference for external consultants; undertaking field missions to project locations; coordinating budget-related activities; and providing technical support for Durable Solutions Programming. The expert will also be responsible for communication with donors and government counterparts, ensuring that all activities align with agreed priorities and frameworks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in International Studies, Development Studies, or social sciences relevant to human settlements management. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project coordination or a related field is required. Experience in managing complex multi-partner projects, particularly in the context of migration and durable solutions for displaced communities, is essential. Prior experience working with UN agencies or similar institutions in Somalia is highly desirable, as is experience working with government counterparts and local authorities.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as International Studies, Development Studies, or social sciences related to human settlements. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of urban management and development issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project coordination or a related field. This experience should include managing complex projects involving multiple partners and sectors, particularly in areas related to migration and durable solutions for displaced communities. Experience in crisis response, preparedness, and resilience in urban management is also important. Familiarity with the operational context in Somalia and previous work with UN agencies or similar organizations will be advantageous.

Languages:
Strong written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Fluency in the Somali language is considered desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of project implementation.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. This includes application, interview, and training stages. The organization emphasizes that it does not require any financial information from applicants, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.