National Project Coordinator (Public Policy/Technical/Finance Lead)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate and disaster resilience, and sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, collaborating with various stakeholders to implement projects that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator will oversee the implementation of the Circular Solutions to Plastic Pollution project in Morocco, which is part of a larger GEF-funded initiative aimed at addressing the root causes of plastic pollution. This position requires a strong focus on upstream and midstream solutions in the food and beverage sector, aiming to eliminate single-use plastics and promote circular economy practices. The Coordinator will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and civil society, to ensure the project's objectives are met. The role involves significant coordination, technical guidance, and partnership-building to foster collaboration and achieve the desired outcomes of the project. The Coordinator will also be responsible for monitoring progress, reporting on project activities, and ensuring alignment with national and global initiatives related to plastic pollution and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Coordinator's responsibilities include coordinating all aspects of the project implementation, providing technical guidance, and ensuring high-quality outputs. Key duties involve: 1) Developing and managing project work plans and budgets; 2) Coordinating with the Project Manager and other team members to align technical implementation with project management processes; 3) Preparing technical inputs for terms of reference and contractor deliverables; 4) Monitoring financial and administrative processes; 5) Facilitating linkages with the Global Child Project to ensure national deliverables contribute to program-wide learning; 6) Promoting the project with stakeholders and ensuring alignment with national strategies; 7) Contributing to the preparation of reports and documentation; 8) Leading studies and consultancies related to the project; 9) Ensuring gender equality and social inclusion considerations are integrated into project activities; 10) Performing other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong knowledge of Morocco’s environmental and industrial context, along with demonstrated diplomatic and negotiating skills. Proven technical expertise in waste management, plastics, climate change, and circular economy is essential. Strong leadership, negotiation, advocacy, and partnership-building skills are required, particularly with the private sector. Familiarity with gender mainstreaming approaches and stakeholder engagement is also necessary. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, proficiency in IT and office software, and the ability to manage communications effectively are critical for this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental management, sustainable development, chemical engineering, or circular economy is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A PhD in relevant fields is an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in plastics, chemical safety, sustainable industry, or related fields if they hold a master's degree. Those with a bachelor's degree should have at least 7 years of relevant experience. Experience in managing donor-funded projects, particularly with UN agencies or international organizations, is highly desirable. Familiarity with circular economy projects and experience working with government, private sector, and civil society partners in Morocco is also preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in French and Arabic is required for this position, while a working knowledge of English is desirable. This linguistic proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the successful implementation of project activities.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a duration of 5 years with an annually renewable contract, subject to a probation period of six months. The role is full-time and involves significant collaboration with various stakeholders, including UNIDO and the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring an inclusive workplace. The organization does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining high standards of integrity and professionalism.