Project Lead - Capacity Enhancement

Job Posting Organization:
The UNOPS Global Portfolios Office (GPO) is a key entity within the United Nations Operations and Projects Services (UNOPS) that focuses on delivering impactful results worldwide. Established to support the UN's strategic priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), GPO operates in over 130 countries, leveraging diverse expertise to advance sustainable development, climate action, and peacebuilding initiatives. With hubs located in New York, Geneva, and Vienna, GPO collaborates with various global partners, including governments, international financial institutions, and UN agencies, to provide a wide range of services such as project management, fund management, and HR support. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, ensuring that all personnel are treated with respect and have equal access to opportunities.

Job Overview:
The Project Lead - Capacity Enhancement is tasked with leading capacity building initiatives aimed at enhancing the sustainability and impact of mine action programs. This role involves working closely with national authorities and international stakeholders to ensure that mine action programs are effectively integrated into national frameworks. The Project Lead will provide technical expertise in the design, planning, and implementation of capacity enhancement initiatives, ensuring alignment with UNMAS strategic objectives and national priorities. The position requires a strong focus on institutional development, policy enhancement, and resource mobilization strategies, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and promoting best practices in capacity enhancement. The role also emphasizes the importance of gender equality and social inclusion in all aspects of capacity building efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Lead include supporting the Head of Project Unit and Head of Operations in the design and planning of capacity enhancement initiatives. This involves ensuring that implementation plans are viable, resources are appropriately allocated, and compliance with UNOPS and UNMAS policies is maintained. The Project Lead will facilitate interventions aimed at strengthening national ownership and governance in mine action, monitor performance of third-party contracts, and ensure adherence to technical and operational standards. Additionally, the role requires advising on capacity enhancement activities, integrating gender equality and social inclusion considerations, and managing stakeholder engagement. The Project Lead will also be responsible for knowledge management related to capacity enhancement, advocating for the integration of mine action into broader humanitarian and development frameworks, and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a First Level University Degree (Bachelor’s degree) with at least 7 years of relevant experience may be accepted. Relevant experience is defined as experience in project management within humanitarian, conflict, post-conflict, or development contexts, with a minimum of 2 years specifically in capacity enhancement or capacity building. Desired qualifications include experience in policy advice, working with national authorities, and integrating gender equality and social inclusion into capacity development efforts.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree) in a relevant field such as international relations, development studies, or a related discipline. In lieu of a Master’s Degree, a Bachelor’s degree with substantial relevant experience may be considered. Candidates should have a strong understanding of project management principles and practices, particularly in the context of humanitarian and development work.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience for candidates with a Master’s Degree, or 7 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should include project management in humanitarian, conflict, or development contexts, with at least 2 years specifically focused on capacity enhancement or capacity building. Experience working with national authorities and in humanitarian mine action is highly desirable, as is knowledge of gender equality and social inclusion practices.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages, as they will be required to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and partners. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the mid-level (ICS 10) and is offered under an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) as a Specialist on a regular basis. The contract is ongoing, and candidates should be aware that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes. Applications must be submitted before midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date. UNOPS is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Background checks will be conducted for all final candidates to ensure compliance with UNOPS standards.