Individual Consultant/Ecosystem Manager for the timbuktoo HealthTech Hub

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, poverty reduction, crisis prevention and recovery, environment and sustainable development, and gender equality. UNDP has a diverse workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide, dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people and communities.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant/Ecosystem Manager for the timbuktoo HealthTech Hub is a critical role aimed at fostering a robust HealthTech innovation ecosystem in Rwanda and across Africa. The consultant will be responsible for ecosystem mapping, stakeholder engagement, and community coordination. This role requires a proactive approach to building relationships with various stakeholders including startups, investors, universities, government institutions, and health-sector actors. The consultant will also be tasked with enhancing the visibility of the HealthTech Hub through effective communication strategies and event coordination. The assignment is expected to last from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027, with a total of 240 working days. The consultant will work closely with the Programme Manager and Hub Manager, ensuring alignment with the broader objectives of the timbuktoo Initiative and UNDP's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Consultant/Ecosystem Manager include:

• Conducting comprehensive ecosystem mapping to identify key stakeholders and resources within the HealthTech sector.
• Engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders including startups, investors, universities, and government entities to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Coordinating community events and activities to promote the HealthTech Hub and its initiatives.
• Managing communication and visibility efforts to enhance the Hub's profile and outreach.
• Maintaining databases of stakeholders and partners to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Documenting results, success stories, and lessons learned to inform future initiatives and strategies.
• Ensuring quality assurance in all activities and outputs related to the Hub.
• Reporting on progress and outcomes to the Programme Manager and other relevant stakeholders.
• Supporting the coordination of partnerships and collaborations with various ecosystem actors. 1
• Participating in authorized missions within Rwanda and other African locations as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a set of qualifications that include:

• Proven experience in ecosystem management, particularly in the HealthTech or innovation sectors.
• Strong understanding of stakeholder engagement and community coordination.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse groups.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in data management and reporting.
• Familiarity with the UNDP's mission and operations is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public health, business administration, social sciences, or a related discipline. A Master's degree or higher qualification in a relevant area will be considered an asset, particularly for roles involving complex stakeholder engagement and ecosystem management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in ecosystem management, innovation facilitation, or a related field. Experience working with health-sector stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, and development partners, is highly desirable. Previous experience in managing community-based initiatives or programs will also be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Kinyarwanda or French would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and enhance engagement efforts within the community.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time contract role for a duration of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs. The consultant will primarily be based in Kigali, Rwanda, but may be required to travel to other locations within Rwanda and across Africa as part of their duties. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in line with UNDP's policies for individual contractors.