National Project Specialist

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, peacebuilding, climate change, and sustainable development. UNDP is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind, and fostering partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The National Project Specialist will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of an integrated project portfolio aimed at addressing the humanitarian and development crisis in Yemen. This position is critical in providing strategic coordination and management support for three key projects: RESOLVE, LoGABD, and SANABEL. The incumbent will ensure that project activities are executed on time, within budget, and meet the highest quality standards, adhering to UNDP rules and regulations. The role emphasizes governance and institutional strengthening, requiring exceptional leadership and stakeholder management skills to navigate the complexities of a fragile and conflict-affected environment. The National Project Specialist will report directly to the Project Manager and will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day implementation of project activities, particularly focusing on governance and institutional strengthening components.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Advise and support Project Management, Implementation and Coordination: Develop and oversee the Project’s work plan, activities, targets, and budget. Ensure the achievement of project outputs in line with the approved Annual Work Plan. Coordinate project activities with government institutions, particularly the Ministry of Local Administration and other relevant authorities. Facilitate the operationalization of Local Economic Development Councils and Local Development Funds. Support the institutionalization of governorate-level Training Departments as capacity development hubs.
• Ensure Financial Management and Reporting: Manage project funds efficiently, ensuring accountability and accuracy in financial reporting. Monitor financial resources and provide updates to the Project Manager on financial performance. Liaise with Responsible Parties on financial management and ensure integrity in financial systems.
• Build Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilization: Engage with partners, including the European Union and other stakeholders, to maximize project synergies. Maintain dialogue with government officials and civil society to ensure understanding of project objectives. Support the establishment of multi-stakeholder coordination mechanisms.
• Advise and support Results-based management, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting: Provide guidance on achieving project results and contribute to the production of reports and proposals. Manage project risks and ensure proper monitoring and evaluation procedures are in place.
• Advise and support Governance and Institutional Strengthening: Implement governance and institutional strengthening activities, including public financial management reform and capacity development for local authorities. Support digital transformation initiatives in revenue management and procurement standards.
• Lead Knowledge building and management: Capture and disseminate lessons learned and best practices. Document good practices for replication and scaling, and participate in international knowledge networks.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience with a Master's degree or 9 years with a Bachelor's degree in project development and management, particularly in (post-) conflict settings. Proven experience in governance and institutional strengthening programming is essential, including public financial management and capacity development for local authorities. Candidates should have strong skills in project management, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a complex environment. Knowledge of UNDP policies and programming frameworks is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Public Administration, Public Policy, Development Studies, Conflict Management, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above fields combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of progressive work experience in project development and management in a (post-) conflict setting, with a focus on governance, core government functions, and community engagement. Experience in supporting decentralization and local governance reform is preferred, particularly in fragile or conflict-affected contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic (spoken and written) is required for this position. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, tailoring messages to different audiences as necessary.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to both internal and external applicants, and UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The role may involve working in a high-risk environment, and candidates should be prepared to manage safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security concerns. UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.