Senior Urban Programme Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an agency of the United Nations established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It was mandated by the UN General Assembly and operates globally, focusing on improving urban planning and management. UN-Habitat has a significant presence in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly through its Regional Office for Africa (ROAf), which supports various countries in developing human settlements projects to address rapid urbanization and achieve sustainable urban development. The organization is involved in numerous projects across different countries, including those in the West Africa region, particularly in the Central Sahel area, where it is expanding its portfolio to address the challenges posed by urbanization and conflict.

Job Overview:
The Senior Urban Programme Development Specialist will play a crucial role in developing urban-related projects and programmes in West Africa, particularly focusing on the Sahel region. This position involves providing senior technical support for the implementation of EU-funded projects in Burkina Faso and Mali. The specialist will work closely with national and local authorities to improve urban planning and management capacities, addressing the needs and demands identified in the region. The role requires a strategic approach to project development, ensuring that initiatives are aligned with the overarching goals of UN-Habitat and responsive to the unique challenges faced by the Sahel region, including conflict, displacement, and climate change impacts. The specialist will also be responsible for mobilizing technical capacity at the West Africa Sub-Regional Hub and supporting ongoing initiatives to enhance urban resilience and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Urban Programme Development Specialist include:

• Developing at least two sub-regional or multi-country concept notes or project proposals that provide continuity to ongoing projects, including identifying potential sources of funding and engaging in project development negotiations.
• Providing senior technical advice and support in project development to at least four country programmes to maintain and expand their current portfolios.
• Offering senior technical expertise for the implementation of ongoing EU-funded programmes in Burkina Faso and Mali, focusing on community participatory planning, social cohesion promotion, land management, adequate housing design, basic services solutions, and local economic development strategies.
• Liaising with UN-Habitat Headquarters to ensure that proposal development is linked with existing tools and knowledge within thematic sections.
• Supporting project acquisition processes by navigating through the Project Review Committee mechanism.
• Conducting scoping or support missions as necessary to refine the formulation of project proposals. The ultimate goal of these responsibilities is to develop urban-related projects and programmes that address the identified needs and funding opportunities in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in urban planning, urban management, architecture, engineering, or international cooperation. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must have a minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience at the regional and/or international level in human settlements, specifically in urban planning, urban development, or related fields. A strong understanding of UN-Habitat’s mandate, principles, and operations is desirable, indicating that candidates should be familiar with the agency's goals and how they align with sustainable urban development.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as urban planning, urban management, architecture, engineering, or international cooperation. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to be considered for the position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to urban programme development in the complex context of West Africa.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience at the regional and/or international level, specifically in the areas of human settlements, urban planning, urban development, or related fields. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of urban issues in the Sahel region and for effectively contributing to the development and implementation of projects that address these challenges. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of working in similar roles, showcasing their ability to navigate the intricacies of urban management and development in diverse contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required, as English is one of the official working languages of the United Nations. Additionally, knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another official working language of the UN. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration with various stakeholders in the region, particularly in West Africa where both languages are commonly used.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of 3 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates. The role is focused on providing senior technical support and expertise, indicating a seniority level that requires significant experience and knowledge in urban programme development.