Policy Specialist – Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship

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Position Title: Policy Specialist – Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship
Location: Bangkok
Country: Thailand
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization established to help countries achieve sustainable development and eradicate poverty. Founded in 1965, UNDP operates in over 170 countries, providing expertise and support to empower lives and build resilient nations. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel can contribute to its mission. UNDP is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and encourages applications from marginalized populations. The organization has a strong focus on youth empowerment, particularly through initiatives like Youth Co:Lab, which aims to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through youth leadership and social innovation.

Job Overview:
The Policy Specialist – Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship will play a crucial role in supporting the Youth Empowerment Portfolio (YEP-AP) project. This position involves leading the management of the Research and Thought Leadership Framework, as well as the Impact Measurement and Management Framework. The specialist will work closely with project co-leads and team members to ensure the achievement of project goals and objectives. The role requires a proactive approach to risk management, particularly in gender mainstreaming, and involves showcasing project activities through various media channels. The specialist will also liaise with UNDP country offices and other stakeholders to align the project with regional priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the management of the Research and Thought Leadership Framework of the YEP-AP project, ensuring synergies and achievement of project goals.
• Manage the Impact Measurement and Management Framework, supporting team members and monitoring progress.
• Support project risk management, particularly in gender mainstreaming.
• Showcase project activities through thought leadership opportunities, including media engagement and social media platforms.
• Liaise with relevant UNDP teams to ensure alignment with regional priorities.
• Perform any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, environmental management, social/political sciences, international relations, or related fields.
• A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the mentioned areas combined with 2 years of qualifying experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience with a Master’s degree or 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree in youth empowerment, entrepreneurship ecosystem, and inclusive transitions.
• At least 4 years of experience in youth empowerment or development.
• Proven knowledge of youth empowerment and entrepreneurship issues in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Full computer literacy in Microsoft Office and proficiency in graphic design and video editing software is a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in relevant fields such as sustainable development, environmental management, social/political sciences, or international relations. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) combined with additional qualifying experience may be considered. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or 7 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have substantial experience in youth empowerment, entrepreneurship ecosystems, and inclusive transitions. At least 4 years of experience specifically in youth empowerment or development is necessary, along with proven knowledge of the issues affecting youth in the Asia-Pacific region.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position will be effective immediately upon signature by UNDP. The Policy Specialist will report to the Regional Youth and Civil Society Specialist and work closely with the Regional Youth Project Manager. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires timely delivery of project components. UNDP emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified individuals.