International Programme Specialist

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Position Title: International Programme Specialist
Location: Mogadishu
Country: Somalia
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network that advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to empower all personnel to contribute to its mission while ensuring fairness in all actions. UNDP is committed to safeguarding against sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and conducts rigorous background checks on selected candidates.

Job Overview:
The International Programme Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Dowlaad-Kaab Programme, which focuses on strengthening local governance and decentralized service delivery in Somalia. This position involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including UN agencies and local governments, to ensure effective planning, execution, and monitoring of the programme's activities. The specialist will lead the development of annual work plans and budgets, facilitate community engagement, and ensure compliance with relevant guidelines. The role requires a strategic approach to resource mobilization and partnership building, as well as a commitment to knowledge sharing and capacity development within local governance frameworks. The specialist will also be responsible for ensuring that the programme aligns with the broader goals of UNDP and its partners, fostering collaborative and participatory development at the local level.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure strategic direction and management of the Dowlaad-Kaab Programme, facilitating day-to-day implementation and achieving targets as outlined in the work plan. Oversee compliance with government and UN guidelines, organize community engagement events, and prepare high-quality reports on programme performance.
• Plan, budget, and execute the programme effectively by coaching the preparation of annual work plans and budgets, conducting regular monitoring, and facilitating timely fund disbursement. Organize programme meetings and maintain documentation of actions and decisions.
• Create and nurture strategic partnerships to support resource mobilization for the programme. Establish relationships with public and development partners, identify opportunities for collaboration, and ensure visibility of the programme.
• Facilitate knowledge building and management by identifying best practices, contributing to knowledge networks, and generating knowledge products for sharing and operationalization beyond the programme's lifespan.
• Ensure effective stakeholder coordination and management by liaising with implementing partners and maintaining strong relations with stakeholders, ensuring activities are implemented according to the agreed work plan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Administration, Local Development, International Development, Political Science, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in local governance and decentralization is required, with previous field experience in fragile countries like Somalia being essential. Experience in project management and coordination, particularly in the context of UN Joint Programmes, is desired. Candidates should demonstrate advanced knowledge of managing large teams using collaborative IT systems and have experience working with high-level stakeholders in both public and private sectors.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Public Administration, Local Development, International Development, or Political Science is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with additional qualifying experience will be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of local governance and development in fragile contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master’s degree, or 9 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience in local governance and decentralization, particularly in fragile countries like Somalia, is essential. Candidates should have a strong background in project management, programme coordination, and monitoring, preferably within the context of UN Joint Programmes. Extensive experience working with local communities and engaging with various stakeholders is also desired, along with proven resource mobilization skills.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN language is desirable, and proficiency in the Somali language will be considered an asset. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position does not specify a deadline for applications. It is important to note that UNDP has 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 marginalized or excluded populations. The role is full-time and may involve working in a complex and dynamic environment, requiring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.