Coordination Specialist

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Position Title: Coordination Specialist
Location: Addis Ababa
Country: Ethiopia
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization is committed to achieving workforce diversity and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. UNDP is recognized as the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development within the UN System, serving as an integrator for collective action to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UNDP Regional Service Centre for Africa (RSCA), located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, plays a crucial role in supporting Africa's governments and institutions to address challenges and consolidate gains towards achieving the SDGs and the African Union Agenda 206

• The RSCA collaborates with various UNDP Country Offices and regional bodies, ensuring effective implementation of development initiatives across the continent.

Job Overview:
The Coordination Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the RSCA Director, focusing on fostering strong substantive engagement within and across RSCA teams. This role involves supporting coordination and planning processes aligned with the UNDP Strategic Plan and the Renewed Strategic Offer for Africa. The specialist will collaborate closely with technical advisors and experts from various program units and hubs to ensure successful coordination of RSCA activities. As a member of the Joint Secretariat of the Africa Regional Collaboration Platform (RCP), the Coordination Specialist will contribute to enhancing the coherence of RSCA's support to regional organizations and Country Offices. The position requires a proactive approach to facilitate communication, partnership building, and resource mobilization, ensuring that the RSCA effectively addresses the development needs of the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Coordination Specialist's key duties include providing advisory support to the RSCA Director for coherent internal coordination and integration mechanisms. This involves advising on the implementation of a vision for the RSCA, ensuring delivery of commitments, and facilitating meetings such as the Senior Management Group and Inter-practice Coordination Group. The specialist will also provide technical support for programming and monitoring processes, ensuring alignment with UNDP strategic frameworks. Additionally, the role includes contributing to effective communication and partnership efforts, collating information for reports and presentations, and optimizing UNDP's efforts through administrative support to the RCP. The specialist will be responsible for organizing annual meetings, liaising with stakeholders, and tracking progress on RCP implementation. Other duties may include supporting member state engagement and facilitating partnerships with the African Union and other regional institutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as Economics, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Sciences, Development, Management, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with an additional two years of relevant work experience will be considered in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience at the national or international level in development, management, and cooperation is required, with experience in coordination, communications, and policy analysis being highly desirable. Experience working with UNDP or government in developing country settings, particularly in Africa, is preferred. Skills in building strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and donor reporting are also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Economics, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Sciences, Development, Management, or a related area. Candidates with a first-level university degree in these areas, combined with additional relevant work experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of development work and effectively contributing to the UNDP's mission.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master’s degree, or seven years for those with a bachelor’s degree. This experience should be at the national or international level in areas such as development, management, cooperation, coordination, and communications. Familiarity with UNDP operations and experience in developing country settings, particularly in Africa, are highly desirable. Candidates should also have a proven track record in building strategic partnerships and engaging with multiple stakeholders, as well as experience in resource mobilization and analytical reporting.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official working language is considered desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the diverse UNDP environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period, with an initial appointment duration of 12 months. The UNDP emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals of various backgrounds. Additionally, candidates should be aware of the implications of accepting a position with UNDP, particularly for US Permanent Residents, who may need to relinquish their status or apply for US citizenship prior to employment. UNDP does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process, and candidates are advised to be cautious of any solicitations for payment.