Project Manager

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Position Title: Project Manager
Location: Astana
Country: Kazakhstan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. With a workforce of over 6,000 personnel across 80 countries, UNOPS provides essential project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to various governments, donors, and UN organizations. The organization is dedicated to sustainable project management and has a significant impact on the ground by implementing around 1,000 projects at any given time, often in challenging environments. The Austria Multi-Country Office (AUMCO), part of UNOPS Europe and Central Asia Region, focuses on achieving Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement through tailored interventions in the Balkans, South Caucasus, and Central Asia, emphasizing infrastructure, procurement, project management, HR services, grants management, and technical advisory services.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager will oversee the EU-funded Central Asia Civil Society Facility project, ensuring its effective management and delivery. This role involves coordinating with EU Delegations, UN Country Teams, and civil society partners to foster a conducive environment for civil society organizations (CSOs) in Central Asia. The project aims to enhance CSO participation in regional dialogues and capacity development, particularly focusing on young leaders and critical sustainable development topics such as climate change and digitalization. The Project Manager will be responsible for the overall project management, including monitoring, reporting, and ensuring collaboration between UNOPS and the Danish Institute for Human Rights. This position requires strong leadership and engagement skills to effectively deliver project outcomes and manage stakeholder relationships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager's responsibilities include developing and maintaining an implementation plan, managing project delivery and performance, ensuring compliance with UNOPS policies, overseeing project budgets and financial reporting, and preparing regular project reports. The role also involves stakeholder engagement, quality assurance, knowledge management, and personnel management. Specific duties include managing the project team, ensuring quality deliverables, monitoring project progress, identifying risks, and facilitating stakeholder communication. The Project Manager will also lead capacity-building activities for CSOs and ensure adherence to audit requirements, while fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related field. Certification in Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMI) is an asset. A minimum of 7 years of project management experience, preferably in the development sector, is required, along with at least 2 years of experience working with civil society organizations. Experience with international donors or development agencies, particularly the EU, is desired. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage multicultural teams and have prior experience in the Central Asia region or post-Soviet countries.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in relevant fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or Development Studies is required for this position. Additional certifications in project management methodologies like PRINCE2 or PMI would be beneficial and enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked in the development sector. At least 2 years of experience with civil society organizations is mandatory, and familiarity with the UN or other international organizations is desirable. A proven track record of managing projects funded by international donors, particularly the EU, is highly valued. Experience in managing multicultural teams and prior work in the Central Asia region or post-Soviet countries is considered a strong asset. Candidates should also be willing to travel frequently within the Central Asian region as needed by the project.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, along with full proficiency in Russian. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the ICS 11/IICA3 level, with an open-ended duration subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and aims to create an inclusive working environment. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks. Additionally, all personnel are expected to adhere to UNOPS policies and demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).