Programme Associate

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Programme Associate
Location: Praia
Country: Cabo Verde
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, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The Joint Office in Cabo Verde, which includes UNDP, UNICEF, and UNFPA, was established in 2006 as part of UN reform to harmonize and simplify UN activities in small countries, focusing on sustainable development aligned with the National Sustainable Development Plan and Agenda 2030.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate plays a crucial role in supporting the effective delivery of the Country Office (CO) programme by managing data and supporting programme implementation in accordance with UN rules and regulations. This position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including operations, programme, strategic management, and project staff within the Joint Office, as well as project partners in government, civil society, and donor institutions. The Programme Associate is expected to contribute to the formulation of programme strategies, manage the CO programme, provide administrative support, assist in resource mobilization, and facilitate knowledge building and sharing. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to achieving results through teamwork and compliance with internal controls.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supports the formulation of programme strategies by collecting, analyzing, and presenting background information for the preparation of the UN Multi-country Sustainable Development Framework and Country Programme Document. This includes drafting project documents, work plans, budgets, and proposals.
• Provides effective support to the management of the CO programme by creating projects in Quantum, preparing budget revisions, and ensuring operational and financial closure of projects. This involves guiding executing agencies on project implementation and supporting audit processes.
• Offers administrative support to the Programme Unit, including reviewing financial reports, maintaining internal expenditure control systems, and organizing programme events and meetings.
• Assists in resource mobilization by collecting information on donors, preparing donor profiles, and tracking mobilized resources.
• Facilitates knowledge building and sharing by preparing knowledge products, organizing training for staff, and synthesizing lessons learned and best practices. The incumbent may also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary education with demonstrable knowledge and interest in development, preferably with specialized certification in Accounting and Finance, or a university degree in Development Studies, Economics, Business Administration, Political Sciences, Social Sciences, or Environmental Sciences. A minimum of 6 years of relevant administrative or programme experience is required for those with a high school diploma, or 3 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Proficiency in computer applications and office software, as well as experience with web-based management systems, is essential. Experience with international development agencies is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes secondary education with specialized certification in relevant fields or a university degree in areas such as Development Studies, Economics, Business Administration, Political Sciences, Social Sciences, or Environmental Sciences. While a degree is not mandatory, it is highly desirable and can enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible administrative or programme experience at the national or international level for candidates with a high school diploma, or 3 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Relevant experience in managing projects, administrative tasks, and familiarity with international development contexts is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Excellent working knowledge of French or English is required, along with fluency in the national language of the duty station, which is Portuguese for local staff. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment is for a duration of 12 months, contingent upon successful completion of a probationary period. The position does not involve supervisory or managerial responsibilities. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized or excluded populations. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and candidates will undergo rigorous background checks. UNDP does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.