Senior Project Manager

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Position Title: Senior 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 sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to various governments, donors, and UN organizations. The organization is dedicated to making significant contributions to results on the ground, often in challenging environments, by managing around 1,000 projects at any given time. The Austria Multi-Country Office (AUMCO), part of the 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 Senior 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 operating environment for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Central Asia. The project aims to enhance regional engagement among CSOs, focusing on critical themes such as the environment, climate change, and youth engagement. The Project Manager will be responsible for capacity development initiatives for CSOs, ensuring they can operate effectively within legal frameworks. The position requires active collaboration with various stakeholders and the establishment of a project office in Astana to manage regional activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will be responsible for the following duties:

• Develop and maintain an updated implementation plan for the project, ensuring all substantive and managerial elements are delivered effectively.
• Implement the approved plan, establishing milestones and ensuring compliance with UNOPS quality assurance mechanisms.
• Manage the project team to deliver required outputs, taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Ensure quality compliance of work packages and deliverables, particularly in engagements with civil society and young leaders.
• Liaise with external partners and manage the acceptance and delivery of work packages.
• Monitor project progress and manage changes effectively.
• Identify potential risks and advise senior management on mitigating measures.
• Oversee compliance with organizational policies and prepare relevant plans for approval.
• Manage project budgets, cash flow, and financial reporting obligations. 1
• Prepare regular project and financial reports as required. 1
• Act as a liaison between stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and collaboration. 1
• Ensure compliance with audit requirements and coordinate quality reviews of project documents. 1
• Lead and motivate the project management team, ensuring a culture of respect and accountability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related discipline. Certification in Project Management (such as PRINCE2 or PMI) is considered an asset. A minimum of 7 years of project management experience, preferably in the development sector, is required. Candidates must have at least 2 years of experience working with civil society organizations, either directly or through public organizations that support CSOs. Experience with international organizations, particularly the UN, and managing projects funded by international donors is desired. Proven ability to manage multicultural teams and prior experience in the Central Asia region are strong assets. Willingness to travel frequently within the region is expected.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related discipline is required for this position. Additionally, certification in project management methodologies like PRINCE2 or PMI would be advantageous, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

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, which can be through direct employment or collaboration with public organizations that engage with CSOs. Experience with international organizations, particularly the UN, and managing projects funded by international donors or development agencies is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience managing multicultural teams and a proven track record in the Central Asia region or post-Soviet countries. The role may require frequent travel within the Central Asian region, sometimes on short notice.

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 for the successful execution of project responsibilities.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), with a contract level of ICS 11/IICA

• The duration of the contract is open-ended, 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, for staff positions, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.