National Programme Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, commonly known as UN-Habitat, was established by the UN General Assembly with the mission to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. Its primary goal is to provide adequate shelter for all, focusing on transforming urban areas into safer, healthier, and greener places. UN-Habitat collaborates with various organizations, including government entities, civil society, and the private sector, to facilitate sustainable urban development. The organization operates in multiple countries across the globe, with a significant presence in Africa, where it has established sub-regional hubs to enhance its effectiveness in addressing urban challenges.

Job Overview:
The National Programme Expert position is integral to the UN-Habitat's efforts in Botswana, particularly in the context of sustainable urban development and governance. The expert will be responsible for producing reports and documents that address current and future challenges in urban governance, ensuring that these documents are transparent and contribute to the future of urban development in Botswana. The role involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government entities and civil society, to prioritize issues that require immediate action. The expert will also engage in capacity building and provide technical assistance to enhance urban planning and management in Botswana, aligning with the country's ambitions for a high-income digital economy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Establish a collaborative platform among UN-Habitat, Government of Botswana entities, civil society organizations, private sector, and development partners to achieve sustainable development goals.
• Provide normative support and advisory services to the Government of Botswana on urban planning, adequate housing, smart cities, waste management, and climate change.
• Strengthen the capacities of national and subnational institutions for effective urban management and development through academic partnerships.
• Enhance regional collaboration through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to promote sustainable urbanization and resource mobilization.
• Increase UN-Habitat's presence and effectiveness in the Southern African sub-region, addressing complex urban challenges and facilitating knowledge exchange.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of three years of progressive experience in multi-disciplinary human settlements development assistance, field project coordination, or project management is required. Experience with UN-Habitat or other UN agencies is highly desirable, showcasing the candidate's familiarity with international standards and practices in urban development.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, or Urban Planning. Candidates with a first-level university degree may still qualify if they have additional relevant experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of urban development and governance.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of progressive experience in fields related to human settlements development, project coordination, or management. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to navigate complex urban issues and contribute effectively to sustainable development initiatives. Familiarity with UN-Habitat or similar organizations is considered an asset, as it indicates an understanding of the operational frameworks and challenges faced in urban settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential for effective communication and reporting. Knowledge of French or another UN official language is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months, indicating a fixed-term contract. There are no additional notes regarding compensation or benefits provided in the job description. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.