Programme Management Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS, established as a central resource of the United Nations, supports partners in building a better future by providing services that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to delivering sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to various stakeholders, including governments, donors, and UN organizations. The New York Portfolios Office (NYPO) specifically supports the UN Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations in fulfilling UNOPS's mandate.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Advisor will play a crucial role in the Spotlight Initiative 2.0, which aims to eliminate violence against women and girls (EVAWG). This position involves acting as the focal point for Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams, ensuring sound programme management and providing strategic, technical, and operational assistance in line with the Spotlight Initiative model. The advisor will coordinate the development of guidance for comprehensive programmes, facilitate communication between various stakeholders, and support the adaptation of the Spotlight Initiative model to different country contexts. The role requires a proactive approach to programme ideation, development, management, and closure, ensuring that the initiatives are tailored to local needs and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the development of strategic, programmatic, and operational guidance for Resident Coordinators’ Offices and UN Country Teams regarding comprehensive programmes aimed at ending violence against women and girls.
• Establish communication mechanisms between the Spotlight Initiative Secretariat and UN Country Teams.
• Develop protocols for mobilizing support from UN partners.
• Oversee the recruitment and supervision of consultants for programme design.
• Provide guidance on contextualizing the Spotlight Initiative model to local strategies.
• Support negotiations with various stakeholders, including governments and civil society.
• Ensure compliance with governance and accountability standards.
• Manage cash flow at the fund level to optimize programme implementation.
• Liaise with monitoring and evaluation teams to ensure coherent support for programme implementation. 1
• Supervise staff and consultants as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as International Relations, International Development, Public Administration, Political or Social Sciences, or a related area, along with 7 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) with 9 years of relevant experience will be considered. Required experience includes programme/project management and coordination, with a minimum of three years in developing countries, particularly in gender equality and human rights initiatives. Experience with multi-stakeholder pooled funding mechanisms, preferably within the UN, is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's) may be accepted with additional relevant work experience. The educational background should ideally focus on areas that support the understanding of international development and gender issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in programme/project management, with at least 3 years in developing countries. Experience in gender equality and human rights, particularly in EVAWG, is essential. Prior experience with UN funding mechanisms is also required, while experience in international organizations or UN Country Offices is desirable but not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking) is mandatory. Knowledge of French or Spanish is desirable, and proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract at the P4 level, initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. UNOPS encourages diversity and equal employment opportunities, particularly for women and underrepresented groups. The role is based in New York, USA, which is designated as a family duty station. UNOPS offers flexible working options and emphasizes work-life harmonization. Candidates must complete mandatory courses before commencing work, and recruitment is contingent on background checks.