Project Management Support Specialist for Mainstreaming Anti-Corruption in Clusters/Chapters (Retainer Position)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an independent UN organization established in 1995, succeeding two decades of operations as part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since its inception in 197

• UNOPS aims to help people build better lives and assist countries in achieving peace and sustainable development. As a self-financed UN organization, it is committed to UN values while also emphasizing private sector efficiency. In Serbia, UNOPS has been operational since 2000, focusing on socio-economic reforms and facilitating European Union accession. The organization implements projects funded by the European Union, the Governments of Switzerland, Sweden, Serbia, and various UN organizations. UNOPS Serbia Multi-Country Office (RSMCO) also extends its support to Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, assessing needs for potential engagements. The work of UNOPS aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the broader objectives of the countries it operates in.

Job Overview:
The Project Management Support (PMS) Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the office of the Deputy President of the Government in Charge for Good Governance Policies in North Macedonia. The primary focus of this position is to effectively mainstream anti-corruption measures in alignment with the EU acquis and the Negotiation Framework. The PMS Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, providing technical expertise to the Ministry for European Affairs (MEA) and the Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) for Good Governance. This role involves addressing accession negotiation requirements, identifying gaps and opportunities, and providing capacity building and recommendations for mainstreaming anti-corruption. The PMS Specialist will also contribute to strengthening the capacities of the MEA and the Cabinet of DPM for Good Governance through targeted capacity building activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PMS Specialist will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the operationalization and piloting of anti-corruption mainstreaming guidelines/methodology in selected chapters or sectors.
• Assisting institutions in applying the methodology to real negotiation documents such as screening reports, negotiation positions, and sector action plans.
• Monitoring the initial application of the guidelines/methodology and refining tools based on feedback received.
• Facilitating coordination between the MEA, the Cabinet of the DPM for Good Governance, and relevant sectoral institutions.
• Providing expert advice to the MEA and the DPM for Good Governance in drafting negotiation positions and relevant documents.
• Delivering targeted capacity building and mentoring to key staff involved in the anti-corruption efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in public administration, public policy, political science, law, economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of five years of experience in developing anti-corruption policy/strategy documents and methodologies is required. Candidates should have a good understanding of the anti-corruption context in North Macedonia and experience working with government institutions and NGOs in this area. Knowledge of the EU Rule of Law Mechanism and experience in data collection related to corruption and organized crime will be considered assets. Experience in anti-corruption efforts in Western Balkans countries and capacity building activities is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in public administration, public policy, political science, law, economics, or a relevant discipline is required. A bachelor's degree with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree, allowing for flexibility in educational qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience, particularly in developing anti-corruption policies and strategies. Experience working with governmental and non-governmental organizations in the anti-corruption sector is essential. Familiarity with the EU Rule of Law Mechanism and a track record in data collection related to corruption and organized crime will be beneficial. Additionally, experience in capacity building activities related to anti-corruption is an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English, including speaking, reading, and writing, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in other languages relevant to the region may be considered an advantage but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) on a retainer basis, classified at level IICA 2 (ICS 10). The contract duration is up to 50 working days within a one-year period. Candidates based in a duty station with a national scale may be offered a local equivalent position. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups. All candidates must submit a CV and cover letter with their application. UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than advertised and conducts background checks on all potential personnel.