National Professional Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, aiming to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The organization has been operational in Cabo Verde since 2009, working closely with the government and municipalities to advance policies and projects related to housing and urban development. Notably, since 2024, UN-Habitat has been implementing a Joint Programme funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, aimed at reducing poverty and addressing territorial disparities in access to basic services and economic opportunities. The Country Office in Praia provides managerial and technical support for projects across the country, reflecting the organization's commitment to sustainable urban development.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position is pivotal in coordinating the UN-Habitat's operations in Cabo Verde, particularly under the Joint Programme aimed at promoting local development. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Head of UN-Habitat's West Africa Hub and the overall supervision of the Programme Team Leader. This role involves providing managerial and technical support to the 'Promoting Local Development in Cabo Verde' programme, which encompasses urban and regional planning, local governance, and local finances. The officer will also engage with national and local authorities to advocate for UN-Habitat's initiatives and ensure the effective implementation of ongoing projects. The position requires a proactive approach to resource mobilization, programme development, and team management, ensuring that UN-Habitat's objectives are met while fostering partnerships with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a range of duties including: 1) Providing managerial and technical support to the 'Promoting Local Development in Cabo Verde' programme, overseeing urban and regional planning, local governance, and finances; 2) Acting as a Liaison Officer for the Government, coordinating with officials on UN-Habitat activities, and promoting awareness of the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals; 3) Supporting national authorities in organizing events related to UN-Habitat's mandate; 4) Leading the implementation of the Habitat Country Programme Document for Cabo Verde, identifying project opportunities, and supporting resource mobilization; 5) Supervising UN-Habitat team members in Cabo Verde, managing recruitment and procurement processes, and promoting knowledge management; 6) Collecting and analyzing data to inform decision-making and reporting; 7) Performing any other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of urban governance, urban and regional planning, and project management. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and a client-oriented approach. The ability to analyze data and convey information clearly is essential. Candidates should also show a commitment to gender perspectives and inclusivity in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in architecture, engineering, urban and regional planning, disaster risk management, urban sociology, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in project management related to urban development, housing, slum upgrading, and urban governance is required. Experience in liaising with national and local authorities, as well as working in an inter-cultural environment, is essential. Familiarity with the United Nations or similar organizations, along with experience in fundraising and resource mobilization, is desirable. Additionally, at least two years of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of Portuguese or French is desirable, and familiarity with any other UN language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to nationals of Cabo Verde only and is categorized as a National Professional Officer role. The appointment is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension. Candidates must be based in Cabo Verde or within commuting distance of the office. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities will be provided upon request.