Programme Manager: Inclusive Governance Initiative (IGI)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization plays a crucial role in integrating collective action across various sectors to ensure that no one is left behind in development processes. UNDP's Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) is responsible for developing policies and guidance to support the results of UNDP's Strategic Plan, providing technical advice to Country Offices, and engaging in multi-stakeholder dialogues. The HIV & Health Group (HHG) within BPPS implements global projects addressing inequalities and human rights issues that affect health outcomes, particularly for marginalized populations, including LGBTI+ communities. The Inclusive Governance Initiative (IGI) is a significant component of HHG's global health and rights project, funded primarily by Sweden's development cooperation agency, Sida, and aims to support countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to be more inclusive of sexual and gender minorities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Manager: IGI will lead and manage the Inclusive Governance Initiative, ensuring alignment with available resources and relevant project documents and donor agreements. This role involves shaping the strategic direction of IGI in consultation with various stakeholders, mobilizing resources, managing donor relations, and building partnerships with national and regional entities. The Programme Manager will oversee the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of IGI activities, directly managing a regional team of consultants who provide technical support to UNDP country offices and partners. Additionally, the Programme Manager will collaborate with the Programme Manager of the Young Key Population Initiative to achieve shared goals related to the inclusion of young key populations and sexual and gender minorities in Africa. UNDP's portfolio approach requires personnel to work across various issues and teams to enhance collaboration and address interconnected development challenges.

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

• Management of IGI project activities: Oversee planning, implementation, monitoring, and financial management of IGI, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and procedures.
• Coordinate administrative, financial, procurement, and programmatic management of IGI.
• Establish effective operating procedures for project management and ensure compliance throughout implementation.
• Ensure timely execution of project activities in line with agreements with the Government of Sweden and the Global HIV & Health Project Document.
• Liaise with M&E specialists to oversee the project's monitoring and evaluation system.
• Provide oversight on programmatic impact and ensure timely reporting to UNDP and donors.
• Provide intellectual leadership on sexual and gender minority rights and inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Mobilize and strengthen strategic partnerships with UN and other relevant bodies.
• Represent the initiative in corporate discussions and interagency coordination. 1
• Develop strategies for mobilizing additional financial resources. 1
• Promote community of practice and knowledge management within the team and across UNDP.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Development Studies, Business Administration, Public Health, Law, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in LGBTI+ and HIV key population work in multiple African countries (12 years with a bachelor’s degree).
• Proven technical expertise in providing policy advisory support on LGBTI+ and HIV issues in Africa.
• Demonstrated ability to raise funds and maintain productive donor relations.
• Experience working with African civil society organizations, either directly or through technical support.
• Familiarity with UNDP and the broader UN development system is desirable, along with experience in capacity development programs for government and community groups.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Development Studies, Business Administration, Public Health, or Law. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in LGBTI+ and HIV key population work across multiple African countries, with 12 years required for candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have a proven track record in providing policy advisory support, fundraising, and managing donor relations, as well as experience working with civil society organizations in Africa. Desirable experience includes at least 15 years in the field, familiarity with UNDP, and experience in managing multi-country projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of French, Portuguese, or vernacular African languages is considered an asset and is desirable for effective communication in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with a probationary period for new UNDP staff. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace free from harassment and discrimination. The organization reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions.