National Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. UNDP operates in 170 countries and territories, working closely with governments and communities to address global and national development challenges. The organization focuses on reducing inequalities and social exclusion, promoting effective governance for health, and building resilient health systems. UNDP has been a trusted partner of The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, providing integrated development solutions to strengthen health service delivery in over 53 countries since 200

• UNDP's approach emphasizes proactive risk management and sustainability, ensuring that health programs are implemented effectively and in alignment with national strategies.

Job Overview:
The National Programme Specialist will play a crucial role in providing technical, advisory, and strategic support for the successful implementation of the HIV grant in Pakistan, as well as other health-related programs that UNDP may undertake in the future. This position requires adherence to UNDP rules, policies, and procedures, as well as collaboration with national and provincial stakeholders, Sub-recipients (SRs), and technical partners. The specialist will ensure integration across functional areas within the Program Management Unit (PMU) and support capacity building and health system strengthening activities. The role involves assessing programmatic impact, monitoring program delivery, and leading reviews with partners to address underperformance and bottlenecks. The specialist will also develop work plans and budgets, coordinate with monitoring and evaluation teams, and ensure compliance with grant agreements and national strategic plans.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Programme Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: assessing programmatic impact and monitoring program delivery; leading reviews with national and implementing partners to address underperformance; performing risk assessments and developing risk management plans; submitting work plans and budgets; overseeing implementation of work plans by Sub-recipients; ensuring effective coordination among functional units of the PMU; establishing frameworks for quality reporting; supporting the development of project proposals and work plans; updating project management modules; monitoring budgets and conducting quality analyses; supporting program audits and investigations; coordinating with other UN agencies and organizations; anticipating implementation bottlenecks; developing capacity development plans; building strategic partnerships with national actors; supporting resource mobilization efforts; facilitating knowledge sharing; and ensuring adherence to human rights and gender equality principles.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Public Health or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience at the national or international level in HIV programming and capacity strengthening systems for health is required. Experience working with public health institutions in the area of HIV is essential. Proficiency in using office software packages and web-based management systems is necessary, along with knowledge of UNDP rules and regulations. Demonstrated experience in developing and managing effective partnerships with government and civil society organizations is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree) in Public Health or a relevant field. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in the same areas, along with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of health systems and HIV programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master's degree, or 9 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should include working in the implementation of HIV programming and developing or implementing capacity strengthening systems for health. Familiarity with public health institutions and experience in the UN system or with UNDP policies and procedures are advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Urdu is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other local languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and UN entities. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and emphasizes the importance of human rights and gender equality in all actions. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process.