Comprehensive Guide to the Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) Role at UNDP Serbia

March 7, 2025

13 minutes read

This job posting is for a Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) position with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belgrade, Serbia. It is a full-time, six-month contract under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA), meaning it is open to Serbian nationals or individuals with the right to work in Serbia.

Overview of the Rolehttp://Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) role at UNDP in Serbia: View Document

The Business Management Analyst will play a key role in supporting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia in managing Official Development Assistance (ODA). ODA refers to financial aid provided by the Serbian government to support development projects domestically and internationally.

This position is part of the SDG Acceleration Framework Project, which helps integrate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national policies and align Serbia’s development strategies with EU standards.

The person in this role will provide business and operations management support to ensure that ODA programs are well-planned, properly funded, and effectively monitored.

Key Responsibilities

The Business Management Analyst will have five major areas of responsibility:

1. Business and Operations Management for ODA

Develop annual and multi-year plans for Official Development Assistance (ODA) programs.
Ensure budget forecasts align with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ strategic goals.
Monitor program execution and suggest improvements.

2. Monitoring and Reportingwordpress-6.7.1

Implement tracking systems for ODA projects.
Prepare progress reports for stakeholders.
Conduct economic analysis to assess the performance of aid programs.

3. Grant and Fund Management

Support allocation and disbursement of ODA funds.
Ensure compliance with donor regulations and government policies.
Oversee financial reporting on grant usage.

4. Capacity Building and Support

Provide training and support to government staff on financial and project management.
Help develop policies and procedures to improve ODA management.

5. Strategic Advice and Coordination

Conduct risk analysis and propose mitigation strategies.
Provide business and operational advice to government officials.
Ensure smooth communication between government institutions, donors, and international organizations.

Required Qualifications

To qualify for this role, you need:

Education:
- A Master’s degree in Economy, Finance, Management, Business Administration, or a similar field.
- OR a Bachelor’s degree in the same fields plus two extra years of work experience.
Work Experience:
- At least 2 years of experience (with a Master’s degree) or 4 years of experience (with a Bachelor’s degree).
- Experience in business analysis, operations, financial management, and working with government/private sector stakeholders.
Technical Skills:
- Experience in legal and business reviews.
- Knowledge of MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Ability to manage grants, financial reports, and development funds.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in public policies, legislative analysis, and crisis management.
- Familiarity with international development and UN programs.
Languages:
- Fluency in Serbian and English is required.

Competencies & Personal Skills

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

Problem-Solving & Innovation – Ability to analyze challenges and propose practical solutions.
Strategic Thinking – Aligning plans with Serbia’s foreign policy and SDGs.
Project Management – Organizing resources effectively for ODA projects.
Relationship Building – Collaborating with government officials, international partners, and donors.
Adaptability & Agility – Working in a fast-changing environment and handling multiple priorities.

Why This Job is Important

This role contributes to Serbia’s global development efforts and helps the government manage aid programs more effectively. It also strengthens Serbia’s international partnerships, especially in aligning development programs with EU integration efforts.

The work done by the Business Management Analyst ensures that Serbia’s aid funds are used efficiently, transparently, and strategically to achieve sustainable development.

Application Process & Key Deadlines

Application Deadline: March 13, 2025 (11:52 AM)
Location: Belgrade, Serbia
Contract Duration: 6 months (with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding)
Employment Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)

Important Note:
To apply, you must fill out the online application form completely. Only uploading a CV is not enough—you must enter your work experience, education, language skills, and nationality in the system.

Final Thoughts

This job is a great opportunity if you have experience in business analysis, financial management, and working with public institutions. It is also a highly strategic role where you can contribute to Serbia’s international development efforts while collaborating with government officials and international partners.

Would you like help with writing a cover letter, preparing for the interview, or structuring your resume for this position? Let me know how I can assist you! 😊

Detailed Overview of the Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) Role at UNDP, Serbia

This position is a high-impact, strategic role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Serbia, specifically supporting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Serbia. It plays a crucial part in the implementation and management of Official Development Assistance (ODA), ensuring that Serbia’s foreign aid policies and funding are effectively utilized.

ODA is the financial aid that Serbia provides to other countries or development initiatives to support global cooperation, economic development, and humanitarian efforts. This role is part of the SDG Acceleration Framework Project, which focuses on helping Serbia align its development strategies with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and EU integration processes.

Why This Role Matters

This role is critical because it ensures that Serbia’s development assistance programs are:
✔ Well-planned – Ensuring projects and funding align with Serbia’s foreign policy and SDG objectives.
✔ Efficiently executed – Overseeing budgets, tracking spending, and optimizing resources.
✔ Impact-driven – Conducting economic and policy analysis to ensure ODA funds deliver measurable outcomes.
✔ Compliant with international regulations – Managing grants and financial reports while following donor guidelines.

The Business Management Analyst will work as a bridge between the Serbian government, UNDP, international donors, and development agencies to ensure smooth operations and accountability in managing development aid.

Detailed Responsibilities of the Business Management Analyst

The role is multi-faceted, covering business planning, financial analysis, grant management, capacity building, and strategic advisory. Below are the core responsibilities:

1. Business and Operations Management for ODA

Develop annual and multi-year business plans for Serbia’s ODA programs.
Work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to plan budget forecasts and funding allocation.
Ensure alignment of ODA projects with Serbia’s strategic objectives, the EU accession process, and SDGs.
Monitor the execution of business plans and suggest adjustments as necessary for improved efficiency.

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

Create and implement tracking systems to monitor Serbia’s ODA projects and funding.
Prepare regular reports for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UNDP, and international donors.
Conduct economic and policy analysis to measure the impact of ODA programs.
Ensure transparency and compliance with financial and operational guidelines.

3. Grant and Fund Management

Oversee the distribution and utilization of ODA funds.
Ensure compliance with donor agreements and international development financing standards.
Track and reconcile financial data for all grant-funded programs.
Work with government officials to ensure proper financial reporting and auditing of ODA funds.

4. Capacity Building and Institutional Support

Provide training and advisory support to government staff in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Develop guidelines, templates, and tools to improve financial management processes.
Assist in formulating ODA-related policies and procedures to enhance governance and accountability.

5. Strategic Business and Operations Analysis & Advisory

Provide high-level strategic advice on business operations related to ODA.
Analyze risks and recommend mitigation strategies to improve development assistance programs.
Support Serbia in developing funding proposals to attract international partnerships and donor support.

6. Coordination, Networking, and Communication

Work with multiple stakeholders including government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and private sector representatives.
Ensure smooth inter-institutional collaboration between UNDP, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other Serbian governmental bodies.
Assist the Ministry in negotiations and discussions with international donors, the European Union, and other development organizations.
Document best practices and lessons learned from Serbia’s ODA initiatives.

Skills & Competencies Required for Success

The Business Management Analyst role requires a combination of technical expertise, financial management skills, policy knowledge, and strategic thinking. Below are the key skills required:

Core Competencies:

✅ Analytical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Ability to evaluate data, conduct impact assessments, and propose innovative solutions.
✅ Strategic Planning & Business Operations – Strong understanding of financial planning, budgeting, and operations management.
✅ Grant & Fund Management – Knowledge of managing international development funds and donor compliance.
✅ Stakeholder Coordination & Relationship Management – Ability to work with multiple national and international partners.
✅ Project Monitoring & Evaluation – Experience in tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and producing impact reports.
✅ Legal & Policy Analysis – Understanding of national laws, international development frameworks, and compliance requirements.

Technical & Digital Skills Required:

💻 Proficiency in MS Office – Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills for financial tracking and reporting.
📊 Data Analysis & Visualization – Ability to use tools for analyzing financial and project data.
📑 Policy & Legislative Research – Ability to understand and interpret development laws, policies, and agreements.
🌍 Knowledge of UNDP Systems & Global Development Trends – Familiarity with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), EU integration policies, and international aid frameworks.

Who Should Apply?

This job is ideal for professionals with experience in business management, finance, operations, or public policy who are looking for an impactful career in international development.

Eligibility Criteria:
🔹 Education:

Master’s degree in Economy, Finance, Business Administration, Management, or related fields.
OR a Bachelor’s degree + 2 extra years of work experience.

🔹 Work Experience:

Minimum 2 years (with Master’s degree) OR 4 years (with Bachelor’s degree) of experience in:
- Business analysis, operations management, financial planning, grant management, or public policy.
- Working with government institutions, international donors, or private sector partners.

🔹 Languages:

Fluency in Serbian and English is required.

🔹 Preferred (but not mandatory) additional experience:
✔ Experience working on public policies, legislative analysis, or crisis management.
✔ Background in EU integration processes and international development projects.
✔ Knowledge of UNDP systems or other international development agencies.

Salary & Benefits

While the exact salary is not specified in the job post, UNDP’s NPSA-9 level positions typically offer competitive salaries based on local market rates. Additional benefits may include:

Professional development and training opportunities.
The chance to work in a prestigious international organization.
Networking with government and international development experts.
Potential contract extensions based on performance and funding availability.

Application Process & Key Deadlines

📝 Application Deadline: March 13, 2025 (11:52 AM)
📍 Location: Belgrade, Serbia
📑 Contract Duration: 6 months (potential extension depending on funding & performance)
📌 Employment Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)

✅ Important Application Note:

You must fully complete the online application form – attaching only a CV is not enough.
Fill in all sections, including Experience, Education, Languages, and Nationality & Residence.
UNDP may request additional materials such as reports, presentations, or policy documents to assess your qualifications.

Final Thoughts: Is This Job Right for You?

This job is a fantastic opportunity if you are:
✔ Passionate about international development, governance, and foreign aid management.
✔ Skilled in financial analysis, policy research, and stakeholder coordination.
✔ Looking for a career within the UN system, government institutions, or international organizations.

Would you like assistance with writing a cover letter, tailoring your resume, or preparing for an interview? Let me know—I’d be happy to help! 😊

That’s a very detailed request! I can create a comprehensive document that thoroughly expands on the Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) role at UNDP Serbia, covering every aspect, including:

✔ In-depth job responsibilities
✔ Detailed qualifications and skills required
✔ Context on Serbia’s ODA policies & international cooperation
✔ Challenges and opportunities in the role
✔ Career growth potential and impact on Serbia’s foreign policy
✔ Application process tips and interview preparation

Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) – UNDP Serbia: A Comprehensive Overview

The Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) position at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belgrade, Serbia, is a full-time role under the National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA) contract. This role is designed to support operational management and policy coordination under the SDG Acceleration Framework Project.

In this guide, we’ll explore the job’s purpose, responsibilities, required qualifications, and potential career growth opportunities.

1. Understanding the Role

This position is a key part of the SDG Acceleration Framework Project, which is a collaboration between UNDP and the Serbian Government. The project focuses on:

Supporting the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national policies
Managing Serbia’s Official Development Assistance (ODA)
Improving business operations, financial management, and strategic planning

The Business Management Analyst plays a crucial role in coordinating policies, overseeing budgets, monitoring fund allocations, and supporting government institutions in achieving development goals.

2. Key Responsibilities

The Business Management Analyst will primarily work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other national institutions to ensure the efficient management of development aid and SDG projects.

A. Business Planning & Budgeting

✔️ Develop annual and multi-year business plans for ODA projects
✔️ Align budgets with government policies and UNDP strategic goals
✔️ Coordinate with government partners to set funding priorities
✔️ Track financial execution and suggest necessary adjustments

B. Monitoring & Reporting

✔️ Establish monitoring systems to track progress of ODA projects
✔️ Prepare regular reports for stakeholders (government, donors, UNDP)
✔️ Conduct economic analysis to evaluate the impact of projects
✔️ Ensure accountability and transparency in fund management

C. Grant & Fund Management

✔️ Support the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in allocating development funds
✔️ Monitor grants and financial transactions for compliance
✔️ Ensure reporting standards meet donor expectations
✔️ Reconcile financial data related to ODA funding

D. Capacity Building & Support

✔️ Train government officials on financial management and grant oversight
✔️ Develop guidelines and tools for improving ODA management
✔️ Assist in policy development related to international aid and SDGs

E. Strategic Analysis & Business Operations Advice

✔️ Conduct business and economic analysis for better policy decisions
✔️ Identify financial risks and propose mitigation strategies
✔️ Assist in developing funding proposals for new projects
✔️ Support senior government officials in making informed financial decisions

F. Coordination & Collaboration

✔️ Work with government agencies, donors, and stakeholders to align development goals
✔️ Represent UNDP and advise the Ministry on ODA-related discussions
✔️ Facilitate inter-agency cooperation for better project implementation

G. Knowledge Management & Advocacy

✔️ Document best practices and lessons learned in ODA management
✔️ Support the collection and analysis of relevant data for policy decisions
✔️ Promote cross-institutional knowledge sharing

3. Required Qualifications

To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific education and experience requirements.

A. Educational Qualifications

✅ Master’s Degree in Economy, Finance, Management, Business Administration (or similar fields) OR
✅ Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields + two additional years of relevant experience

B. Work Experience

✔️ Minimum 2 years of experience (with a Master’s degree) OR
✔️ Minimum 4 years of experience (with a Bachelor’s degree)

Candidates should have a strong background in business management, policy analysis, and financial oversight.

C. Essential Skills

✅ Experience in business analysis, financial planning, and policy coordination
✅ Ability to work with multiple stakeholders (government, donors, private sector)
✅ Strong budgeting and financial tracking skills
✅ Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel & PowerPoint)

D. Preferred Skills (Added Advantage)

✅ Experience in legislative and market analysis
✅ Ability to manage crisis situations and emergency responses
✅ Familiarity with public administration and state-owned enterprises

E. Language Requirements

✔️ Fluency in Serbian and English (written & spoken)

4. Competencies & Soft Skills

Besides technical expertise, candidates should demonstrate:

💡 Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop policies that align with UNDP’s mission
📊 Data Analysis: Skill in extracting insights from financial and economic data
🔄 Change Management: Ability to support institutional reforms and new policies
🤝 Relationship Management: Ability to engage with stakeholders and partners
🧠 Systems Thinking: Understanding of how policies interact within the larger economic framework
🚀 Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to adapt to challenges and propose solutions

5. Work Environment & Career Growth

The Business Management Analyst will work under the SDG Integration Center, reporting to the Programme Specialist at UNDP.

A. Career Growth Opportunities

🎯 Gain experience working with international organizations
🎯 Work on high-level government projects related to sustainable development
🎯 Build a strong professional network with policymakers and donors
🎯 Develop expertise in financial management, policy implementation, and operations strategy

This role is an excellent stepping stone for professionals looking to build a career in international development, finance, and governance.

6. Application Process & Tips

📝 Application Deadline: March 13, 2025
🖥 Online Application: Candidates must fully complete their online application form. Only uploading a CV is not enough.

A. Application Tips

✔️ Provide detailed work experience (including responsibilities and achievements)
✔️ Highlight relevant skills (finance, business management, policy analysis)
✔️ Include specific examples of how you’ve contributed to similar projects
✔️ Emphasize knowledge of UNDP’s work, SDGs, and international development

7. Final Thoughts: Is This Job Right for You?

The Business Management Analyst (NPSA-9) role at UNDP Serbia is an excellent opportunity for professionals with finance, policy analysis, and project management expertise.

✅ If you enjoy working with government institutions, managing development aid, and making a strategic impact on economic policies, this job is a perfect fit.

However, ❌ if you prefer private sector roles or less structured environments, this might not be the best role for you.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the salary for this position?

💰 UNDP salaries for NPSA positions are based on the local salary scale. While exact figures aren’t disclosed, NPSA-9 roles typically offer competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.

Q2: Is this a permanent job?

📆 No, it is a 6-month contract (with possible extension based on performance and project needs).

Q3: Can non-Serbian nationals apply?

🌍 No. This is a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA) role, meaning only Serbian nationals can apply.

Q4: What kind of reports will I be preparing?

📑 You will be responsible for financial reports, progress updates, policy briefs, and donor compliance reports.

9. How to Apply?

🔗 Apply directly through the UNDP online portal by March 13, 2025.

👉 Ensure your application is fully completed with all required details.

This comprehensive guide should give you a clear understanding of the role, expectations, and how to apply successfully. Let me know if you have any specific questions!

March 7, 2025

13 minutes read