“Strategic Leadership in International Development: In-Depth Analysis of the Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID Role with UNDP Mexico”

April 10, 2025

16 minutes read

Leadership in International“Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” position with UNDP in Mexico—covering the background, responsibilities, required competencies, and what the role means within the larger development context.

1. Introduction to the Position

The “Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” position is a key role within the UNDP Mexico Office, specifically aligned with the Programa de Cooperación entre AMEXCID y PNUD (PROCAP). The role is critical for advancing South-South and Triangular Cooperation, strengthening institutional capacity, and supporting international development partnerships in alignment with Mexico’s dual role as both a provider and recipient of cooperation.

This is a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10) role based in Mexico City, lasting six months, with the possibility of renewal depending on performance and funding availability.

2. Context: AMEXCID and the PROCAP Program

2.1. About AMEXCID

The Agencia Mexicana de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AMEXCID) plays a strategic role in implementing Mexico’s international cooperation policies. AMEXCID operates under the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) and is responsible for coordinating efforts related to development aid, South-South and Triangular Cooperation, humanitarian aid, and more.

2.2. Background on PROCAP

The PROCAP partnership between AMEXCID and UNDP began in 2013 and is now in its third phase (2019-2025). This phase focuses on:

Enhancing institutional capacities
Strengthening Mexico’s cooperation frameworks
Promoting strategic partnerships
Supporting the Plan de Desarrollo Integral for Central America and southern Mexico.

2.3. Alignment with Sustainable Development

The PROCAP initiative is deeply connected to the 2030 Agenda, with an emphasis on SDG 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

3. Primary Objectives of the Role

The general goal of the position is to coordinate, supervise, and manage the implementation of PROCAP, ensuring alignment with:

The project’s logical framework
Strategic development plans of AMEXCID
UNDP’s operational and ethical standards
Results-based management approaches

4. Key Responsibilities

4.1. Project and Team Management

Coordinate the substantive and administrative activities of PROCAP.
Ensure compliance with UNDP regulations and results-oriented approaches.
Provide continuous monitoring to achieve the outputs as defined in the Project Document and agreed work plans.
Supervise the PROCAP team, ensuring high performance and adherence to UNDP’s code of conduct and ethics.

4.2. Financial and Operational Oversight

With the support of the Administrative Analyst:

Plan and manage the physical and financial resources of the project.
Identify potential execution risks and develop mitigation plans.
Develop quarterly and annual budgets and project reports in line with UNDP and AMEXCID standards.

4.3. Strategic Planning and Advisory Role

Design and implement strategic initiatives to support AMEXCID’s goals.
Lead effective communication and negotiations with AMEXCID.
Provide strategic advice to UNDP’s Governance Programme Unit and management on:
- South-South and Triangular Cooperation
- Project monitoring and evaluation
- Alignment with SDG 17 and the 2030 Agenda

4.4. Knowledge Management and Partnerships

Promote knowledge management, learning, and documentation of best practices.
Facilitate alliances with key stakeholders, including:
- Government institutions
- Civil society
- Private sector
- Academia
- Bilateral and multilateral development agencies

5. Competencies Required

The role demands a blend of technical, interpersonal, and managerial skills, as defined by the UNDP’s competency framework:

5.1. Core Competencies (Nivel 2)

Achieving Results: Prioritize outcomes, balance speed and quality.
Thinking Innovatively: Bring new ideas and integrated thinking.
Continuous Learning: Seek growth opportunities and encourage learning in others.
Adapting with Agility: Respond to new situations with flexibility.
Acting with Determination: Stay resilient under pressure.
Engaging and Partnering: Build alliances and maintain trust.
Facilitating Diversity and Inclusion: Promote inclusive conversations and decisions.

5.2. Functional Competencies

Project Management: Apply tools like logical frameworks, theory of change, and RBM.
Budgeting & Resource Planning: Manage financial resources responsibly.
Strategic Communication: Tailor communication for different audiences.
Partnership Management: Foster collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E): Design and implement evaluation strategies.
Institutional Strengthening: Support organizational growth of AMEXCID.
Knowledge of SDGs and Development Agendas: Especially SDG 17 and South-South frameworks.

6. Required Qualifications and Experience

6.1. Education

Master’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations, Project Management, or similar.
A Bachelor’s degree is accepted with additional years of relevant experience.

6.2. Experience

5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of experience in:
- Project management
- Strategic planning
- Monitoring & evaluation
- Team leadership
Demonstrated experience in public administration, international cooperation, or development planning.

6.3. Specific Skills

Personnel and HR management
Budget design and execution
Familiarity with cooperation modalities (bilateral, South-South, triangular)
Advanced Spanish and professional English required

7. Strategic Importance of the Role

This role is not only operational but strategically significant for multiple reasons:

7.1. Enhancing Mexico’s Global Role

Mexico plays a dual role as both recipient and provider of development cooperation.
The position helps shape Mexico’s image as a leader in South-South Cooperation.

7.2. Bridging National and International Agendas

Connects foreign policy with national development priorities.
Links the Plan Nacional de Desarrollo 2019-2024 with the 2030 Agenda.

7.3. Institutional Development

Drives organizational strengthening of AMEXCID.
Promotes innovation in cooperation mechanisms, like:
- Diplomacy for development
- Scientific and technological partnerships
- Private sector engagement

8. Working Environment and Ethical Standards

UNDP emphasizes a safe, inclusive, and professional work culture. The role requires strict compliance with the following:

Zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
Full commitment to ethical standards, transparency, and integrity.
Merit-based hiring with emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

9. Application Process and Recruitment Policies

9.1. Application Deadline

Apply before: April 16, 2025, 05:59 AM (Mexico local time).

9.2. Recruitment Notes

Open only to Mexican nationals or residents eligible to work in Mexico.
Candidates may be considered for similar roles across UNDP offices.
UNDP does not charge application fees at any stage.

10. Final Thoughts: Why This Role Matters

The “Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” role is an ideal opportunity for professionals looking to:

Influence national and regional development cooperation strategies
Operate at the intersection of diplomacy, development, and policy
Gain leadership experience in a UN setting
Contribute directly to Agenda 2030 and SDG 17

It’s a high-impact position demanding strategic thinking, managerial acumen, and a deep commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Would you like help drafting a strong application (CV + cover letter) for this position? Or perhaps a tailored preparation guide for the interview?

“Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” position with UNDP in Mexico, focusing on its background, responsibilities, required competencies, qualifications, and the broader implications within the international development context.

1. Introduction to the Role

The position of Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID represents a strategic leadership role within the framework of a long-standing collaboration between the Agencia Mexicana de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AMEXCID) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). As a coordination lead, the incumbent plays a pivotal role in managing and scaling up international cooperation efforts that are aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

The role goes beyond administrative or project execution duties; it involves policy advisory, partnership development, strategic planning, and institutional strengthening. This multi-dimensionality makes it both a demanding and rewarding position for professionals with a solid background in international development, public administration, and project management.

2. Background of the Programme (PROCAP)

2.1 Origins and Evolution

The Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID-PNUD (PROCAP) has been active since 2013. It was established to reinforce the institutional capacities of AMEXCID, especially as Mexico transitions into a Dual Cooperation Partner — a country that both receives and provides international development cooperation.

As Mexico is considered an upper-middle-income country, its role in international development has shifted in recent years. PROCAP reflects this transition by supporting AMEXCID in designing and implementing a more effective and strategic cooperation model, tailored to Mexico’s unique development priorities and global commitments.

2.2 Third Phase of PROCAP (2019–2025)

The third and current phase of PROCAP, running from 2019 to 2025, aligns with:

The National Development Plan 2019–2024
Mexico’s foreign policy directives
Commitments under the 2030 Agenda
The implementation of the Plan de Desarrollo Integral for southern Mexico and northern Central America

This phase of the project puts a strong emphasis on transforming international cooperation into a foreign policy instrument that also aligns with domestic development objectives.

2.3 Strategic Axes

PROCAP supports the six diplomatic dimensions of AMEXCID:

Sports diplomacy
Citizenship diplomacy
Science and technology diplomacy
Economic and business diplomacy
Educational diplomacy
Humanitarian diplomacy

These axes demonstrate a broad and inclusive approach to international cooperation that integrates various sectors of society and government.

3. Key Objectives of the Role

The Coordinador/a will act as the lead figure ensuring the successful execution and oversight of the entire PROCAP initiative. The role requires aligning project deliverables with AMEXCID’s institutional goals while upholding the standards and procedures of UNDP.

3.1 Overarching Goals

The position supports four major outcomes:

Institutional capacity development for managing international cooperation
Strengthening Mexico’s cooperation policy, both as donor and recipient
Promotion of strategic alliances across sectors
Support to the Integral Development Plan, especially within regional cooperation frameworks

4. Duties and Responsibilities

This section outlines what is expected of the Coordinador/a on a day-to-day and strategic level.

4.1 Project Management and Oversight

Overall project coordination, including both administrative and technical components
Supervision of staff, consultants, and stakeholders
Ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations, as well as national counterparts’ expectations
Designing and executing work plans in collaboration with AMEXCID and UNDP’s Effective Governance and Democracy program

4.2 Financial and Resource Management

In coordination with the project’s Administrative Analyst, the Coordinator will:
- Oversee budget planning and financial reporting
- Track expenditures against project deliverables
- Identify and mitigate risks during implementation
- Ensure transparent and efficient use of resources

4.3 Strategic Support and Innovation

Develop and implement new strategic initiatives that respond to emerging cooperation priorities
Serve as an advisor to AMEXCID in structuring new partnerships and improving project outcomes
Design and monitor results-based frameworks such as theory of change and logical frameworks

4.4 Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

Act as the primary liaison between AMEXCID, UNDP, and other key stakeholders
Lead negotiations and strategic discussions with AMEXCID
Build and nurture alliances with:
- Civil society organizations
- Academic institutions
- Private sector partners
- Multilateral and bilateral donors

4.5 Knowledge Management and M&E

Establish systems for monitoring and evaluation, ensuring lessons learned feed into project improvement
Lead efforts in knowledge generation, reporting, and dissemination
Promote South-South and Triangular Cooperation as a knowledge-sharing mechanism

4.6 Advisory Role

Provide expert guidance to the UNDP senior management and the Governance and Democracy portfolio team on:
- International Development Cooperation (IDC)
- Global development trends
- SDG 17 and partnership approaches
- Monitoring and evaluation strategies

5. Required Qualifications

5.1 Academic Background

Master’s degree in public administration, international relations, political science, project management, or similar fields — with demonstrated expertise in IDC
Bachelor’s degree candidates are also eligible but must show a longer track record (7 years)

5.2 Professional Experience

Minimum 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of progressive experience in:
- Project coordination
- Strategic planning
- Monitoring and evaluation
- Public policy
Experience working with or within international organizations or government institutions is highly desirable

5.3 Technical Skills

Strong command of project management tools such as:
- Logical framework
- Results-based management
- Theory of change
Experience in:
- Team leadership
- Resource management
- Stakeholder engagement
- Budget planning and execution

5.4 Language Requirements

Native Spanish
Advanced English, especially for drafting reports, policy documents, and international correspondence

6. Core Competencies and Behavioral Attributes

The Coordinador/a is expected to display UNDP’s Level 2 behavioral competencies, including:

Achieving Results

Delivering outputs that are timely, efficient, and impact-oriented
Simplifying complex procedures for improved implementation

Thinking Innovatively

Using a systems-thinking approach to problem-solving
Proposing and testing new models of cooperation

Continuous Learning

Staying abreast of global IDC trends and applying lessons learned
Engaging in peer learning and encouraging capacity-building in the team

Adaptability

Responding to changes in context (political, institutional, or technical) with agility
Adjusting project strategies and timelines based on emerging needs

Collaboration and Inclusion

Facilitating dialogues between diverse actors, managing sensitive political contexts
Promoting gender equality and inclusive development practices

7. Thematic Knowledge Areas

The role requires a deep understanding of the following thematic areas:

South-South and Triangular Cooperation
Foreign policy and development linkages
Public administration reform
SDG integration, especially Goal 17
Inclusive partnership models
Multi-stakeholder engagement frameworks

8. Strategic Importance of the Role

The Coordinador/a is central to Mexico’s evolving role in the global development ecosystem. Mexico is uniquely positioned to:

Be a recipient of aid (e.g., through regional development cooperation)
Act as a provider of technical expertise and best practices
Serve as a bridge between Latin America and other regions through triangular cooperation

The work carried out by the Coordinator directly contributes to:

Strengthening Mexico’s soft power
Regional stability and development
Cross-border cooperation, especially with Central America
Institutional transformation, particularly of AMEXCID

9. Career Opportunities and Growth

This position offers significant exposure to:

Policy-making at national and international levels
High-level negotiation
Strategic leadership within UNDP
Inter-agency collaboration

It serves as an excellent platform for future roles such as:

UNDP Country Programme Manager
Chief Technical Advisor
International Development Consultant
Advisor in Foreign Affairs Ministries or International Agencies

10. Organizational Culture and Ethics

As part of UNDP, the Coordinator is expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics, including:

Zero tolerance for sexual harassment or abuse
Commitment to diversity and inclusion
Merit-based recruitment and transparency

11. Conclusion

The Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID is not just a project manager—it’s a strategic leader, policy advisor, and bridge-builder in the field of international cooperation. This role is ideally suited for professionals passionate about leveraging diplomacy, public policy, and innovative partnerships to tackle global and regional development challenges.

With the increasing complexity of international development and Mexico’s dual role in this landscape, the Coordinator’s contributions will have a lasting institutional, regional, and global impact.

If you’d like, I can help you tailor a cover letter, resume, or interview preparation tips specific to this position. Just let me know!

Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID-PNUD – UNDP

undp.org

The link you’ve provided directs to the job posting for the position of “Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Mexico. This role is pivotal in managing the cooperation program between the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID) and UNDP, aiming to strengthen Mexico’s international development initiatives.

Key Details of the Position:

Job Title: Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID
Location: Mexico City, MexicoUNjobs+1UNDP Jobs+1
Application Deadline: April 16, 2025, 5:59 AM
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
Education Requirements: Master’s Degree with 5 years of experience or Bachelor’s Degree with 7 years of experience
Languages Required: Spanish and English

Background of the Program:

Established in 2013, the cooperation program between AMEXCID and UNDP (PROCAP) contributes to strengthening Mexico’s International Cooperation for Development (CID). Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 17, which focuses on revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development, PROCAP supports AMEXCID’s efforts to transition towards an effective model that reflects Mexico’s dual role as both a provider and recipient of cooperation. This initiative aligns with Mexico’s priorities and vision within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Objectives of PROCAP:

Institutional Capacity Development: Enhancing AMEXCID’s capabilities in managing international development cooperation.
Policy Strengthening: Bolstering Mexico’s CID policies in both receiving and offering capacities.UN Jobs & NGO Opportunities+5UN Jobs & NGO Opportunities+5UNjoblink+5
Strategic Partnerships Promotion: Establishing alliances with key stakeholders, including the private sector, academia, civil society organizations, and other bilateral and multilateral cooperation agencies.
Support for the Integral Development Plan: Assisting in the implementation of development plans for the northern Central America region and southeastern Mexico.

Key Responsibilities of the Coordinator:

Program Management: Oversee both substantive and administrative activities of the project, ensuring compliance with UNDP regulations and a results-oriented approach.
Team Supervision: Lead and supervise the PROCAP team to achieve the project’s objectives as outlined in the logical framework and work plans.
Resource Planning and Execution: Ensure efficient, timely, and transparent use of physical and financial resources, identifying and mitigating risks in project execution.
Strategic Initiative Design and Implementation: Develop and monitor strategic initiatives supporting AMEXCID and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in line with project objectives.
Stakeholder Communication: Maintain effective communication and strategic negotiations with AMEXCID counterparts, ensuring timely fulfillment of requests.
Knowledge Management and Evaluation: Implement knowledge management, monitoring, and evaluation strategies to strengthen AMEXCID institutionally.
Advisory Role: Provide expert advice to UNDP management and the Effective Governance and Democracy Program on topics related to CID, South-South and triangular cooperation, the 2030 Agenda (with emphasis on SDG 17), and project evaluation and monitoring strategies.

Competencies Required:

Results Orientation: Ability to scale solutions and simplify processes while balancing speed and accuracy.
Innovative Thinking: Openness to new ideas and systemic thinking.
Continuous Learning: Willingness to step out of comfort zones and learn from others.
Agility: Adaptability to new situations and involving others in change processes.
Determination: Capability to persevere under multiple pressures.
Engagement and Partnership: Skill in facilitating and integrating, bringing people together, and building partnerships.
Diversity and Inclusion: Ability to facilitate conversations bridging differences and inclusive decision-making.

Technical Skills:

Communication: Clear and concise verbal and written communication, tailored to the audience.
Results-Based Management: Managing programs and projects with a focus on performance improvement and demonstrable results.
Project Management: Planning, organizing, prioritizing, and controlling resources, procedures, and protocols to achieve specific goals.
Partnership Management: Creating and maintaining alliances with a broad network of stakeholders, including governments, civil society partners, and the private sector.
Administrative Operations: Knowledge of procedural norms and practices in project administration, finance, procurement, and human resources.
SDG Integration: Knowledge exchange on South-South and triangular cooperation.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in fields such as public administration, political science, project management, or related areas, with demonstrated knowledge in international relations and International Cooperation for Development.
Experience: Minimum of 7 years (with a Bachelor’s degree) or 5 years (with a Master’s degree) of proven experience in project management, administration, strategic planning, coordination, and/or monitoring and evaluation of projects.
Required Skills:
- Experience in personnel and human resources management.
- Proven competencies in project administration, management, and execution.
- Experience in budget establishment and management.
- Practical understanding of logical frameworks, theory of change, or similar methodologies in project management.
- Leadership skills that are positive and open.
- Strong organizational capabilities.
- Native Spanish proficiency and advanced English skills.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

UNDP is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures in which it operates. Qualified applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Sources

The link you’ve provided directs to the job posting for the position of “Coordinador/a del Programa de Cooperación AMEXCID” with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Mexico. This role is crucial in managing the cooperation program between the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID) and UNDP, aiming to strengthen Mexico’s international development initiatives.