National Project Coordinating Associate Role in SDG in Thailand” UNDP

February 19, 2025

14 minutes read

This job is for a National Project Coordinating Associate focused on the SDG Project in Thailand. It’s within the United Nations Development (UNDP), which works to address global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change, using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework. The job is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and the successful candidate will support two major projects aimed at promoting of SDGs in Thailand.

Key Responsibilities:http://National Project Coordinating Associate Job Posting

Project Planning and Coordination:
- The role requires planning and coordinating the activities for both SDG localisation projects.
- Organize training sessions and workshops for local government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders to help them understand the SDGs, how to monitor them, and how to implement them at local levels.
- The role also involves facilitating the exchange of best practices, learning from other countries or regions to improve SDG localisation in Thailand.
Multi-Stakeholder Engagement:
- The person will work with a wide range of stakeholders, such as local communities, government bodies, international organizations, civil society groups, and the private sector.
- They will need to advocate for policy reforms that support the integration of SDGs into local governance and development plans.
- You’ll be responsible for ensuring local communities are involved and their voices are heard in decision-making processes related to SDGs.
Resource Mobilization and Partnership Development:
- The role involves building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including other UN agencies, NGOs, government institutions, and partners.
- You’ll need to explore and identify opportunities for fundraising and resource mobilization, helping to secure resources for the project.
Monitoring and Reporting:
- You will assist in monitoring the progress of the projects by tracking performance against set goals and targets.
- You’ll need to collect and analyze data, prepare reports, and ensure that the project meets its objectives.
- The role involves risk management, identifying potential issues and ensuring they are addressed.
Communication and Knowledge Sharing:
- Sharing knowledge and lessons learned from the project with stakeholders is crucial. You’ll be involved in disseminating findings from the project and facilitating the sharing of best practices across different regions.
- The job also involves training and building the capacity of the project team and external stakeholders to implement SDG-related activities effectively.

Skills and Experience Required:@vacancyspaces.com

Education and Experience:
- You need at least 3 years of project coordination experience with a Bachelor’s degree or 6 years of experience with a high school diploma.
- Experience working in sustainable development or with government entities and stakeholders is highly valued.
- Experience working with UN agencies or other international organizations is a plus.
- Knowledge of SDG localisation, policy advocacy, and capacity-building activities would be important.
Skills:
- Organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and responsibilities at once.
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal) to engage stakeholders and report effectively.
- Ability to use office software (MS Word, Excel) and knowledge of monitoring and evaluation processes.
- Problem-solving and analytical skills to assess project progress and tackle challenges.
Language Skills:
- You need to be fluent in both English and Thai to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and report on the project’s progress.

Working Environment:

The position requires travel within Thailand, especially to different provinces, for project implementation and to engage with local stakeholders.
It’s a full-time position with a 1-year contract, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs and funding.

Impact:

This position plays a key role in supporting Thailand’s progress toward the 2030 Agenda by helping to integrate SDGs into local policies and development plans.
The project focuses on inclusive development, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.

Diversity and Inclusion:

UNDP values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals belonging to marginalized groups, indigenous populations, and people with disabilities.

Position Overview:

The role of the National Project Coordinating Associate at UNDP Thailand is integral to supporting the SDG localisation initiatives that aim to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local levels in Thailand. UNDP, which is at the forefront of global development efforts, strives to address challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and socio-economic disparities through its global network of partners and expertise.

Thailand is deeply committed to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and this role will help to accelerate the integration of the SDGs into local development plans and governance structures. The position is primarily focused on two major projects: the Partnership to Accelerate SDG Localisation in Thailand and the Strengthening SDG Localisation Phase 2.0 project. Both of these projects work towards advancing SDG localisation through a whole-of-society approach, which involves engaging various stakeholders at both national and local levels.

Key Responsibilities and Functions:

1. Project Planning and Coordination:

One of the primary tasks of the National Project Coordinating Associate is to ensure the effective planning and execution of both SDG localisation projects. This includes overseeing a wide variety of activities that range from training sessions to meetings with key stakeholders.

a) Project Planning:

The Associate will coordinate and organize project activities to ensure that each initiative aligns with the overarching goals of the SDG localisation process.
They will develop detailed work plans, outlining key milestones, timelines, and resources required for the project’s success.
This planning process includes identifying potential risks and challenges that might emerge during the project lifecycle and preparing appropriate risk mitigation plans.

b) Training and Capacity Building:

An essential component of this role is organizing training programs and workshops for local government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders. These activities aim to build their knowledge of the SDGs and how to implement them at local levels.
The training will cover topics such as SDG awareness, monitoring and reporting tools, and strategies for SDG implementation.
By developing local capacities, the project helps empower local communities to take ownership of the SDG agenda and participate actively in its achievement.

c) Stakeholder Engagement:

In the context of SDG localisation, engaging with multiple stakeholders is essential. The Associate will work to develop strong relationships with government bodies, NGOs, community groups, private sector organizations, and international partners to create synergies that support the SDG agenda.
The Associate will also facilitate the exchange of best practices among stakeholders and encourage collaboration across different sectors, levels of government, and regions.

d) Advocacy and Policy Reform:

The Associate will play a significant role in advocating for policy reforms at the local and national levels. This involves lobbying government officials and working closely with ministries such as the Ministry of Interior and the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) to integrate SDGs into their development strategies and policy frameworks.
Efforts will also be made to advocate for legislative changes that enable the more effective implementation of SDGs at the provincial and local levels.

2. Multi-Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development:

A key part of SDG localisation is the engagement of a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the goals are adopted and implemented in a collaborative manner. This role requires establishing and maintaining partnerships with local, national, and international actors.

a) Building Partnerships:

The Associate will help build and sustain partnerships with a variety of stakeholders, including government institutions, UN agencies, civil society organizations, universities, and the private sector. This collaborative approach ensures that SDG localisation efforts are comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable.
The role also involves creating networks of stakeholders that can share insights, resources, and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of the projects.

b) Resource Mobilisation:

A critical responsibility is exploring opportunities for resource mobilisation. This includes seeking financial support, technical assistance, and other resources necessary for the continuation and expansion of SDG localisation projects.
The Associate will work closely with their supervisor to explore funding opportunities from international donors, development partners, and other relevant sources to ensure the sustainability of the projects.

c) Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination:

Throughout the project, the Associate will facilitate knowledge sharing by documenting and disseminating the lessons learned from project activities, ensuring they are available to stakeholders at all levels.
This knowledge sharing will include the dissemination of SDG-related data, reports, and best practices that can inform and improve future efforts.

3. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting:

The Associate will be heavily involved in ensuring that the project is on track to meet its objectives, using data-driven monitoring and evaluation techniques to measure success.

a) Monitoring Project Progress:

The Associate will support the development of a monitoring framework that tracks the performance of each project activity against specific targets and timelines.
They will also regularly review the monitoring data to ensure that any issues are identified early and addressed promptly, ensuring project objectives are met efficiently.

b) Evaluation of Outcomes:

The Associate will be responsible for the evaluation of project outcomes, ensuring that the results align with the expected impact on SDG localisation in Thailand.
Evaluation will be carried out through data collection, interviews, focus groups, and consultations with stakeholders to understand how effectively the project has been implemented at the local level.

c) Reporting and Feedback:

The Associate will regularly prepare progress reports for internal and external stakeholders, including donors, government agencies, and UN partners.
These reports will highlight project achievements, challenges, and adjustments needed to enhance project implementation.
The Associate will also ensure that the project meets audit requirements and donor expectations.

4. Communications and Advocacy:

Communication is crucial for any project’s success, particularly in projects aimed at SDG localisation, which require widespread awareness and engagement.

a) External Communication:

The Associate will be responsible for developing communication materials such as newsletters, social media updates, press releases, and project briefs to raise awareness about the SDG localisation efforts in Thailand.
These materials will highlight success stories, challenges faced, and the impact of the project on communities and stakeholders.

b) Internal Communication:

Internally, the Associate will be responsible for ensuring that project staff and stakeholders are kept up to date with developments, changes, and key milestones. This may include organising internal meetings, briefings, and training sessions.

c) Public Engagement:

A large part of the role involves raising public awareness of the SDGs through media campaigns, community meetings, and outreach programs.
The Associate will work to ensure that the SDGs are seen as relevant and actionable by local communities, highlighting the benefits they can bring to local development.

5. Risk Management and Continuous Learning:

As the project unfolds, the Associate will monitor any risks that could impede the project’s success, such as political, social, or environmental challenges. They will work with stakeholders to develop risk mitigation strategies and keep the project moving forward smoothly.
The Associate will also participate in learning and development activities, seeking out new tools, resources, and methodologies to enhance the project’s impact.

Required Skills and Experience:

Education:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field like Business Administration, Public Administration, Sustainable Development, or a related discipline is preferred. Alternatively, a High School diploma with extensive experience (6 years) will also be considered.
Experience:
- At least 3 years of experience in project coordination, preferably in the field of sustainable development or SDG localisation. Candidates with experience working with UN agencies or international development organizations will be at an advantage.
- Experience in stakeholder management and collaborating with government entities, especially the Ministry of Interior and provincial offices, is desirable.
Skills:
- Project management skills, including planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal), particularly in reporting, presentations, and stakeholder engagement.
- Experience in capacity-building and facilitating workshops or trainings.
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; familiarity with database management systems is a plus.
- Fluency in both English and Thai.
Personal Qualities:
- The Associate must demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to work independently, and be able to manage competing priorities efficiently.
- They should also have a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to Thailand’s sustainable development journey and make a direct impact on local communities through the SDG process. The role is dynamic and requires someone who is passionate about social change, environmental sustainability, and collaborative problem-solving.

Role Context and Broader Impact:

The UNDP Thailand’s National Project Coordinating Associate is a crucial player in the mission to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within Thailand. SDG localisation is the process of adapting the global SDG framework to fit the local realities and specific needs of a country or region. This is an especially vital undertaking in countries like Thailand, where diverse regions, each with its own cultural, political, and economic contexts, need tailored approaches to ensure the SDGs are achieved by 2030.

The SDGs themselves represent an ambitious global agenda to address pressing challenges, such as climate action, poverty reduction, gender equality, quality education, clean water, and decent work for all. The role of the Associate is to work at the intersection of local government structures and national efforts to ensure that the SDGs are not just abstract goals but real actions that lead to tangible improvements in people’s lives.

The Partnership to Accelerate SDG Localisation in Thailand and Strengthening SDG Localisation Phase 2.0 projects focus on integrating the SDGs into local development plans, budgeting processes, and implementation frameworks at the subnational levels (provincial, district, and municipal). This job entails managing and coordinating efforts to directly engage communities, local governments, and other stakeholders in action-oriented processes that create measurable progress toward the SDGs.

Expanded Key Responsibilities and Functions:

1. Project Planning and Coordination:

Project management in the SDG localisation context is more than just about ticking boxes or meeting deadlines; it’s about ensuring that every project aligns with the local and national development priorities while making progress on the global SDG targets.

a) Detailed Work Plans and Implementation:

The Associate must develop thorough work plans for each project phase. This involves breaking down larger project goals into smaller, actionable tasks, which will be assigned to the right team members or stakeholders.
They will facilitate project implementation by ensuring that all activities adhere to the work plan timelines. Whether it’s about community outreach programs, consultations with local governments, or workshops on SDG policy integration, the Associate must track progress daily and adjust plans as needed.

b) Monitoring and Adjustments:

While the initial plans might be well-laid, the project may encounter challenges or require mid-course corrections. The Associate is responsible for continually monitoring project implementation against agreed timelines and identifying emerging risks or bottlenecks.
The ability to adapt and pivot quickly is crucial for the role, ensuring that the project remains aligned with the changing dynamics on the ground while still achieving SDG targets.

c) Facilitating Collaborative Work:

The Associate will ensure that team members and local stakeholders remain aligned in their efforts. This could involve coordinating between different actors in provincial governments, regional offices, and other levels of government.
The role will also require a great deal of interpersonal skills and conflict management, especially when different stakeholders, each with their own priorities and perspectives, need to collaborate.

2. Stakeholder Engagement and Networking:

Effective stakeholder management is not a task you can overlook when implementing SDGs locally. It is not just about keeping everyone in the loop but ensuring they are invested in the process and committed to bringing the SDGs into practice.

a) Government Engagement:

A central task of the Associate is to work closely with local government representatives and encourage their active participation in the SDG localisation process.
They will help local governments identify relevant SDGs that align with their development priorities and offer technical assistance to integrate these into provincial development plans.

b) Building Partnerships with Civil Society:

An equally important responsibility involves building partnerships with civil society organizations (CSOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs). These groups are instrumental in facilitating community-level participation in SDG implementation.
The Associate will engage these groups to help mobilize local resources, raise awareness about SDGs, and provide platforms for local voices to be heard in decision-making processes.

c) Private Sector Involvement:

Engaging the private sector is critical to driving sustainable economic growth, innovation, and investment that supports the SDGs. The Associate will explore avenues for private-sector engagement, seeking to mobilize funds, partner on sustainable business practices, and build mutually beneficial collaborations.

d) Knowledge Sharing and Peer Learning:

The Associate’s role includes facilitating knowledge exchange platforms where stakeholders can share their experiences and best practices related to SDG localisation. This will involve setting up forums or discussion panels where local governments and NGOs can learn from each other.
Through these platforms, the Associate will ensure that the localisation strategies are adaptive, encouraging stakeholders to modify their approach based on what is working in other regions.

3. Capacity Building and Technical Support:

As part of the broader capacity-building efforts, the Associate plays a crucial role in equipping local actors with the tools and knowledge needed to implement SDGs effectively.

a) Training for Local Stakeholders:

The Associate will organize training programs designed for local officials, stakeholders, and community leaders on how to integrate SDGs into their work.
These workshops can cover topics such as local data collection, participatory development approaches, and monitoring progress toward the SDGs.

b) Building Analytical Capacities:

Beyond training, the Associate will help develop analytical tools and guidelines that can assist local governments in measuring their progress against SDG indicators.
By improving data collection and analysis techniques at the local level, the project ensures that progress on SDG goals is quantifiable, allowing for better decision-making and course correction.

c) Long-Term Capacity Building:

Beyond individual project milestones, the Associate will contribute to institutionalizing SDG localisation within local governance structures, ensuring that the work done today becomes an ongoing commitment for tomorrow. This could involve assisting in creating dedicated units or departments at local levels focused on sustainable development.

4. Advocacy and Public Outreach:

Raising awareness about SDG localisation is crucial to ensure that the goals resonate with the local population and the public sector. The Associate is responsible for creating communication strategies that amplify the reach of SDG messages.

a) Public Campaigns:

Public engagement campaigns can be a mix of traditional media and social media, aimed at raising awareness about the SDGs. The Associate will help design strategies for public outreach, which may include hosting public dialogues, community consultations, and interactive digital campaigns to increase awareness of local SDG progress.

b) Engaging Local Media:

Engaging with local media outlets to share stories of success or challenges related to SDG localisation is an important part of the role. The Associate will work with journalists to ensure they have access to relevant data and stories that inspire local communities to take action in support of the SDGs.

c) Collaborative Events:

The Associate may be tasked with organizing multi-stakeholder forums, including government officials, civil society, and the private sector, where discussions around SDG challenges and progress can take place.

Required Skills and Qualifications (Expanded):

Educational Background:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as Public Administration, Sociology, Sustainable Development, or Political Science is required. Master’s Degrees are often preferred in this role as they reflect a deeper understanding of the complexities of SDG implementation and international development.
Experience in International Development:
- A strong track record of experience (3+ years) in development work, particularly in the context of SDG implementation, policy development, and local governance.
- The Associate should be comfortable working with national and local governments, and have a deep understanding of Thailand’s policy frameworks and governance systems, especially the national development plans.
Leadership and People Management:
- While this role is not primarily focused on direct supervision, the Associate will still need to be comfortable leading teams, motivating stakeholders, and ensuring that different project activities are aligned and executed seamlessly.
- The ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize is critical, as is an understanding of how to manage differing viewpoints and interests in a collaborative environment.
Expertise in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E):
- Understanding how to design and use monitoring frameworks is important to evaluate whether the SDG localisation projects are achieving their intended outcomes.
- Experience with tools such as M&E software and survey instruments will be beneficial to measure and report on progress.

Conclusion:

This position is integral to Thailand’s ambitious journey toward meeting the SDG targets by 2030. Through effective planning, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building, the Associate will help ensure that SDGs are implemented successfully at the local level, with a focus on equity, inclusivity, and sustainability. The ability to coordinate a diverse range of stakeholders, navigate political landscapes, and address emerging challenges will be essential for ensuring the long-term success of SDG localisation efforts.