Uncategorized

Programme Specialist

Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
Contract Duration: 1 Year with Possibility of Extension
Grade: NPSA-10
Application Deadline: February 5, 2025
Languages Required: English and Urdu
Job Schedule: Full-time
Education Required: Master’s Degree with 5 years of experience OR Bachelor’s Degree with 7 years of experience


Background of the UNDP & the Programmehttps://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/23616

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global development organizations, working to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilient societies. UNDP Pakistan collaborates with the government, private sector, civil society organizations, and communities to address development challenges, particularly in the areas of governance, climate change, economic growth, and crisis response.

UNDP’s Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) was launched as a response to the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, which affected 33 million people, displaced nearly 9 million individuals, and destroyed agricultural land, homes, and infrastructure. The FRP aims to support Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts by focusing on the following key areas:

  1. Restoring housing and essential community services – Repairing and rebuilding homes, schools, healthcare centers, and other public infrastructure.
  2. Rebuilding livelihoods and income-generating activities – Providing financial support, vocational training, and economic recovery programs to help communities rebuild their lives.
  3. Enhancing governance and service delivery – Strengthening institutions, improving policy frameworks, and ensuring efficient delivery of recovery programs.
  4. Environmental cleanup and disaster risk management – Addressing environmental damage, enhancing climate resilience, and improving disaster preparedness measures.

As the FRP expands, UNDP is seeking a Programme Specialist to provide strategic support to the Programme Manager and oversee the effective implementation of various projects under the FRP. This role involves program coordination, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), stakeholder engagement, resource management, and communication.


Key Responsibilities of the Programme Specialist

The Programme Specialist will play a critical role in ensuring the success of the Flood Recovery Programme by supporting its design, implementation, and evaluation. The position requires strong leadership, project management expertise, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.

1. Programme Management, Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E), and Oversight

  • Support the Programme Manager (PM) in ensuring the smooth execution of all project activities.
  • Lead programme implementation efforts, ensuring that projects remain on track and meet deadlines.
  • Develop and operationalize a robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework to track progress using quantitative and qualitative indicators.
  • Conduct regular assessments and performance reviews to measure the impact of programme activities and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Identify risks and challenges in programme execution and develop mitigation strategies. Maintain a risk register to proactively manage operational, reputational, and strategic risks.
  • Coordinate closely with finance and operations teams to manage budgets, control expenditures, and ensure resources are allocated efficiently.
  • Provide direct management and leadership to team members under supervision, setting clear goals, fostering accountability, and supporting professional growth.

2. Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilization

  • Assist in maintaining relationships with donors, government bodies, international organizations, and private sector partners to secure funding and expand programme reach.
  • Work alongside the National Programme Coordinator (NPC) to ensure that programme interventions are aligned with government policies and strategic objectives.
  • Develop and oversee donor reporting mechanisms, ensuring timely and accurate submission of progress reports, financial updates, and impact assessments.
  • Support fundraising and resource mobilization efforts by preparing concept notes, funding proposals, and strategic partnership frameworks.

3. Learning, Communications, and Visibility

  • Drive knowledge-sharing initiatives by documenting lessons learned, best practices, and case studies.
  • Oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy to highlight programme achievements and ensure visibility in national and international forums.
  • Collaborate with the communications team to create reports, policy briefs, newsletters, and social media content to engage donors, policymakers, and the public.
  • Organize and lead capacity-building efforts for programme staff, focusing on M&E techniques, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Promote advocacy efforts to raise awareness about flood recovery initiatives and mobilize support from diverse stakeholders.

4. Cross-Cutting Responsibilities

  • Foster a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that programme activities address the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations.
  • Maintain a zero-tolerance approach toward sexual exploitation, harassment, and discrimination, adhering to UNDP’s ethical and professional standards.
  • Keep updated with international best practices in climate resilience, disaster response, and sustainable development, integrating them into programme strategies.
  • Ensure compliance with UNDP procurement policies, financial regulations, and operational guidelines.

Required Skills and Competencies@vacancyspaces.com

The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills to drive the successful implementation of the Flood Recovery Programme.

Core Competencies

  • Results-Oriented: Ability to set and achieve challenging goals, ensuring that programme objectives translate into tangible results.
  • Innovative Thinking: Proactively identify risks, develop new ideas, and adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and manage competing priorities.
  • Strategic Planning: Strong ability to develop long-term plans, analyze trends, and propose effective solutions.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in building and managing relationships with government agencies, donors, and international partners.
  • Communication & Negotiation: Ability to articulate ideas clearly, produce high-quality reports, and advocate for programme priorities.
  • Team Leadership: Experience in managing teams, fostering collaboration, and supporting staff development.

Technical Skills

  • Project Management: Proficiency in planning, budgeting, financial management, and impact evaluation.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E): Experience in designing M&E frameworks, conducting impact assessments, and using data for decision-making.
  • Risk Management: Ability to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with programme implementation.
  • Knowledge Management: Ability to facilitate discussions, develop training materials, and promote knowledge-sharing activities.

Eligibility Criteria & Experience Requirements

Educational Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in Development Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Social Sciences, or Management.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field with two additional years of professional experience will also be considered.

Professional Experience

  • 5 years (Master’s degree) or 7 years (Bachelor’s degree) of experience in programme management, monitoring & evaluation, donor coordination, and risk management.
  • Experience working in humanitarian response, disaster recovery, climate resilience, or governance projects.
  • Strong familiarity with UNDP policies, SDGs, and international development frameworks is an advantage.
  • Experience in working with government agencies, NGOs, and international donors.

Application & Recruitment Process

  • Application Deadline: February 5, 2025
  • Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, technical assessments, and reference checks.
  • Equal Opportunity Employer: UNDP promotes diversity, gender equality, and inclusion. Women and candidates from marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Conclusion

The Programme Specialist role at UNDP is an exciting opportunity for professionals with a passion for disaster recovery, governance, and sustainable development. This position offers a chance to contribute directly to Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts, working with diverse stakeholders to build a more resilient and sustainable future.


UNDP Programme Specialist (NPSA-10) – Islamabad, Pakistan

Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
Contract Duration: 1 Year with Possibility of Extension
Grade: NPSA-10
Application Deadline: February 5, 2025
Languages Required: English and Urdu
Job Schedule: Full-time
Education Required: Master’s Degree with 5 years of experience OR Bachelor’s Degree with 7 years of experience


Background of the UNDP & the Programme

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global development organizations, working to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilient societies. UNDP Pakistan collaborates with the government, private sector, civil society organizations, and communities to address development challenges, particularly in the areas of governance, climate change, economic growth, and crisis response.

UNDP’s Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) was launched as a response to the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, which affected 33 million people, displaced nearly 9 million individuals, and destroyed agricultural land, homes, and infrastructure. The FRP aims to support Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts by focusing on the following key areas:

  1. Restoring housing and essential community services – Repairing and rebuilding homes, schools, healthcare centers, and other public infrastructure.
  2. Rebuilding livelihoods and income-generating activities – Providing financial support, vocational training, and economic recovery programs to help communities rebuild their lives.
  3. Enhancing governance and service delivery – Strengthening institutions, improving policy frameworks, and ensuring efficient delivery of recovery programs.
  4. Environmental cleanup and disaster risk management – Addressing environmental damage, enhancing climate resilience, and improving disaster preparedness measures.

As the FRP expands, UNDP is seeking a Programme Specialist to provide strategic support to the Programme Manager and oversee the effective implementation of various projects under the FRP. This role involves program coordination, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), stakeholder engagement, resource management, and communication.


Key Responsibilities of the Programme Specialist

The Programme Specialist will play a critical role in ensuring the success of the Flood Recovery Programme by supporting its design, implementation, and evaluation. The position requires strong leadership, project management expertise, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.

1. Programme Management, Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E), and Oversight

  • Support the Programme Manager (PM) in ensuring the smooth execution of all project activities.
  • Lead programme implementation efforts, ensuring that projects remain on track and meet deadlines.
  • Develop and operationalize a robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework to track progress using quantitative and qualitative indicators.
  • Conduct regular assessments and performance reviews to measure the impact of programme activities and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Identify risks and challenges in programme execution and develop mitigation strategies. Maintain a risk register to proactively manage operational, reputational, and strategic risks.
  • Coordinate closely with finance and operations teams to manage budgets, control expenditures, and ensure resources are allocated efficiently.
  • Provide direct management and leadership to team members under supervision, setting clear goals, fostering accountability, and supporting professional growth.

2. Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilization

  • Assist in maintaining relationships with donors, government bodies, international organizations, and private sector partners to secure funding and expand programme reach.
  • Work alongside the National Programme Coordinator (NPC) to ensure that programme interventions are aligned with government policies and strategic objectives.
  • Develop and oversee donor reporting mechanisms, ensuring timely and accurate submission of progress reports, financial updates, and impact assessments.
  • Support fundraising and resource mobilization efforts by preparing concept notes, funding proposals, and strategic partnership frameworks.

3. Learning, Communications, and Visibility

  • Drive knowledge-sharing initiatives by documenting lessons learned, best practices, and case studies.
  • Oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy to highlight programme achievements and ensure visibility in national and international forums.
  • Collaborate with the communications team to create reports, policy briefs, newsletters, and social media content to engage donors, policymakers, and the public.
  • Organize and lead capacity-building efforts for programme staff, focusing on M&E techniques, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Promote advocacy efforts to raise awareness about flood recovery initiatives and mobilize support from diverse stakeholders.

4. Cross-Cutting Responsibilities

  • Foster a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that programme activities address the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations.
  • Maintain a zero-tolerance approach toward sexual exploitation, harassment, and discrimination, adhering to UNDP’s ethical and professional standards.
  • Keep updated with international best practices in climate resilience, disaster response, and sustainable development, integrating them into programme strategies.
  • Ensure compliance with UNDP procurement policies, financial regulations, and operational guidelines.

Required Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills to drive the successful implementation of the Flood Recovery Programme.

Core Competencies

  • Results-Oriented: Ability to set and achieve challenging goals, ensuring that programme objectives translate into tangible results.
  • Innovative Thinking: Proactively identify risks, develop new ideas, and adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and manage competing priorities.
  • Strategic Planning: Strong ability to develop long-term plans, analyze trends, and propose effective solutions.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in building and managing relationships with government agencies, donors, and international partners.
  • Communication & Negotiation: Ability to articulate ideas clearly, produce high-quality reports, and advocate for programme priorities.
  • Team Leadership: Experience in managing teams, fostering collaboration, and supporting staff development.

Technical Skills

  • Project Management: Proficiency in planning, budgeting, financial management, and impact evaluation.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E): Experience in designing M&E frameworks, conducting impact assessments, and using data for decision-making.
  • Risk Management: Ability to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with programme implementation.
  • Knowledge Management: Ability to facilitate discussions, develop training materials, and promote knowledge-sharing activities.

Eligibility Criteria & Experience Requirements

Educational Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in Development Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Social Sciences, or Management.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field with two additional years of professional experience will also be considered.

Professional Experience

  • 5 years (Master’s degree) or 7 years (Bachelor’s degree) of experience in programme management, monitoring & evaluation, donor coordination, and risk management.
  • Experience working in humanitarian response, disaster recovery, climate resilience, or governance projects.
  • Strong familiarity with UNDP policies, SDGs, and international development frameworks is an advantage.
  • Experience in working with government agencies, NGOs, and international donors.

Application & Recruitment Process

  • Application Deadline: February 5, 2025
  • Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, technical assessments, and reference checks.
  • Equal Opportunity Employer: UNDP promotes diversity, gender equality, and inclusion. Women and candidates from marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Conclusion

The Programme Specialist role at UNDP is an exciting opportunity for professionals with a passion for disaster recovery, governance, and sustainable development. This position offers a chance to contribute directly to Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts, working with diverse stakeholders to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Would you like assistance in tailoring your resume or drafting a compelling cover letter for this role? Let me know how I can support your application! 🚀


UNDP Programme Specialist (NPSA-10) – Islamabad, Pakistan

Position Overview

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a highly qualified Programme Specialist to support the implementation of the Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) in Pakistan. This role is critical in ensuring that UNDP’s interventions in disaster recovery, climate resilience, governance, and sustainable development are effectively executed. The Programme Specialist will be responsible for programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation, donor coordination, stakeholder engagement, financial management, and policy support.

Background of the UNDP & Flood Recovery Programme (FRP)

The UNDP is the United Nations’ primary agency focused on sustainable development, poverty reduction, disaster resilience, and governance reforms. With operations in over 170 countries, UNDP helps nations achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing strategic policy advice, technical assistance, and financial support.

Following the catastrophic floods of 2022 in Pakistan, UNDP launched the Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) to address immediate humanitarian needs and long-term resilience-building efforts. The floods affected 33 million people, displaced 9 million individuals, and caused severe damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. The FRP was developed to provide technical, financial, and institutional support to the Government of Pakistan in order to:

  • Rebuild homes, schools, and healthcare centers destroyed by the floods.
  • Restore livelihoods through economic assistance, vocational training, and employment generation programs.
  • Improve governance structures for disaster preparedness, resilience building, and service delivery.
  • Ensure environmental restoration and climate adaptation to mitigate future disasters.

The Programme Specialist will play a key role in ensuring the effective execution, coordination, and expansion of this programme.


Duties and Responsibilities

1. Programme Implementation & Oversight

  • Support the Programme Manager in designing, implementing, and scaling up recovery projects.
  • Ensure that all programme activities align with UNDP’s strategic priorities, donor commitments, and national policies.
  • Oversee project execution, ensuring activities are completed on time and within budget.
  • Ensure the integration of gender-sensitive and socially inclusive approaches in programme activities.
  • Identify key bottlenecks, risks, and challenges and provide strategic recommendations for course correction.
  • Work closely with implementing partners, government agencies, NGOs, and UN agencies to maintain effective coordination.

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (M&E)

  • Develop a robust M&E framework to assess programme performance and impact.
  • Regularly monitor programme activities through field visits, stakeholder consultations, and data collection.
  • Generate progress reports, donor reports, and impact assessments, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to track programme outcomes and effectiveness.
  • Lead impact evaluation studies to measure programme effectiveness and document lessons learned.

3. Stakeholder Coordination and Donor Engagement

  • Maintain relationships with government ministries, UN agencies, donors, NGOs, and private sector partners.
  • Support the National Programme Coordinator (NPC) in ensuring programme alignment with national development plans and SDGs.
  • Prepare high-quality donor proposals, reports, and funding applications.
  • Represent UNDP in inter-agency coordination meetings, policy dialogues, and donor conferences.
  • Advocate for continued investment in disaster resilience and sustainable recovery initiatives.

4. Budget & Financial Management

  • Assist in the preparation of programme budgets, financial reports, and expenditure forecasts.
  • Ensure compliance with UNDP’s financial regulations and donor agreements.
  • Monitor programme expenditure and take corrective actions when necessary to avoid budget overruns.
  • Identify new funding opportunities and support resource mobilization efforts.

5. Communication, Advocacy, and Knowledge Sharing

  • Develop a communications strategy to highlight UNDP’s recovery efforts and impact.
  • Prepare case studies, success stories, and knowledge products to document best practices.
  • Organize capacity-building workshops for local partners and government officials.
  • Strengthen community engagement by promoting inclusive development approaches.
  • Contribute to policy development efforts by providing data-driven insights on flood recovery strategies.

Key Competencies and Skills

Core Competencies

  • Leadership & Strategic Thinking – Ability to manage complex projects, set priorities, and drive results.
  • Problem Solving & Innovation – Proactively identify challenges and implement innovative solutions.
  • Stakeholder Engagement & Diplomacy – Ability to build strong partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
  • Project Management & Execution – Proven experience in managing large-scale development programmes.
  • Analytical & Research Skills – Ability to interpret data, evaluate policies, and develop evidence-based strategies.
  • Communication & Negotiation – Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in donor engagement.
  • Financial & Budgeting Expertise – Understanding of financial management principles and UNDP financial systems.

Technical Skills

  • Programme Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Experience in designing and implementing M&E frameworks.
  • Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) – Knowledge of climate resilience and disaster response strategies.
  • Resource Mobilization & Fundraising – Experience in developing funding proposals and engaging with donors.
  • Governance & Policy Advocacy – Understanding of public administration, governance structures, and policy frameworks.

Eligibility Criteria & Qualifications

Educational Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in International Development, Public Administration, Political Science, Social Sciences, Economics, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in the above fields with two additional years of experience will be considered.

Professional Experience

  • 5 years (Master’s) or 7 years (Bachelor’s) of relevant experience in programme management, disaster response, or governance.
  • Experience working with government agencies, international organizations, and donor agencies.
  • Strong expertise in climate resilience, economic recovery, and post-disaster rehabilitation.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of UNDP policies, SDGs, and development frameworks.

Language Requirements

  • Fluency in English and Urdu is required.
  • Knowledge of regional languages (Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, etc.) is an asset.

Application & Selection Process

How to Apply?

  • Interested candidates must submit their applications online through UNDP’s recruitment portal before the deadline.
  • The application should include:
    • Updated CV/resume highlighting relevant experience.
    • Cover letter explaining why the candidate is a good fit for the role.
    • Contact details of three professional references.

Recruitment Process

  1. Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility.
  2. Shortlisting: Only candidates meeting the qualification criteria will be contacted.
  3. Written Test (if applicable): Some applicants may be required to take an online assessment.
  4. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with UNDP’s selection panel.
  5. Reference & Background Check: Verification of credentials, employment history, and references.
  6. Final Selection & Offer: Successful candidates will receive a formal offer letter.

Conclusion

The Programme Specialist (NPSA-10) role at UNDP Pakistan presents an exciting opportunity for experienced development professionals to lead flood recovery efforts and contribute to Pakistan’s sustainable development goals. The role requires technical expertise, leadership skills, stakeholder engagement, and a strong commitment to humanitarian work.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button