Strategic Specialist Position at UNDP Nepal: Key Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Application Details

March 14, 2025

15 minutes read

This job is a full-time position under the National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10) at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme). The selected candidate will work closely with government agencies, UNDP teams, and other stakeholders to support Nepal’s efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring a smooth graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Key Aspects of the Job

1. Main Purpose of the Role

The Strategic Specialist will be responsible for policy support, coordination, technical oversight, and strategic partnerships to help Nepal align its economic development with SDGs and LDC graduation goals. The role involves working with federal and provincial governments to ensure that these goals are integrated into national policies, budgeting, and monitoring frameworks.

2. Major Responsibilitieshttp://Strategic Specialist Position at UNDP Nepal: Key Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Application Details

A. Strategic Partnership and Coordination

Build strong partnerships with government agencies, UNDP projects, and UN partner agencies.
Collaborate with province governments to integrate SDGs into their policies and budget planning.
Ensure cooperation with the private sector, civil society organizations (CSOs), academia, and local governments.
Lead engagements for the National Human Development Report 2025 (NHDR 2025) and ensure inclusivity in policy decisions.
Conduct field visits to project areas for monitoring and stakeholder engagement.

B. Technical Oversight and Project Management

Ensure smooth implementation of the Engagement Facility (EF) project under the SDGs financing framework.
Coordinate with stakeholders such as the Ministry of Finance, National Planning Commission, Central Bank, and private sector to introduce innovative financing mechanisms.
Prepare SDGs reports at both federal and provincial levels, using data from sources like the 2021 Census, Nepal Living Standards Survey (NLSS), and Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS).
Provide technical quality assurance and manage project resources effectively.
Develop Terms of Reference (TORs) for different project activities.
Ensure timely submission of technical reports and progress updates.

Provide policy advice on SDG financing, SDG-based budgeting, and data collection methodologies.
Develop policy briefs, concept notes, and communication materials to raise awareness of SDG and LDC-related agendas.
Offer technical support to federal, provincial, and local governments on SDG strategies and frameworks.

Ensure that gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) are mainstreamed across all policies and programs.
Work with the GESI advisor to promote inclusive economic development.
Provide technical guidance to government partners on integrating GESI into planning, budgeting, and monitoring.

Required Skills and Experience@vacancyspaces.com

1. Education

Master’s degree in economics, development studies, or a related field with 5 years of experience OR
Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of experience in the same fields.

2. Work Experience

Strong experience in development planning, financing, SDGs implementation, and LDC graduation policies.
Project management expertise with knowledge of UNDP rules and procedures.
Familiarity with Nepal’s policy framework and financial instruments for SDG financing.
Experience in working with government agencies on SDG costing, financing, and database management.
Knowledge of provincial and local governance structures in Nepal.

3. Language Requirements

Fluency in English and Nepali (both written and spoken).

Key Competencies Required

Core Competencies

Results-oriented mindset – Ability to scale up solutions and ensure effective implementation.
Innovative thinking – Open to new approaches and systemic thinking.
Continuous learning – Willing to adapt and develop new skills.
Adaptability – Can adjust to changing policies and environments.
Strategic engagement – Ability to build and maintain strong relationships.
Diversity and Inclusion – Ensuring equitable representation and participation.

Technical Skills

Systems Thinking – Ability to analyze how different elements of a system interact.
Knowledge Facilitation – Encouraging stakeholders to participate in decision-making.
Partnerships Management – Building relationships with government, private sector, and civil society.
Project and Resource Management – Effectively managing funds, human resources, and project timelines.
SDG Financing Expertise – Understanding and implementing financial instruments for SDG funding.

Contract & Work Conditions

Contract Duration: 1 year (with the possibility of extension).
Job Schedule: Full-time.
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal.
Mobility: No relocation required.

Why This Job is Important?

This role is critical for Nepal’s economic development and transition from an LDC to a middle-income country. It focuses on:
✅ Strengthening Nepal’s SDG financing strategies.
✅ Supporting policy development and implementation at national and provincial levels.
✅ Ensuring Nepal’s smooth graduation from LDC status by 2026.
✅ Promoting inclusive growth and sustainable economic policies.

Application Deadline & Process

Posting Date: March 11, 2025
Application Deadline: March 18, 2025, 08:14 PM
Apply through: UNDP’s official job portal.

Final Notes

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a core principle at UNDP. Candidates from marginalized backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
UNDP does not charge any application fees. If you receive any requests for payment, consider it a scam.
U.S. Green Card holders must switch to a G-4 visa before starting employment.

Would you like help with resume tips, cover letter drafting, or interview preparation for this role?

Strategic Specialist job at UNDP in Kathmandu, Nepal, including the job role, responsibilities, skills, competencies, importance, and application process.

Strategic Specialist – UNDP, Kathmandu, Nepal

1. Introduction to UNDP and the Role of a Strategic Specialist

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global organizations working towards sustainable development, poverty eradication, democratic governance, and crisis prevention and recovery. As part of its commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP collaborates with governments, civil society, private sector entities, and international development partners.

The Strategic Specialist role is a crucial position within UNDP Nepal, focusing on SDG financing, policy support, strategic engagement, and project implementation. This role directly contributes to Nepal’s transition from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a middle-income country and helps in formulating policies and strategies that align with national and international development goals.

2. Overview of the Job

Position: Strategic Specialist
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10)
Duration: 1-year contract (renewable based on performance and funding availability)
Schedule: Full-time
Application Deadline: March 18, 2025
Languages Required: English and Nepali

This position is designed for a highly qualified professional with expertise in economic development, SDG financing, strategic planning, and policy advisory.

3. Key Responsibilities of the Strategic Specialist

The Strategic Specialist is expected to lead, coordinate, and implement activities that promote sustainable development, economic growth, and financial stability in Nepal. The role is divided into several major areas:

A. Strategic Partnership and Coordination

The Strategic Specialist will be responsible for building partnerships with government agencies, UNDP projects, the private sector, and other stakeholders. Some of the key tasks include:

Collaboration with Government Agencies:
- Work with federal and provincial governments to integrate SDGs into national and regional policies.
- Partner with ministries, including the Ministry of Finance, National Planning Commission (NPC), Central Bank, and Statistics Office, to ensure effective financing for SDGs.
- Provide strategic guidance on LDC graduation plans and economic reforms.
Engagement with Development Partners:
- Work with UN agencies, international financial institutions, and donor organizations to mobilize resources for Nepal’s development agenda.
- Coordinate with civil society organizations (CSOs), private sector entities, and academia to promote inclusive development policies.
Field Visits and Monitoring:
- Conduct regular field visits to project sites, government offices, and stakeholder meetings.
- Ensure proper implementation of programs and monitor their impact on local communities.
National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2025:
- Support the design, research, and publication of NHDR 2025 in coordination with the National Planning Commission (NPC).
- Ensure data-driven, inclusive, and evidence-based reporting on SDGs progress.

B. Technical Oversight and Management of the Engagement Facility

The Engagement Facility (EF) is a key mechanism under this role, focusing on capacity-building, financial planning, and policy execution.

Planning and Implementation of EF Activities:
- Develop and oversee project plans, financial management strategies, and performance indicators for SDG financing.
- Ensure all project activities align with UNDP’s goals and are completed within the set timeframe.
Policy Formulation and Budgeting:
- Support the development of national policies related to economic growth and financial planning.
- Provide expert guidance on budget allocations, investment plans, and financing instruments for SDGs.
Stakeholder Meetings and Policy Dialogues:
- Organize high-level policy discussions with government officials, donors, and financial institutions.
- Facilitate knowledge-sharing platforms for experts, policymakers, and civil society representatives.
Quality Assurance and Performance Monitoring:
- Ensure all activities meet UNDP’s standards of efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
- Prepare progress reports, financial statements, and impact assessments to track project success.

C. Policy Advisory and Expert Guidance on SDG Financing

The Strategic Specialist will play a key role in guiding government bodies and financial institutions in SDG implementation.

Develop Financial Strategies for SDGs:
- Provide recommendations on how Nepal can bridge the SDG financing gap.
- Identify potential sources of funding, including public-private partnerships (PPPs), green financing, and international development aid.
Support SDG Budgeting and Investment Planning:
- Work with the Ministry of Finance and Central Bank to align government budgets with SDG priorities.
- Develop guidelines for SDG-based budgeting at federal and provincial levels.
Enhance Data Collection and Analysis:
- Strengthen Nepal’s statistical database on SDG progress using data from:
  - 2021 Census
  - Nepal Living Standards Survey (NLSS)
  - Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS)
Develop Knowledge Products and Policy Papers:
- Prepare policy briefs, reports, and research papers on economic growth, sustainable development, and SDG financing.
- Create awareness materials to engage policymakers, the private sector, and the public.

The Strategic Specialist must ensure that all projects and policies include considerations for gender equality and social inclusion (GESI).

Gender-Sensitive Policy Formulation:
- Ensure that national and provincial policies are inclusive of women, marginalized communities, and vulnerable populations.
- Support the integration of GESI principles into national budgeting and planning.
Capacity Building for Government and Civil Society:
- Train policymakers on how to incorporate gender equality in SDG planning.
- Work with the GESI Advisor to ensure social inclusion in all UNDP projects.

4. Required Skills and Competencies

A. Core Competencies

✅ Results-Oriented Thinking – Ability to drive projects to completion and solve complex problems.
✅ Innovative Thinking – Willingness to adopt new strategies for SDG financing.
✅ Adaptability and Resilience – Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple responsibilities.
✅ Collaboration and Leadership – Strong communication and networking skills.

B. Technical Competencies

Project Management – Planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
Data Analysis – Strong skills in economic research and statistical analysis.
Partnership Building – Ability to work with government, private sector, and international organizations.
Policy Advisory – Expertise in SDG financing, public finance, and development planning.

5. Application Process & Important Dates

Job Posting Date: March 11, 2025
Application Deadline: March 18, 2025
Selection Process:
1. Online Application
2. Shortlisting
3. Written Test & Interview
4. Final Selection

📌 How to Apply?
Visit UNDP’s official careers page and submit your application online.

6. Final Thoughts

The Strategic Specialist role is a high-impact position that requires expertise in economic policy, SDG financing, and government engagement. This job is ideal for professionals who want to make a significant contribution to Nepal’s sustainable development.

Would you like help with your resume, cover letter, or interview preparation

Strategic Specialist – UNDP, Kathmandu, Nepal

A Deep Dive into the Role, Responsibilities, and Impact

1. Introduction to UNDP and Its Role in Nepal

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a vital role in fostering socioeconomic development, good governance, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment in countries worldwide. In Nepal, UNDP has been a key development partner, working alongside the government, private sector, civil society, and international organizations to support Nepal’s sustainable development agenda.

A. UNDP’s Role in Nepal’s Development

Nepal, a country rich in cultural heritage and natural resources, faces significant economic challenges. The transition from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a Middle-Income Country (MIC) is a major policy focus, requiring strategic investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, governance, and economic empowerment.

UNDP’s work in Nepal focuses on:

Eradicating Poverty: Supporting income-generation programs, financial inclusion, and livelihood enhancement.
Promoting Inclusive Governance: Strengthening democratic institutions, decentralization, and human rights.
Enhancing Climate Resilience: Addressing environmental challenges and climate adaptation strategies.
Advancing Gender Equality: Ensuring women’s empowerment and participation in decision-making.
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning Nepal’s national policies with the 2030 SDG agenda.

The Strategic Specialist role is central to these objectives, particularly in the areas of SDG financing, economic growth strategies, and multi-stakeholder engagement.

2. Understanding the Strategic Specialist Role

The Strategic Specialist is a key technical advisor and coordinator who supports the government of Nepal, UNDP projects, and other stakeholders in driving SDG-focused policies. The role demands a deep understanding of development economics, policy analysis, project management, and financing mechanisms.

A. Key Job Details

Position Title: Strategic Specialist
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Agency: UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)
Grade Level: NPSA-10 (National Personnel Service Agreement)
Contract Duration: One year (renewable based on performance and funding availability)
Work Schedule: Full-time
Application Deadline: March 18, 2025
Languages Required: English and Nepali
Education Requirement:
- Master’s Degree (5 years of experience) OR
- Bachelor’s Degree (7 years of experience)

B. Why This Role Matters?

The Strategic Specialist position is not just a routine administrative job—it is a high-impact, policy-oriented role that directly influences Nepal’s development trajectory. The person in this role:

Shapes national policies on economic growth and SDG financing.
Bridges the gap between international donors and local governments.
Ensures that Nepal’s transition from an LDC to MIC is smooth and sustainable.
Supports the private sector, civil society, and local governments in aligning their plans with SDGs.

3. Key Responsibilities of a Strategic Specialist

The role is multifaceted, requiring expertise in policy advisory, strategic partnerships, SDG financing, and data analysis.

A. Strategic Partnership and Coordination

📌 Building Strong Institutional Partnerships

Establish collaborative relationships with federal and provincial government agencies to align Nepal’s development strategy with SDGs.
Work closely with the Ministry of Finance, Central Bank, National Planning Commission, and other stakeholders to mobilize resources for SDG implementation.
Strengthen partnerships between UNDP, private sector investors, donor agencies, and international organizations to attract innovative financing mechanisms.

📌 Strengthening Local Governance and Policy Implementation

Engage with provincial and municipal governments to integrate SDGs into local economic policies and budgetary frameworks.
Provide capacity-building support to government officials and policymakers on SDG planning, financing, and implementation strategies.
Work closely with civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions to ensure inclusivity in development planning.

📌 Developing the National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2025

Assist in research, policy formulation, and stakeholder engagement for Nepal’s National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2025.
Coordinate with the National Statistics Office to ensure accurate data collection and reporting on SDG progress indicators.
Support evidence-based decision-making by developing policy briefs, working papers, and thematic reports.

B. SDG Financing, Economic Growth Strategies, and Policy Advisory

📌 Innovative Financing Mechanisms for SDGs

Develop strategies to close Nepal’s SDG financing gap through innovative financial instruments such as:
- Green Bonds – To finance climate-resilient projects.
- Impact Investments – To attract private-sector funding for social enterprises.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) – To mobilize resources for infrastructure development.
- Blended Finance Models – Combining public and private funds for maximum impact.

📌 Enhancing Government Budgeting and Economic Policy Reforms

Support fiscal policy reforms to ensure that government budgets are aligned with SDG priorities.
Provide technical advisory services to the Ministry of Finance and Planning Commission on SDG financing mechanisms.
Develop policy recommendations on debt sustainability, taxation reforms, and investment strategies.

📌 Capacity Development for Policymakers and Financial Institutions

Conduct training programs for government officials, financial institutions, and the private sector on sustainable finance.
Create knowledge-sharing platforms to disseminate best practices in SDG financing.

C. Data-Driven Decision-Making and SDG Monitoring

📌 Strengthening Nepal’s Statistical Systems

Work with National Statistics Office to improve data collection methodologies and reporting mechanisms for SDG indicators.
Utilize data from:
- 2021 National Census
- Nepal Living Standards Survey (NLSS)
- Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS)

📌 Developing Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks

Establish robust Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) systems to track Nepal’s progress toward LDC graduation.
Implement data-driven policy interventions to ensure that development programs achieve measurable results.

📌 Mainstreaming GESI in Economic Development

Ensure that SDG financing strategies and economic policies address gender disparities.
Promote women-led businesses and entrepreneurship programs to foster inclusive economic growth.
Work with policymakers to create gender-responsive budgeting frameworks.

📌 Empowering Marginalized Communities

Ensure that SDG policies consider the needs of indigenous groups, Dalits, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized communities.
Facilitate participatory dialogues to include grassroots voices in national planning processes.

4. Skills and Competencies Required

✅ Technical Expertise

SDG Financing, Public Policy, Economic Analysis
Project Management and Stakeholder Engagement
Budget Planning, Data Analysis, Research & Reporting

✅ Soft Skills

Leadership and Strategic Thinking
Communication and Negotiation
Adaptability and Problem-Solving

5. Career Growth and Opportunities

Working as a Strategic Specialist at UNDP opens doors to high-level development policy roles. Future career pathways include:

Senior Economist / Policy Advisor at UNDP or UN Agencies
Director of Economic Planning at National/International Level
Consultant for World Bank, IMF, or International Think Tanks
Advisor to Government Ministries on SDG Financing

6. How to Apply?

📌 Visit UNDP’s official careers page and submit your application before March 18, 2025.

Would you like assistance with crafting your resume, cover letter, or preparing for an interview? Let me know! 😊

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nepal is seeking a Strategic Specialist for a full-time position based in Kathmandu. This role is integral to the SDGs Financing and Engagement Facility, aiming to support the acceleration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and facilitate Nepal’s smooth and sustainable graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Partnership and Coordination:
- Collaborate with federal and provincial government entities to integrate SDGs into policies, planning, budgeting, and monitoring processes.
- Foster partnerships with UNDP projects, UN agencies, private sectors, civil society organizations, academia, and sub-national governments to ensure inclusive participation in SDG initiatives.
- Engage with stakeholders for the preparation of the National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2025.
Technical Oversight and Management:
- Design and implement activities under the Engagement Facility (EF) to achieve stated outcomes and performance indicators.
- Ensure effective utilization of project resources to meet set outputs and outcomes.
- Prepare Terms of References and ensure timely submission of technical and progress reports.
Expert Policy Advice and Technical Inputs:
- Develop strategies for project implementation in collaboration with the Policy Advisor for Inclusive Economic Growth.
- Provide technical and advisory services to various levels of government on SDG financing, budgeting, data management, and LDC graduation.
- Prepare policy briefs, concept notes, and communication materials related to SDGs and LDC graduation.
Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI):
- Ensure GESI principles are integrated into all policy work and knowledge products under the EF.
- Support partners in incorporating GESI considerations into planning, programming, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.

Competencies:

Core Competencies:
- Achieve Results: Ability to scale up solutions and simplify processes while balancing speed and accuracy.
- Think Innovatively: Openness to new ideas and approaches, demonstrating systemic and integrated thinking.
- Learn Continuously: Willingness to step outside comfort zones, learn from others, and support their learning.
- Adapt with Agility: Ability to adapt processes and approaches to new situations, involving others in change processes.
- Act with Determination: Capacity to persevere and manage multiple sources of pressure simultaneously.
- Engage and Partner: Facilitate integration, bring people together, and build/maintain coalitions and partnerships.
- Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Facilitate conversations to bridge differences and consider diverse perspectives in decision-making.
People Management Competencies:
- Adherence to UNDP People Management Competencies.
Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies:
- Business Direction and Strategy:
  - System Thinking: Ability to understand interrelated elements within an overall process or system.
- Business Development:
  - Knowledge Facilitation: Ability to engage individuals and communities to participate and share knowledge.
- Business Management:
  - Partnerships Management: Ability to build and maintain partnerships with a wide network of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and private sector partners.
  - Project Management: Ability to plan, organize, and control resources, procedures, and protocols to achieve specific goals.
  - Resources Management: Ability to plan, monitor, organize, and control human and financial resources.
- 2030 Agenda:
  - Planet: Knowledge in Nature, Climate, and Energy, specifically in Chemicals and Waste management.
  - Peace: Understanding of Governance, Inclusion, and Participation.
  - People: Expertise in Gender Mainstreaming.

Required Skills and Experience:

Education:
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, development studies, or a related field, or
- A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s) in the mentioned areas with two additional years of qualifying experience.
Experience:
- Minimum of five years (with Master’s) or seven years (with Bachelor’s) of experience in development planning, financing, SDGs, and LDC graduation.
- Experience in project management.
- Good knowledge of UNDP rules and procedures or experience with UN assignments.
- Solid understanding of Nepal’s policy framework and financing instruments for SDGs.
- Experience working with the government on SDG costing, financing, database management, and LDC graduation agenda.
- Experience working with provincial and local governments on SDGs.
Languages:
- Fluency in oral and written English and Nepali.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the UNDP Jobs platform. Please ensure that you meet the required qualifications and experience before applying. The application deadline is March 18, 2025, at 8:14 PM.

Additional Information:

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

For more details and to apply, please visit the official UNDP job portal:

jobs.undp.org

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