PROGRAMME SPECIALIST/NATIONAL PROGRAMME OFFICER

Location :Bratislava, SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Application Deadline :13-Mar-09
Type of Contract :100 Series
Post Number :00011150
Post Level :NOC
Languages Required :English
Starting Date :
(date when the selected canditate is expected to start) 01-Apr-2009
Duration of Initial Contract :1 year
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Background
Since 2001, UNIFEM Regional Office for CEE based in Bratislava, Slovakia has been supporting and developing innovative and catalytic initiatives promoting women’s rights and gender equality in Central and Eastern European countries (the Western Balkans). UNIFEM’s projects focus on strengthening women’s participation in decision-making processes, promotion of women’s economic and social rights, supporting women’s participation in peace-building and security sector reform processes and on building violence-free societies. In support to current development work in the region, UNIFEM Regional Office for CEE is looking for the Programme Specialist who, under the supervision of the Regional Programme Director will fulfill the following duties and responsibilities:

Duties and Responsibilities

The Programme Specialist will be responsible for the management of the UNIFEM portfolio of programmes, projects and other initiatives and activities, following UNDP/UNIFEM rules and procedures. More specifically:

* Analyze regional economic, social and political factors, which affect UNIFEM programmes and projects in the region, in close coordination with the RPD;
* Identify regional development needs relevant to UNIFEM’s activities and develop programme proposals to support Strategic Plan for 2008-2011;
* Assist RPD in design and formulation of regional programmes and projects integrating thematic areas;
* Monitor complex portfolios of projects with significant non-core resources and multiple donors to ensure that objectives are met and delivered timely;
* Participate in project and donor evaluation of projects;
* Participate in fact-finding, inception and implementation of missions covering all the countries in the region;
* Prepare mission reports, liaise with lead agencies and develop follow-up plans for implementation;
* Develop with RPD, strategic regional partnerships with donors, private sector, NGOs and UN Agencies to support UNIFEM’s programmes;
* Assist RPD with resource mobilization efforts in the region;
* Participate in relevant meetings and provide follow-up on donor reporting;
* Support RPD in managing and developing RO, and building strong regulatory framework; promote teamwork; coordinate programme development and manage results based management framework;
* Backstop RPD on office programatic issues, participate in selection and briefing of consultants;
* Review consultant’s reports and provide feedback;
* Represent UNIFEM at regional meetings, seminars and ensure follow-up and feedback on these meetings;
* Participate in international meetings when requested by RPD;
* Provide substantive inputs to corporate exercises such as the Annual Report, Progress Reports, UNIFEM publications, press-releases and other strategic exercises.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies:

* Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN's values and ethical standards
* Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNIFEM
* Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability


Technical/Functional:

* Substantive knowledge and understanding specifically on gender equality issues as well as more broadly, human rights and development cooperation
* Demonstrated ability to work with governmental bodies as well as civil society organizations on the advancement of women and equal rights issues.
* Substantive experience with development issues in the CEE region
* Experience in programme management, coordination and implementation
* Excellent writing skills with demonstrated ability to carry out research, to contribute to the formulation of policies, procedures and guidelines
* Proficient in IT skills
* Familiarity with results based management and rights-based programming
* Familiarity with UN system

Interpersonal:

* Excellent interpersonal communication skills, initiative and dynamism.
* Ability to work in an international and multicultural environment.
* Maturity, ability to take decisions under pressure and ability to deal with matters that are politically or culturally sensitive.
* Ability to work as a member of a team
* Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
* Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities

Required Skills and Experience
Master`s degree or equivalent in development related disciplines (social sciences, international law, development studies, gender studies, and/or similar discipline).
A minimum of 5 years of specialized experience in development, gender and/or human rights at the national and international level.
Excellent written and spoken English; Knowledge of other languages of CEE is preferred.

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