Programme Officer (Alternative Development)

Organizational Context

This Programme Officer position is based in the UNODC Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (ROSEAP) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The role reports to the Drugs Team Lead in Bangkok and receives guidance from the Deputy Regional Representative and the Country Manager for Myanmar. UNODC focuses on combating illicit drugs and crime.

Job Purpose

The Programme Officer will design, coordinate, and implement strategies to break the links between agricultural communities and illicit crops in Southeast Asia, particularly in Lao PDR and Myanmar. This involves supporting project teams in planning and executing Alternative Development activities, focusing on value chain development and budget management. The role serves as a key regional authority on Alternative Development and rural community development for UNODC, requiring close coordination with local teams, donors, and external agencies. The incumbent will also develop funding proposals, represent UNODC in relevant forums, advise management, and foster partnerships to enhance programme effectiveness and sustainability. Additionally, the role involves monitoring, evaluation, and promoting knowledge exchange and capacity building in Alternative Development.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include designing and coordinating Alternative Development strategies to reduce illicit crop cultivation in Southeast Asia, specifically Lao PDR and Myanmar. This involves supporting project teams in planning, budgeting, and implementing Alternative Development activities, with a focus on value chain development. The role requires serving as a principal regional authority on Alternative Development and rural community development, preparing detailed reports for donors, and developing funding proposals. The Programme Officer will represent UNODC in technical discussions, advise management on programme matters, and establish partnerships with public and private agencies. Responsibilities also include monitoring programme implementation, optimizing resource use, coordinating with research teams for impact evaluation, preparing outreach materials, promoting South-South cooperation, and organizing training sessions. Data analysis and reporting are essential, alongside participation in conferences and performing other related duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in project/programme management for Alternative Development (AD) is required. Experience supporting rural cooperatives, developing value chains in areas with limited infrastructure, and monitoring/evaluating AD projects is necessary. Experience in rural development in a Global South context, promoting women's empowerment, and working with diverse teams is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Teamwork, Planning and Organizing, conceptual and analytical skills, data analysis and interpretation, research, communication, and project management.

Explore related opportunities