Project Specialist [Open to internal and external applicants]
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global leader in sustainable development, working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) within UNDP mobilizes expertise to shape the future of development. The Italy Africa Digital Flagship programme, implemented with national governments and partners, focuses on digital infrastructure, identity, agritech, and data-driven governance.
Job Purpose
The Project Specialist will be embedded in the UNDP Rome Centre to ensure effective coordination, management, and delivery of the Italy-Africa Digital Development Flagship Programme across multiple countries and stakeholders. This role is crucial for achieving programme objectives through high-quality project implementation, alignment with donor requirements, timely output delivery, and effective stakeholder coordination. The specialist will contribute to programme coherence across countries and thematic areas, navigating a complex multi-stakeholder environment with tight timelines and diverse partner expectations. The position supports the strategic direction and operational success of digital development initiatives in Africa.
Responsibilities
Provide strategic guidance and coordination for all programme components and participating countries, ensuring coherence with UNDP priorities and the programme's vision. Lead the review and quality assurance of project documents and deliverables, ensuring alignment with national priorities and consistency across components. Oversee the adaptation of project proposals to meet evolving donor requirements, facilitating coordination for compliance. Serve as the primary interface with UNDP Country Offices, Italian private sector entities, associations, and national counterparts to foster communication and collaboration. Provide technical and operational guidance to Country Offices for effective and timely implementation, addressing bottlenecks. Identify and advise on mitigating programmatic, operational, political, and reputational risks. Oversee the preparation of high-quality programme reports and updates. Capture and systematize lessons learned and best practices to inform future programming. Participate in meetings and missions to strengthen partnerships.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in programme and project management is required for candidates with a Master's degree, or 9 years for those with a Bachelor's degree. Experience should preferably be in international development, climate, energy, or digital development contexts. Experience managing multi-country programmes, working with international organizations, and coordinating with government counterparts and partners is essential.
Skills
Core Competencies: Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, Enable Diversity and Inclusion. Technical Competencies: System Thinking, Knowledge Facilitation, Resource Management, Project Management, Co-creation, Innovation Management, Monitoring & Evaluation.