Trust Fund Manager [Open to Internal and External candidates]
Organizational Context
The Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA) was established to channel donor resources and coordinate support for UN joint programmes aligned with the UN Strategic Framework for Afghanistan. The Trust Fund Management Unit (TFMU) serves as the Fund Secretariat, responsible for operational functioning and providing support to the Steering Committee. The role reports to the Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, leading key teams within the TFMU.
Job Purpose
The Trust Fund Manager is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and operational management of the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA). This involves providing expert advice to the Steering Committee on fund priorities, managing and coordinating all activities financed by the fund, and ensuring alignment with Agenda 2030 and national priorities. The role also encompasses developing and implementing communication and resource mobilization strategies, fostering strategic partnerships with donors and stakeholders, and leading knowledge management initiatives to analyze and disseminate best practices and lessons learned from fund activities. Additionally, the manager is responsible for the effective oversight and management of the Trust Fund Management Unit (TFMU) team, including work planning, budgeting, and staff supervision.
Responsibilities
The Trust Fund Manager will provide strategic advice to the STFA Steering Committee, support the review and redesign of governance and coordination arrangements, and ensure the development of strategic planning documents. Responsibilities include overseeing the Fund's Terms of Reference and Operations Manual, providing technical and administrative support to the Steering Committee and Working Groups, and coordinating with the Administrative Agent (MPTF Office). The role involves guiding UN participating organizations on programming, implementing calls for proposals, ensuring quality control of funded projects, and managing fund monitoring and risk strategies. Furthermore, the manager will develop and implement communication and resource mobilization strategies, build strategic partnerships with donors and other stakeholders, and lead outreach to civil society, foundations, and the private sector. Knowledge management, including systematization of best practices and lessons learned, is crucial. The manager will also oversee the TFMU's activities, including work planning, budgeting, hiring, and risk control.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of relevant experience (with a Master's degree) or twelve years (with a Bachelor's degree) is required. This experience should be at the national and/or international level, focusing on the design and management of Trust Funds or large-scale programs, including results-based management, finance, and operations. Experience in resource mobilization and partnership development is also essential.
Skills
Core Competencies: Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, Enable Diversity and Inclusion. Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies: Partnership management (Relationship management, Multi-stakeholder engagement and funding), Business management (Risk management), Business Development (Integration within the UN, Knowledge Facilitation), Business Direction & Strategy (Negotiation and Influence, System Thinking).