Background
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.
UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations' global development network, advocating for sustainable development and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to build a better future. We are on the ground in 177 countries, working with them on theirown solutions to global and national development challenges. In Namibia, UNDP collaborates with the Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) to address challenges related to environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth.
We support the GRN to identifying key challenges in meeting its Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by improving capacities at the national, regional and local levels. To accelerate structural transformations for sustainable development our programming priorities, the UNDP Namibia Country Office has organized its programmatic activity into three portfolios: Sustainable, Inclusive and Green Growth (SIGG); Governance, Inclusive Institutions and Civic Engagement (GRICE) and Sustainable Environmental Management and Enhanced Resilience to Shocks and Crises (SEMER).
The SEMER Portfolio aims to ensure that by 2029, Namibia integrates gender-inclusive systems for sustainable natural resources management, reduced climate change vulnerability and enhanced resilience of marginalized communities and young people. The Portfolio can broadly be divided into three overlapping areas of work: (a) sustainable management of natural resources and biodiversity; (b) climate change adaptation and mitigation; and (c) renewable and affordable energy solutions.
With this background, UNDP is looking for a Programme Associate to support the SEMER Portfolio. The Programme Associate is expected to be fully committed and passionate about the wise utilization, protection and sustainable management of Namibia’s environment, considering the global, regional and national environmental challenges. Under the direct supervision of the UNDP Programme Head/Specialist, the Programme Associate will provide critical support in coordinating and implementing activities under the SEMER portfolio. This role will ensure efficient programme operations, financial oversight, and strategic partnerships to achieve the portfolio’s objectives. The Programme Associate works in close collaboration with the Country Office (CO) Senior Management Team, Programme and Operations teams and programme staff in other UN Agencies, UNDP regional hubs and head quarter staff. Core Competencies Description of Competency at Level Required Achieve Results: LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline Think Innovatively: LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements Learn Continuously: LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible Act with Determination: LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident Engage and Partner: LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity Technical Competencies Description of Competency at Level Required Project Management Ability to plan, organise, and oversee the execution of projects to achieve specific goals and objectives. Financial Management Competency in budgeting, financial reporting, and expenditure tracking. Data Management and Analysis Proficiency in collecting, managing, and analysing qualitative and quantitative data. Procurement and Contract Management Familiarity with procurement processes, including tendering, evaluation, and contract management. Report Writing Ability to prepare quality reports Knowledge Management Competency in documenting and disseminating best practices, lessons learned, and success stories.
Scope of Work
Under direct supervision of the Programme Specialist - SEMER, the Programme Associate will carry out the following primary responsibilities:
Programme and Financial Management Support
Assist in the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of the Country Programme Document (CPD), Annual Work Plans (AWPs), and project budgets to ensure that activities are implemented effectively and on time. Provide comprehensive support in the financial management of projects, including budget preparation, financial reporting, and expenditure tracking in compliance with UNDP financial rules and regulations. Manage project financial transactions, including requisitions, payments, and procurement processes, in the Quantum system to ensure efficient and timely project implementation. Support the monitoring of project expenditures and ensure adherence to the Internal Control Framework and UNDP's financial management policies.Project Implementation and Coordination
Coordinate the day-to-day operations of project activities within the SEMER Portfolio to ensure effective implementation and timely delivery of results. Assist in organizing and coordinating meetings, workshops, field missions, and other events related to SEMER projects, including handling all logistical and administrative arrangements. Support procurement processes in collaboration with the operations team, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and procedures. Provide assistance in preparing project progress reports, donor reports, and other documentation to ensure timely and quality reporting to stakeholders. Monitor project performance indicators and support data collection and analysis for project monitoring and evaluation.Resource Mobilization
Support the SEMER Head/Programme Specialist in resource mobilization efforts, including conducting research on potential funding opportunities and preparing donor profiles. Assist in the drafting and review of concept notes, project proposals, and funding applications in alignment with SEMER's strategic priorities. Track donor contributions and manage donor reporting requirements to ensure compliance with funding agreements and deadlines.Knowledge Management and Communication
Document and disseminate lessons learned, best practices, and success stories from SEMER projects to support knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. Contribute to the development of knowledge products, reports, presentations, and communication materials to raise awareness about SEMER initiatives. Maintain an organized and updated filing system for project documentation, reports, and correspondence.Additional Responsibilities
Assist in the onboarding processes for project teams and consultants. Support the preparation of project progress reports, donor reports, and other required documentation. Provide technical and operational support during field missions, ensuring effective coordination with external consultants and stakeholders. Undertake additional tasks as assigned to support the overall objectives of the SEMER portfolio. Institutional ArrangementThe Programme Associate will report directly to the SEMER Head/Programme Specialist. The incumbent will work closely with other programme, operations, and project staff within the UNDP Namibia Country Office, as well as with implementing partners, government entities, and development stakeholders. Approved costs to arrange meetings, workshops, travel costs, and DSA during field visits shall be covered by UNDP.