​Requisition ID: 4759 
Grade: SB5 - Local Professional (Mid-Level & Senior) 
Country: Zambia 
Duty Station: Lusaka 
Category: National Consultant 
Type of Job Posting: Internal and External
Employment Type: NonStaff-Regular
Application deadline: 19-Nov-2024, 11:59 PM (CEST)  

Vacancy Announcement
TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT OF PROJECT PERSONNEL
Only nationals or permanent residents of the country of the duty station are considered eligible. 
Female candidates are encouraged to apply.
 

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is the specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability. The mission of UNIDO, as described in the Lima Declaration adopted at the fifteenth session of the UNIDO General Conference in 2013 as well as the Abu Dhabi Declaration adopted at the eighteenth session of UNIDO General Conference in 2019, is to promote and accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) in Member States. The relevance of ISID as an integrated approach to all three pillars of sustainable development is recognized by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will frame United Nations and country efforts towards sustainable development. UNIDO’s mandate is fully recognized in SDG-9, which calls to “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”. The relevance of ISID, however, applies in greater or lesser extent to all SDGs. Accordingly, the Organization’s programmatic focus is structured in four strategic priorities: Creating shared prosperity; Advancing economic competitiveness; Safeguarding the environment; and Strengthening knowledge and institutions.

Each of these programmatic fields of activity contains a number of individual programmes, which are implemented in a holistic manner to achieve effective outcomes and impacts through UNIDO’s four enabling functions: (i) technical cooperation; (ii) analytical and research functions and policy advisory services; (iii) normative functions and standards and quality-related activities; and (iv) convening and partnerships for knowledge transfer, networking and industrial cooperation. Such core functions are carried out in Divisions/Offices in its Headquarters, Regional Offices and Hubs and Country Offices.

The Directorate of Global Partnerships and External Relations (GLO)act as the central organizational entity of UNIDO to manage relations with UNIDO's Member States, donors and external partners and thereby ensure close internal coordination with the other Directorates. It will lead the development of UNIDO’s regional, sub-regional, and country-specific strategies. The Directorate houses the Divisions of Policymaking Organs (PMO), Regional Bureaus and Field Offices (RFO), Field and Liaison Strategy (FLS), Member States and Funding Relations (MSR), Special Operations (SOP), and Investment and Technology Promotion Offices and Institutional Partnerships (ITP).

It plays a central role for interaction and collaboration with traditional and non-traditional donors; oversees the regional bureaus as well as the network of established field offices, liaison offices and Investment and Technology Promotion Offices; and supports the implementation of particularly complex projects, programmes and special assignments, thus also fulfilling an important role in safeguarding their quality and the reputation of the Organization.

Core functions include:

• Support the allocation and appropriate management and administration of human and financial resources of the field and liaison office network in close cooperation with COR/HRM and COR/FIN;
• Upon requests and in line with regional strategies, ensure the development of country programmes (including PCPs) on sustainable industrial development through field offices and regional bureaus (if no field office is in place);
• Within the context of regional strategies and country programmes, ensure field offices develop and report on results-oriented yearly implementation plans specifying resource use, engagement of UNIDO staff from HQ and in the field, fundraising targets, sequencing of activities across time, engagement with stakeholder and the implementation of projects;
• Ensure implementation of recommendations made by oversight bodies and external/internal auditors.

The Division of Regional Bureaus and Field Offices (GLO/RFO) coordinates the field representation and interventions of UNIDO in Member States and regions. Within this context, the Division is responsible for determining programmatic priorities for UNIDO's services and ensuring that UNIDO responds to the specific needs and requirements of Member States and development partners at the country and regional levels.

It facilitates, upon guidance of GLO/FLS, the development of regional strategies, country programmes (including Programmes for Country Partnership, PCPs) and monitors their implementation.

This position is located under the Regional Coordination Divisions covering Africa (GLO/RFO/AFR), also hosting the IDDA III Secretariat.  In response to Member States request, UNIDO through (GLO/RFO/AFR) developed the Programme for Country Partnership (2021 – 2026) for Zambia and placing an emphasis on coordination modalities for the PCP implementation of the main identified developmental opportunities with emphasis on value addition, skill development and policymaking for advancing inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) in Zambia.

The PCP National Coordinator will work under the supervision of the UNIDO PCP Programme Manager (GLO/RFO/AFR) at HQ and with strategic guidance of the UNIDO Representative in the UNIDO Southern Africa Regional Office in South Africa covering Zambia.

The PCP National Coordinator will collaborate closely with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry (MCTI) as the line ministry and other relevant ministries and stakeholders as PCP partners.

The post implies utilization of office space and equipment at the MCTI premises, as part of the government’s in-kind contribution to the PCP Zambia

PROJECT CONTEXT

Programme for Country Partnership (PCP)-Zambia

The Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) represents UNIDO’s innovative approach to mobilizing external partners and resources, enhancing the effectiveness of its technical cooperation in promoting inclusive and sustainable industrial development. The primary goal of the PCP Zambia is to foster a diversified and competitive industrial economy, aligning with the strategic objectives outlined in Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP) 2017–2021, as well as the new Eighth National Development Plan (NDP8) 2022-2026. Additionally, the PCP supports the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Partnership Framework (UNSDPF) 2016-2022 and aligns with the UNSDCF 2023-2027 for Zambia.

Signed on November 29, 2021, during the 19th session of the UNIDO General Conference, the PCP is a five-year initiative between Zambia and UNIDO. It integrates UNIDO’s advisory and normative services, technical cooperation, and convening capabilities, providing a comprehensive service package designed to accelerate inclusive and sustainable development. The interventions under the PCP aim to unlock both public and private investments in selected priority industrial sectors, often focusing on large-scale industrial projects.

UNIDO’s role in a PCP is to:

• Facilitate the convening of partners and the overall coordination of the PCP;
• Design and develop a holistic Programme aimed at scaling up development results and building synergies with partner interventions in the country;
• Provide normative, policy and advisory services to the Government on industry-related issues;
• Deliver integrated and multidisciplinary technical assistance;
• Support the Government in mobilizing large-scale industrial investments from public and private partners.

The PCP is currently in the implementation phase, led by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry. The major milestones ahead include:

• Establishment of the PCP National Coordination Body (NCB), in cooperation with MCTI
• Operationalize the NCB Secretariat, with duties stipulated in the NCB Terms of Reference.
• Coordination and partner engagement
• Execution to ensure design, finance and implement mutually reinforcing interventions in line with the programme’s results framework and in synergy with national and partner interventions, including UNSDCF.
• Monitoring and reporting progress in line with the PCP 2024 annual work plan.

FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Under guidance and supervision of the Chief for the GLO/RFO/AFR and working with other colleagues within the Regional Bureau, Sub-Saharan Africa region, the Regional Office in South Africa and relevant project teams, the incumbent is responsible for the following tasks:

1. Support the PCP Programme Manager and UNIDO Representative in Building National Partnerships

Assist in developing and nurturing strategic national partnerships by collaborating with key stakeholders to align resources and priorities with the Programme for Country Partnership (PCP).

• Identify and Engage Strategic Partners: Proactively identify and engage partners from government, development organizations, the private sector, and academia to leverage diverse resources, expertise, and networks for maximum impact and sustainability of UNIDO’s initiatives in Zambia.
• Map Financial and Technical Partners: Conduct comprehensive mapping of potential financial and technical partners to support the PCP. Maintain a detailed database capturing essential information on partner and donor requirements, priority areas, and resources to enhance targeted engagement.
• Coordinate Stakeholder Dialogue: Establish and sustain constructive communication with key national and regional stakeholders, including government representatives and development partners, ensuring alignment with the PCP's objectives and national priorities while promoting cross-sector collaboration.
• Ensure UN Representation: Collaborate with the PCP Programme Manager and UR, with support from the Regional Bureau for Africa, to ensure UNIDO’s active participation in the UN Country Team (UNCT) Zambia. This includes contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) Results Groups and participation in Programme Management Team (PMT) meetings.
• Key Deliverables: Provide regular updates on partnership opportunities, maintain an overview of ongoing and pipeline projects, and continuously update the PCP partner-mapping tool to optimize engagement and resource allocation.

2. Support Resource Mobilization

Assist the PCP Programme Manager and UR in coordinating meetings, roundtables, and events aimed at mobilizing national and international financial resources for the successful implementation of the PCP.

• Key Deliverables: Mobilize and secure national and international financial resources for the PCP. Organize and execute the PCP Zambia Donor Round Table, engaging stakeholders to ensure strong financial backing. Maintain documentation of commitments made during engagements to support sustainable funding and long-term partnerships.

3. Provide Secretariat Support to the National Coordination Body (NCB)

Deliver secretariat assistance to the NCB, ensuring alignment with the Terms of Reference (ToR) agreed upon with national counterparts, thereby enhancing efficiency.

• Conduct a Midterm Review of the PCP: Perform a thorough review to assess alignment with Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan (NDP8), evaluating progress and identifying areas for adjustment.
• Review and Refine NCB Structure: Assess the NCB's current structure, gather feedback from key stakeholders, and facilitate the endorsement of annual PCP work plans.
• Key Deliverables: Follow up on the revised NCB structure for strategic alignment, organize the first NCB meeting under the updated structure, maintain detailed records on PCP operations, ensure timely follow-up on NCB decisions, and provide comprehensive reports to UNIDO on NCB activities.
• Foster Communication and Coordination: Maintain continuous communication with NCB members and partner organizations, ensuring stakeholders are informed of PCP developments and promoting collaboration to avoid duplication of efforts.

4. Assist in Project Development

Provide comprehensive support during key phases of project and sub-programme development, including identification, formulation, resource mobilization, and implementation.

• Project Identification and Formulation: Assist in identifying potential projects aligning with PCP objectives and national priorities, ensuring they are well-structured with clear goals and resource needs.
• Resource Mobilization: Actively contribute to mobilizing necessary financial, technical, and in-kind resources, engaging national and international partners and donors.
• Project Implementation: Support the execution of PCP projects, ensuring adherence to timelines and expected outcomes, including monitoring and reporting to maximize impact.
• Follow Up on IDDA III Activities: Manage feedback on IDDA III Champion invitations and ensure timely communication with stakeholders to promote engagement in IDDA III initiatives.
• Coordinate and Arrange Events: Organize and manage PCP-related events, ensuring smooth execution through effective logistics planning and materials preparation.

5. Support the Implementation of the PCP Communication Strategy

Assist in rolling out a comprehensive communication strategy for the PCP at the country level, ensuring alignment with UNIDO’s communication goals.

• Promote Individual Initiatives: Ensure effective promotion of all Technical Cooperation (TC) projects within the PCP framework, highlighting their contributions to national development goals.
• Contribute to Communication Materials: Create and enhance communication materials such as articles, reports, and success stories for UNIDO’s website and social media, ensuring clarity and alignment with key messages.
• Liaise with Local Media and UNIC Zambia: Maintain regular communication with local media and the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Zambia to disseminate information on PCP activities and enhance UNIDO’s visibility.

6. Prepare and Deliver Periodic Reports

Compile and present detailed reports to the PCP Programme Manager, UNIDO Representative, and the National Coordination Body (NCB).

• Facilitate the Finalization of the PCP Zambia 2024 Annual Report: Contribute to data gathering, synthesizing stakeholder information, and ensuring accurate reflection of achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
• Ensure Stakeholder Feedback: Incorporate feedback from stakeholders to refine the report and facilitate discussions on key messages to communicate the PCP's impact effectively.
• Disseminate the Final Report: Coordinate the distribution of the PCP Zambia 2024 Annual Report to relevant stakeholders to promote transparency and continued engagement.

7. Prepare and Submit a Timely End-of-Assignment Report

Compile and deliver a comprehensive end-of-assignment report detailing key activities, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

• Outline Objectives and Outcomes: Clearly delineate original objectives and assess their fulfillment, supporting evaluations with quantitative and qualitative data.
• Highlight Key Activities and Achievements: Detail significant activities undertaken, emphasizing contributions to PCP objectives and overall impact, including innovative approaches or best practices.
• Identify Challenges and Lessons Learned: Reflect on encountered challenges and employed strategies, documenting lessons learned for future projects.
• Provide Recommendations for Future Action: Offer actionable recommendations based on findings to address improvements, sustain successes, and consider future assignments.
• Ensure Timely Submission: Adhere to report submission timelines, completing necessary reviews and approvals while collaborating with stakeholders for prompt finalization.

MINIMUM ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Education: Advanced university (master’s or equivalent) degree in economics, engineering, international relations or a similar degree is required

Technical and Functional Experience:

• At least 5 years of experience in project and programme coordination is required.

  Familiarity with the local socio-economic situation and conditions, as well as trade competitiveness and market access related issues, particularly in the region where the UNIDO Programme has operational activities is required.

  Experience in regional economic integration and interacting with the COMESA Secretariat and EU Delegation is desirable.

  Knowledge of relevant national and international institutional, legal and procedural frameworks, particular the donor community (including their priorities and requirements) as well as the development actors and the UN system in Zambia is required.

  Familiarity with the private sector actors, relevant local capacities and existing initiatives in the country is required.

  Understanding of the work and activities of developmental and international financial institutions, their mandates and their role in engaging the private sector actors in development initiatives is required.

  Knowledge of UNIDO's mandate, activities, and familiarity with financial and administrative policies, rules and procedures of the United Nations system is desirable.

  Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of French is an asset.

Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of French is an asset.

Deliverables: Produced reports and strategic documents must be comprehensive, concise, of high quality and well written. The reports should be submitted in English, in electronic format, via e- mail. Neither entire reports/documents, nor parts of the reports/documents may be disseminated or presented in any form without the explicit permission of the UNIDO management.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core values:

WE LIVE AND ACT WITH INTEGRITY: work honestly, openly and impartially.

WE SHOW PROFESSIONALISM: work hard and competently in a committed and responsible manner.

WE RESPECT DIVERSITY: work together effectively, respectfully and inclusively, regardless of our differences in culture and perspective.

Key competencies:

WE FOCUS ON PEOPLE: cooperate to fully reach our potential –and this is true for our colleagues as well as our clients. Emotional intelligence and receptiveness are vital parts of our UNIDO identity.

WE FOCUS ON RESULTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: focus on planning, organizing and managing our work effectively and efficiently. We are responsible and accountable for achieving our results and meeting our performance standards. This accountability does not end with our colleagues and supervisors, but we also owe it to those we serve and who have trusted us to contribute to a better, safer and healthier world.

WE COMMUNICATE AND EARN TRUST: communicate effectively with one another and build an environment of trust where we can all excel in our work.

WE THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND INNOVATE: To stay relevant, we continuously improve, support innovation, share our knowledge and skills, and learn from one another.

This appointment is limited to the specified project(s) only and does not carry any expectation of renewal.
Employees of UNIDO are expected at all times to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity, both at work and outside. Only persons who fully and unconditionally commit to these values should consider applying for jobs at UNIDO.

All applications must be submitted online through the Online Recruitment System. Correspondence will be undertaken only with candidates who are being considered at an advanced phase of the selection process. Selected candidate(s) may be required to disclose to the Director General the nature and scope of financial and other personal interests and assets in respect of themselves, their spouses and dependents, under the procedures established by the Director General.

Visit the UNIDO website for details on how to apply: www.unido.org

NOTE: The Director General retains the discretion to make an appointment to this post at a lower level.

Notice to applicants:
UNIDO does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. If you have received a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Vacant positions within UNIDO are advertised on the official UNIDO website. Should you have any questions concerning persons or companies claiming to be recruiting on behalf of UNIDO and requesting payment of a fee, please contact: recruitment@unido.org