Team Leader - Environment

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.

Guided by the global UNDP Strategic Plan (2022 – 2025) and UNDP Country Programme Document (CPD) for Lao PDR (2022 – 2026), UNDP in Lao PDR works closely with the line Ministries, mass organizations, civil society, development partners, and the private sector at both national and sub-national levels in pursuit of the national socio-economic development priorities defined in Lao PDR’s five-year National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The UNDP’s work is strongly focused on the provision of policy advice and technical support to the Government of Lao PDR in the design and implementation of national legislation and strategies across three broad priority pillars – (1) inclusive growth and reduced inequalities, including UXO clearance and risk education, (2) natural resources, climate change and disaster risk reduction, and (3) effective, responsive, and accountable governance (Lao PDR | UNDP).

UNDP has a long history working in Lao PDR. UNDP’s comparative advantage has been its ability to work closely with a very broad range of government and local-level institutions at all levels. The UNDP country programme is aligned with the 9th NSEDP and aims to support Lao PDR recover from the economic and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and continue its transition from LDC status, with a particular emphasis on supporting inclusive growth and reducing inequality.

Position Purpose

Under the supervision of the Deputy Resident Representative and overall guidance of the Resident Representative, the Programme Specialist acts as the Team Leader of the Natural Resources Management, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Unit (“Environment Unit”). S/he ensures effective oversight on programme/ portfolio management, accountability, and achievement of the CPD results within the assigned outcome, and supervises staff assigned within the Natural Resources Management, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction (NRM, CC & DRR) Unit. The Programme Specialist/Team Leader leads in policy development, strategic planning and advisory services on all aspects of the country programme in the area of natural resources management, climate change and disaster risk reduction, and implements activities related to programme design, monitoring, identification of new areas and opportunities for programmatic engagement in line with the CPD. 

S/he works in close collaboration with other Team Leaders and colleagues across all teams, including programme and operations, Communications, and Accelerator Lab, as well as with staff in the Regional Bureau, Bangkok Regional Hub and HQ locations. S/he also ensures strong cooperation with UN Agencies in Lao PDR, national partners from the Government, civil society, and international partners, including donors through multilateral and/or bilateral arrangements. 

The position requires occasional travel within the country to conduct monitoring/field visits, as required by the nature of the portfolio and programming interventions. 

UNDP adopts a portfolio approach to accommodate changing business needs and leverage linkages across interventions to achieve its strategic goals. Therefore, UNDP personnel are expected to work across units, functions, teams, and projects in multidisciplinary teams in order to enhance and enable horizontal collaboration.
 

Duties and Responsibilities

Provides strategic direction and effective management of the country programme, focusing on the area of Natural Resource Management, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction (NRM, CC and DRR):

• Leads programme/ project design with development partners, UN Agencies and implementing partners for the portfolio, ensuring robust articulation of the Theory of Change and results framework linking inputs and activities to programme outputs and outcomes, supported with evidence to report on the Strategic Plan and CPD indicators. 
• Contributes to the analysis of the political, social, and economic situation in the country and ensures collaborative and coordinated preparation/revision of the Common Country Analysis (CCA), UN Sustainable Cooperation Development Framework (UNSCDF), CPD, CO business planning (COBP), Integrated Work Plan and results reporting, project documents, policy briefs, briefing notes and other programmatic documents.
• Identifies and analyzes strategic programmatic areas of cooperation based on the strategic goals of UNDP, the country needs, donors’ priorities and the operationalization of the CPD with the Government and other partners of UNDP.
• Promotes and facilitates innovation and the identification of innovative development solutions to the delivery of results. 
• Leverages innovative approaches, resources, and collaborative efforts to enhance programme and project impact.
• Ensures regular monitoring and analysis of the programme environment, timely adjustment of programme, measuring of the impact of the projects, and that results and lessons learned inform analysis, policy and programme, and project work.
• Ensures effective application of results-based management tools and high-quality reporting of results for internal and external audiences.
• Ensures the integration of women empowerment and gender equality into programming and budgeting/resource allocation and supports the CO efforts to uphold the Gender Equality Seal requirements
• Participates and contributes to the CO and Inter-Agency (if applicable) thematic focal teams, actively making sure that the activities under the respective plans are delivered successfully. 
• Facilitates robust monitoring of key performance indicators and risks of the portfolio and leads the direction and implementation of corrective strategies and management measures based on risk-informed analysis and trends.
• Ensures effective monitoring of pipeline management system, programme delivery and applies appropriate actions for delivery acceleration measures.
• Applies UNDP’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework in the assigned portfolio, including the application of the Social and Environmental Standards (SES) in each project and ensures adequate safeguards measures. 
• Manages team(s) and ensures that the team-specific enabling actions are included in the annual plans and implemented to meet the set targets contributing to the CO’s performance in corporate and regional Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Coordinates UNDP’s support to development institutions working towards addressing national development priorities in collaboration with the Government and other strategic partners. 

Ensures accountability, quality control and effective oversight of programme and projects:

• Provides strategic planning, quality assurance and oversight of the assigned portfolio of programmes/projects and ensures their compliance with programme and operations policies and procedures (POPP) and quality assurance standards.
• Ensures annual work planning, monitoring, evaluation and reporting of assigned portfolio in line with requirements (e.g., budget revisions, approval of combined delivery reports (CDRs), etc.).
• Facilitates and quality assures the project documentation prior to final approval by the Senior Management and ensures proper document management and update in the corporate systems and regional platforms (Quantum, Quantum+ and others). 
• Performs the Approving manager function within the authority delegated by the Resident Representative in line with the established Internal Control Framework and ensures appropriate separation of duties is in place. 
• Ensures implementation of the Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfer (HACT) framework covering micro assessments, assurance plans and assurance activities; carries out programme/monitoring visits, ensuring appropriate remedial actions are implemented, as needed, in accordance with UNDP Financial Rules and Regulations and HACT policies.
• Implements risk-management and anti-fraud mechanisms, tracking of financial resources, and provides support in addressing gaps or applying corrective measures in accordance with UNDP rules and regulations.
• Performs clearance measures (incl. tracking of NIM advances/reimbursements, liquidation of NIM advances, clearance of Funding Authorization and Certificate of Expenditure (FACE) forms, escalating and advising the CO Management on timely remedial actions required).
• Facilitates assessment of barriers and opportunities to enable private sector engagement and participation and quality assures all required capacity and risk assessments, including private sector due diligence.
• Ensures compliance with the CO cost-recovery strategy for delivery enabling services (DES) provided to programmes and projects, in close collaboration with the Operations Manager and Programme Support Unit.
• Supervises the team and ensures adherence to the POPP, as well as established CO business processes and internal controls; contributes to the design of the Standard Operating Procedures on programme and project management at the CO level.
• Supervises Project Managers / Coordinators, as required.

Ensures establishment and maintenance of strategic partnerships and leads resources mobilization efforts in the natural resource management, climate change and disaster risk reduction (NRM, CC & DRR) focus area:

• Identifies strategic opportunities and leads engagement on potential joint programming with other UN agencies and entities.
• Ensures development and implementation of CO partnerships and resource mobilization strategies to achieve country programme outcomes related to Pillar 2 – Environment, Climate Change and Resilience. Leads effective pipeline development on environment related initiatives in the Office. 
• Supports deployment of partnership strategies and related actions with a focus on programme portfolio development and the identification of sustainable and predictable funding mechanisms for the implementation of the country programme.
• Leads and maintains strong partnerships with relevant development partners and government, UN agencies, IFIs, government institutions, bilateral and multilateral donors, private sector, and civil society in the designated support areas.
• As part of the overall CO partnerships strategy and action plan, develops new project concepts, project documents and financing agreements in line with UNDP corporate rules and procedures, and quality standards. 
• Ensures the preparation of analysis and research of information on partners, donor profiles, preparation of substantive briefs on possible areas of cooperation, identification of opportunities for cost-sharing and initiation of new projects, active contribution to the overall CO efforts in resource mobilization.
• Leads engagement, networking and mobilization of experts of the international development community, government partners, UN agencies, and prominent think tanks in the areas of responsibility.
• Leads the development of strategies for government cost-sharing in the area of Environment, as required. 
• Ensures quality and timely donor reporting and adherence to the conditions and requirements of partnership agreements by programme teams and projects.

Leads the provision of top-quality advisory services and facilitates effective knowledge management: 

• Integrates evaluation findings, real-time monitoring data, and applied learning to adaptive programme and project management and policy advisory work.
• Ensures capacity building of national counterparts for effective management and compliance with funding partner’s requirements within UNDP projects.
• Maintains effective network with development partners and Government at the national level and sub-national level and where necessary links up with the corporate Global Policy Network of UNDP and other international development actors.
• Leads the implementation of awareness building and advocacy around UN/UNDP events and supports strategic communications work and knowledge management initiatives, including the development of high-quality multi-media and outreach material and products on NRM, CC & DRR in close collaboration with the CO and Unit Communications Focal Points.
• Provides sound and proactive contributions on key environment issues to corporate, regional and CO events, knowledge networks and communities of practice.
• Writes and communicates on best practices and lessons learned linked to programme and policy goals.
• Facilitates knowledge building and management especially between the programme and projects and facilitates trainings for the UNDP staff and personnel and national counterparts on relevant programme issues.
• Contributes to the development of training materials and organizes workshops, as required by the supervisor.

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities: The Programme Specialist/Team Leader will be responsible for supervision, performance management and development of Programme Analysts, Programme Associates and other relevant programme staff and personnel. 

Competencies

 Core Competencies

Achieve Results-LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact

Think Innovatively-LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems

Learn Continuously-LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences

Adapt with Agility-LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands

Act with Determination-LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results

Engage and Partner-LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration

Enable Diversity and Inclusion-LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity

People Management

UNDP People Management Competencies can be found on the dedicated site. 

Cross-Functional & Technical competencies 

Business Direction & Strategy System Thinking : Ability to use objective problem analysis and judgement to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system, and to consider how altering one element can impact on other parts of the system
2030 Agenda: Planet-Nature, Climate and Energy: Disaster Risk Reduction
2030 Agenda: Planet-Nature, Climate and Energy: Ecosystems and Biodiversity
2030 Agenda: Planet-Nature, Climate and Energy: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Business Management-Communication: Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and unambiguous manner both through written and verbal communication;
Business Management-Results-based Management: Ability to manage programmes and projects with a focus on improved performance and demonstrable results
Business Management-Partnerships Management: Ability to build and maintain partnerships with wide networks of stakeholders, governments, civil society and private sector partners, experts, and others in line with UNDP strategy and policies
Business Management-Risk Management: Ability to identify and organize action around mitigating and proactively managing risks
Business Management-Portfolio Management: Ability to select, prioritize and control the organization programmes and projects, in line with its strategic objectives and capacity; ability to balance the implementation of change initiatives and the maintenance of business-as-usual, while optimizing return on investment
 

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Advanced University degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Development, Economics, Public Administration, Environmental and Natural Sciences, Environmental Management and Policy, or related field is required. Or 
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above-mentioned fields of study, in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Professional Certification in programme or project management, or impact measurement (e.g., PRINCE-2, MSP etc.) is a distinct advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years (with Master’s degree) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s degree) of working experience at the national or international level in providing policy and/or programme management advisory services in the area of natural resources management, environmental policy, climate change and/or resilience/disaster risk reduction.
• Hands on experience in design, management, monitoring and evaluation of development projects, particularly vertical funds (GCF, GEF, etc.) is required.
• Managerial experience in a supervisory role and people management for at least 2 years is a requirement.
• Experience in results-based planning and monitoring is an asset. 
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of UNDP programme and project management policies, systems and procedures is a distinct advantage.
• Experience in donor relations and resource mobilization, preferably in the environment, climate change, resilience sector, is highly desired.
• Excellent knowledge of ERP platforms (such as Oracle) is desirable.

Language:

• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.
• Knowledge of another UN language is desirable.

Note: Please upload copies of your academic qualifications, Professional Certificates and 3 latest Performance Evaluations (if applicable)

Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.

Disclaimer

Important information for US Permanent Residents (‘Green Card’ holders)

Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment. 

UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.

Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Non-discrimination

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.  

UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

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