UNV LTD
Details
Mission and objectives
UNDP works in more than 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience to sustain development results. UNDP has been present in Malawi since 1964. Working closely with the Government of Malawi, civil society and the private sector, UNDP’ s work aims to contribute to economic growth, sustainable environmental management, and democratic governance and accountability in Malawi. UNDP’s Country Programme Document is closely aligned to the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MDGS III) and supports Malawi’s aim to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. UNDP ‘s programme is designed to address the interlinked issues of poverty, inequality and vulnerability to shocks and is managed within two portfolios: Responsive Institutions and Citizen Engagement which works towards strengthening effective, accountable and inclusive governance that promotes civic engagement, respect for human rights, rule of law, peace and democracy. It also works towards strengthening data generation and analysis. Resilience and Sustainable Growth which focusses on enhancing economic innovation, inclusive business, job creation, and renewable energy access. It also works towards helping Malawi adapt to climate change and build resilience to disasters.
Context
The UNDP is implementing a Private Sector Development Programme (PSDP) that aims to contribute to Government’s efforts to accelerate the country’s transition to a productive, competitive and resilient nation. The development of this programme is consistent with SDG 8 to: “Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all” and SDG 9 to: “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. The PSDP deploys a suite of instruments including the Malawi Innovation Challenge Fund (MICF), the Growth Accelerator and newly created instruments (Impact Investment Fund and Business Incubation) as part of the continuum of the entrepreneurial journey, from early to growth stage enterprises. The programme will cover the period 2020-2023 to meet milestones contributing to positioning Malawi as a productive, competitive and resilient nation. Largely, the programme will use a combination of different instruments over this period to support the private sector inclusive of Micro, Small and Medium-sized enterprises to access financial support, technical advisory services, business development services and business incubation services for increased productive capacities, innovation, business growth and acceleration, and job creation. The programme will also work with the Ministry of Trade and Industry to address some of the challenges related to the business enabling environment. Under the direct supervision of the Programme Coordinator (Inclusive/Green Business), the Programme Assistant will provide technical and administrative assistance to project management team in the implementation of project activities in accordance with UN Financial and Project Management Rules and Procedures and, in doing so, contribute to the efficient implementation of the programme. The team is looking for a dynamic, agile team member and a quick thinker that can action swiftly the given tasks.
Task description
Summary of Key Functions: Under the direct supervision of the Programme Coordinator (Inclusive/Green Business), the programme assistant will provide technical and administrative support to the PSD programme, by performing the following key functions: • Support to the implementation of activities related to UNDP private sector engagement • Support to knowledge management and monitoring and evaluation activities. The following will be the specific duties and responsibilities: Support in the day-to-day implementation of the project Ensure project documents i.e., workplans, procurement plans, minutes etc are shared with relevant units and maintained in accordance with project management principles Assist with logistical and administrative arrangements in support of experts and/or missions Ensure and maintain an accurate filing system of financial reports, payment vouchers, and other project correspondences Support with setting up meetings for the regular reporting (monthly, quarterly and annually) on the implementation of the activities related to the reporting period and prepare minutes for the same Perform duties in accordance with UN and Government policies and procedures. Support logistics and draft write-ups on spot checks, PSD interest research areas etc. Assist with logistical and administrative arrangements for project management and quality assurance meetings such as Steering Committee Meetings, Review meetings, Field Visits, Workshops, Symposiums etc. Support with logistical and administrative tasks for PSD internal and external engagements Draft meeting minutes, agendas, prepare meeting packs etc. Support with arrangements for joint monitoring visits to projects sites. Maintain a filing system for all programme documents including quarterly reports, financial reports including payment vouchers and delivery reports, and project asset inventory Support concept development and research initiatives Perform other duties and task as requested related to the implementation of the programme
Required experience
3 years of experience in private sector development or in any related developmental projects Experience and skills in project support, and implementation of technical and administrative assistance activities; Experience in program management support; Good understanding of UN/UNDP policies, procedures, programming modalities is an asset; Experience in multi-donor projects is an asset; Good organizational and communication skills;
Area(s) of expertise
Business management, Economics and finance, Development programmes
Driving license
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Languages
English, Level: Working knowledge, Required Chichewa, Level: Mother tongue, Required
Required education level
Bachelor degree or equivalent in Economics, Development Studies, or Business Administration from a reputable institution.
Competencies and values
Demonstrate commitment to UNDP’s vision, mission, values and strategic goals; Experience working under minimum supervision and tight deadlines; Experience working collaboratively in a team structure in a multicultural environment; Respect for Diversity: Understanding of the United Nations system, operations and structures.