Programme Management Specialist at UNCDF: A Remote Opportunity for Global Impact

Overview of the Role

The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is seeking a Programme Management Specialist at the IPSA-10 grade for a home-based position. This is a one-year contract with the possibility of extension, offering a unique chance to contribute to sustainable development from anywhere in the world.

• Location: Home-Based
• Agency: United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF)
• Grade: IPSA-10
• Contract Duration: 1 Year (with possibility of extension)
• Application Deadline: 29 August 2025, 05:59 AM (UTC)

About UNCDF

UNCDF is an autonomous UN organization dedicated to supporting Least Developed Countries (LDCs) by deploying innovative financial instruments to mobilize capital for sustainable development. Its mission aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs (2022–2031).

Operating through regional hubs in Dakar, Nairobi, and Bangkok, UNCDF uses grants, loans, and guarantees to attract finance and target vulnerable communities. Key initiatives include:

• DFS4Res (Digital Finance Solutions for Resilience): Scaling digital financial services in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific since 2021.
• SME Trade Finance Facility (STFF): An EU-funded initiative addressing SME trade finance gaps in ACP countries, launched in 2024.
• FinWise Programme: Focused on financing MSMEs in East and Southern Africa, with over USD 34 million raised.

Key Responsibilities

The Programme Management Specialist will lead coordination, operations, financial oversight, and strategic planning for DFS4Res, STFF, and FinWise programmes, reporting to the Programme Manager and Regional Digital Manager.

Programme Implementation & Oversight

• Support design, planning, and implementation of programme strategies in line with UNCDF and UNDP regulations.
• Draft project documents and donor agreements, ensuring compliance and approvals.
• Prepare work plans, assess resource requirements, and align indicators with goals.
• Facilitate internal coordination, organize meetings, and ensure follow-up on decisions.
• Oversee reporting strategies and draft donor reports.

Operational Support

• Guide procurement and recruitment processes, including TOR development and contract issuance.
• Provide quality assurance on agreements and due diligence.
• Maintain liaison with support units.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Track programme performance and consolidate data for strategic decisions.
• Support M&E framework development with clear indicators and targets.
• Coordinate impact assessments and evaluations, ensuring documentation.
• Lead data collection into systems like Quantum and EU OPSYS.

Financial & Resource Management

• Oversee budgets and ensure resource alignment with delivery goals.
• Support audit processes and financial compliance.
• Monitor financial delivery and manage recruitment.

Knowledge Management & Capacity Building

• Identify capacity needs and facilitate knowledge-sharing through workshops.
• Contribute to knowledge products and support communities of practice.
• Promote documentation of lessons learned and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Political or Social Sciences. A Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of experience is acceptable.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) in programme/project management or coordination.
  • Must have experience working in Africa.
  • Prior experience with UNCDF or another UN agency is essential.
  • Knowledge of Oracle and Salesforce-based systems (e.g., Quantum) is desirable.
  • Experience in financial management, results-based reporting, and donor coordination is valued.
• Languages: Fluency in both English and French is required.

Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking, systems thinking, and results-oriented project management.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• A CV or UNDP P11 form with qualifications and contact details for three references.
• A cover letter (max 1 page) explaining suitability for the role.

Apply through the official portal: APPLY NOW

Equal Opportunity and Disclaimer

UNCDF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, with a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination. No application fees are charged at any stage. For more information, visit www.undp.org/scam-alert.

This opportunity is shared by Global South Opportunities but is not the hiring organization. Direct inquiries to UNCDF, and do not send applications to GSO.