GOVERNANCE ADVISOR (GOVERNANCE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP)

The Development Assistance Group (DAG) of donors was established to coordinate donor support to the preparation, monitoring and evaluation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) process and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Governance Technical Working Group (GTWG), as one of the technical working groups of the DAG, is seeking a governance advisor, to be housed in UNDP to provide advisory and support services to the Human Rights and Democracy (HRD), Civil Society (CS) and Conflict (C) Sub-Groups, as well as to the GTWG.

Duties and Responsibilities

Summary of Key Functions: Under the guidance and direct supervision of UNDP Governance Team Leader and the Chair of the GTWG, the Governance Advisor is responsible for supporting the GTWG for the effective functioning of the Technical Working Group and its subgroups. This includes the provision of technical support in dialogue with Government on strategic policy issues, as well as monitoring and harmonization of programmes within the Governance sector in Ethiopia; He/ she will support the work of the GTWG in promoting the governance agenda in Ethiopia as articulated in the Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP)—the country’s PRSP—and in the effective implementation of the DAG Ethiopia Governance Strategy. The Advisor is expected to provide quality policy advisory services to the GTWG as required and contribute to knowledge building and sharing. Ensures provision of top quality policy advice services to the GTWG, focusing on achievement of the following results: Attend all Human Rights and Democracy, Civil Society and Conflict Sub-Group monthly and ad hoc meetings and when requested DAG and EPG meetings, and assist the Chairs to draft and finalize meeting minutes, annual work plans and reports; Maintain up to date awareness and analysis of trends and developments in the democracy, human rights, civil society and conflict sectors and provide regular reports and analysis on relevant issues; Draft scopes of work and terms of reference for studies, assessments, consultancies etc. commissioned by the Groups; Carry out and report on specific investigations, assessments and analytical exercises as directed by the Groups; When appropriate and required, assist the Groups to develop proposals for complementary joint diplomatic and programmatic strategies to achieve specific objectives; Assist the Group Chairs to draft briefing and action memos and talking points for the DAG and the EPG; Assist the Groups to maintain updated maps of donor activities; Assist the Groups to consider how well current and planned donor programs are harmonized and how existing activities could be re-oriented or new activities could be designed to fill gaps, improve complementarity and increase impact; Assist the Groups to consider and put in place effective mechanisms to monitor progress toward the objectives of their annual work plans; Document best practices and lessons learned from Group activities, member agency programs or more generally in the sectors; As directed, from time to time review the objectives, activities, efficiency and effectiveness of the Groups and make recommendations for improvements; As requested, assist the design of the objectives, parameters and implementation and monitoring modalities of donor pooled funds; Perform other duties as required consistent with these responsibilities. Facilitation to knowledge building and management, focusing on achievement of the following results: Systematic recording of best practice and lessons learnt in the areas assigned; Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice; Coordination of internal and external reviews and evaluations; Organization and facilitation of training events on governance.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies: Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards; Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the DAG; Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability; Treats all people fairly without favoritism. Functional Competencies: Knowledge Management and Learning Promotes a knowledge sharing and learning culture; In-depth knowledge on governance and development issues; Ability to advocate and provide policy advice; Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more Practice Areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills. Development and Operational Effectiveness Ability to apply and work within a system of strategic planning, results-based management and reporting; Ability to analyze development, institutional and governance issues and present concise, practical and accessible proposals and recommendations; Ability to provide professional advise on the formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of development programmes and projects; Strong IT skills; Ability to analyze and advise on ways to enhance donor coordination arrangements. Management and Leadership Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to feedback; Understands and applies appropriate team roles effectively and shows conflict resolution skills; Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude; Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills; Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors; Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure; Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities.

Required Skills and Experience

Education: Master’s degree or equivalent) preferably in law, political science, international relations or other related disciplines. Experience: At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience at the international level in political affairs, democracy, good governance, human rights, civil society and conflict mitigation, prevention and reduction; At least three years of experience working with, or in donor coordination groups; Significant experience in Africa is desirable; Experience in the use of computers and office software packages, experience in handling of web based aid management platforms and systems. Language requirements: Fluency in English; Knowledge of a second UN official language is desirable.

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UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.