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.
UNDP Lao PDR:
Guided by the global UNDP Strategic Plan (2022 – 2025) and UNDP Country Programme 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 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 four broad Priority Pillars – (1) inclusive growth and reduced inequalities, (2) UXO clearance and risk education, (3) natural resources, climate change and disaster risk reduction, as well as (4) effective, responsive, and accountable governance.
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 new UNDP country programme is aligned with the 9th NSEDP and is anchored in UNDP’s long-term partnership with the Government of more than three decades. The new programme builds on the achievements of the previous CPD that saw the incorporation of the SDGs into the national planning architecture. It will aim 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.
UNDP Inclusive Growth Unit (IGU)
The Inclusive Growth Unit at UNDP Lao PDR focuses on reducing poverty, inequality and promoting social inclusion and sustainable financing for equitable solutions. The focus is on sustainable, inclusive and green jobs creation, integrity-based business development, private sector involvement in Sustainable Development Goals achievement, transparent, efficient and inclusive service provision, and equal and equitable access to economic opportunities. It also aims to strengthen policies and institutions that address barriers for the inclusion of vulnerable groups in the labor market, for a conducive business environment and for improved living standards. Additionally, the Unit aims to address the socioeconomic dimensions of recovery through policy and technical support, as well as promoting greater participation by communities and marginalized groups, while promoting innovation and best practices for green growth. UNDP is also focusing on supporting the Government to return to pre-COVID-19 levels of growth and regain momentum in consolidating economic transformation.
This is rooted in a theory of change stipulating that if there is improved macro-fiscal management, evidence-based and territorial development planning and prioritization of public investments in social and green sectors, the country will shift to a more inclusive and more environmentally responsible, climate-resilient development pathway. Resilient and gender-responsive social protection systems will protect people from falling back into poverty and ensure development progress, even if disasters and shocks hit. This translates into the CPD outcome: “by 2026, people, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized, will benefit from more inclusive, resilient, transformative, and sustainable socioeconomic and demographic opportunities to reduce poverty and inequalities”. It is also aligned with the 9th National Socioeconomic Development Plan (NSEDP, 2021 -2025), Vision 2030 and the 10-year Socio-Economic Development Strategy (2016-2025), which are central to the country’s economic restructuring and place great emphasis on economic diversification, innovation, skills and knowledge, green economy and resilience. These strategic plans also prioritize action on renewable natural resources, environmental pollution and waste management, along with environmental fiscal instruments and nature-based tourism that can drive economic growth and help create green jobs.
DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES
The Programme Associate in the Inclusive Growth Unit plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient operations with a strong focus on financial management. Reporting to the Team Leader, this position emphasizes financial and budgeting skills essential for implementing the Country Programme Action Plan and supporting resource mobilization efforts.
Key responsibilities include preparing, monitoring, and reporting budgets while tracking expenditures to ensure compliance with financial regulations. The Programme Associate also provides comprehensive administrative support, organizing activities, and managing documentation to facilitate smooth programme implementation.
Additionally, the Programme Associate supports capacity-building initiatives and collaborates closely with operations and project staff, particularly the Programme Analysts and Project Management Unit (PMU), to enhance programme delivery. The Programme Associate also provides comprehensive administrative support, including events management and logistical support for activities and meetings, ensuring that all aspects are well-coordinated and executed.
The Programme Associate facilitates communication and knowledge sharing among project teams, project stakeholders, and the Country Office by ensuring that information is organized and accessible for decision-making. S/he must have a solid background in financial management, project management practices, and strong IT skills.
Provide administrative and logistical support to the management of programmes/projects.
Provide administrative support to the financial management of the Programme Unit.
Support resource mobilization efforts of the Programme Unit.
Support to the communications and knowledge sharing within the Programme and CO.
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: May supervise programme support staff.
COMPETENCIES
People Management
UNDP People Management Competencies can be found in the dedicated site.
CROSS-FUNCTIONAL & TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
Business Development
Business Management
2030 Agenda: Engagement & Effectiveness
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Education:
Experience, Knowledge, and Skills:
Language Requirements:
Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.
Disclaimer:
Equal opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.
Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority
UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.
Right to select multiple candidates
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.
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