Project Specialist [Open to Tier 0, 1 & 2 applicants]

Overview

The Project Specialist will support the coordination, management, monitoring, and delivery of the Italy–Africa Digital Development Flagship Programme across participating countries. The role focuses on ensuring effective implementation, alignment with donor requirements, and stakeholder coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-level strategic guidance and coordination across all programme components and participating countries.
• Maintain effective coordination, communication, and strategic engagement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).
• Lead the review and quality assurance of project documents and deliverables.
• Ensure effective coordination with relevant stakeholders.
• Oversee and support the adaptation and refinement of project proposals in response to evolving donor requirements.
• Serve as interface with UNDP Country Offices, Italian private sector entities, associations, and relevant organizations, as well as national counterparts.
• Provide technical and operational guidance with UNDP Country Offices to ensure effective and timely implementation of programme activities.
• Identify emerging risks and provide strategic advice to senior management.
• Oversee the preparation of high-quality programme reports, briefs, and updates.
• Capture and systematize lessons learned and best practices across countries.
• Participate in meetings, technical discussions, and missions as required.

Required Experience

Minimum of 7 years (with master’s degree) or 9 years (with bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible experience in programme and project management, preferably in international development, climate, energy, or digital development contexts. Experience in managing multi-country programmes and working with international organizations and/or development partners. Proven experience in programme and project management, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Experience in coordination and stakeholder engagement including with government counterparts and international partners. Experience working with donor-funded programmes and ensuring compliance with donor requirements. Experience in managing multiple priorities and deliver results under tight timelines.

Qualifications

Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in International Development, Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, Environmental Studies, or a related field is required. Or A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above-mentioned fields, in combination with an additional two (2) years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Other Details