This role focuses on leading private sector engagement and partnership development for the UNDP Rome Centre, aiming to strengthen strategic collaborations and translate programme priorities into scalable initiatives and resource mobilization opportunities.
Minimum of 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible experience in international development specifically focusing on private sector engagement, strategic partnerships, and procurement management is required. At least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in international development, private sector engagement, and strategic procurement preferably in climate change. Demonstrated experience in developing and managing partnerships with the private sector, including identifying, scoping, and structuring partnership opportunities aligned with SDGs and climate priorities and conducting due diligence and risk assessments for private partners in line with UN/UNDP standards. Demonstrated expertise in end-to-end procurement processes for high-value projects. Proven ability to act as a capacity-building focal point, designing and delivering training or workshops to private sector entities on international public procurement guidelines. Demonstrated experience in designing and coordinating multi-country activities, particularly in developing countries and emerging economies. Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement with governments, multilateral organisations, and the private sector at senior level. Familiarity with procurement processes and supply chain management in critical development sectors, such as healthcare procurement (e.g., medical supplies, pharmaceuticals) or complex infrastructure projects. Possession of recognized professional certifications in procurement and supply chain management (such as CIPS - Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply or equivalent). Experience in supporting innovative financing mechanisms, co-financing, or blended finance initiatives in partnership with private sector entities. Proven professional experience in managing consulting firms (management, strategy, or development consulting) on assignments involving policy advisory, corporate sustainability, or institutional partnership development. Demonstrated ability to coordinate multi-country or regional programmes across developing and emerging economies. Strong track record of producing high-quality policy and analytical outputs, such as policy papers, strategic briefs, and reform recommendations. Extensive experience designing and delivering capacity-building initiatives (workshops, trainings, mentorship programmes, and peer-learning exchanges) for government institutions, private sector actors, and civil society organizations. Proven competence in project design, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and donor reporting. Experience in supporting co-financing, blended finance, or impact investment initiatives with private entities.
Advanced University Degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in International Development, Public Policy, Business and Economics, Political Sciences, International Relations, Engineering (e.g. Management or Environmental Engineering) or a related field is required. Or A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above, in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.
