UNDP Jobs - 3634- DDR Project Coordinator (East)

DDR Project Coordinator (East)

Location :

Kassala, SUDAN

Type of Contract :

ALD International

Starting Date :

Application Deadline :

03-Feb-08 (Midnight New York, USA)

Post Level :

ALD-3

Duration of Initial Contract :

1 Year

Languages Required :

English

Expected Duration of Assignment :

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. 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.

Background

Shortly after the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) the Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement (ESPA) was reached between the Eastern Front and the Government of National Unity (GONU) in October 2006. The ESPA importantly addresses the poor development situation in this long-marginalized region, increases regional representation in federal processes, and redefines security arrangements.

As part of the implementation of the ESPA, Eastern Front (EF) ex-combatants not integrated into Sudan Armed Forces (SAF and SAF-aligned Other Armed Groups (OAGs) need to be rapidly disarmed, demobilized and reintegrated back into their communities. Related security issues at the community level, including problems facing receiving communities such as the prevalence of landmines must also be addressed. These interventions will help to consolidate peace by bridging the gap between the signing of the peace agreement and full implementation of the ESPA.

The first phase of DDR and partial reinsertion support to the Eastern Front force has been initiated through a separate UNDP project in support of the Northern Sudan DDR Commission (NSDDRC). A total of 1700 EF ex-combatants have been demobilized and provided with reinsertion support under Phase I. The UNDP CO has also carried out rehabilitation activities in Red Sea State, undertaken reintegration opportunities mapping in all three states and put MIS systems in place for registration.

This 12-month project will complete the reinsertion process, provide reintegration support to the demobilized ex-combatants, while responding to urgent community security enhancement needs, including mine action interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities

Specifically, DDR Project Coordinator (East) shall report to the UNDP Programme Manager/ Deputy of the Integrated UN DDR Unit and shall discharge the following duties.

Assist the UNDP Programme Manager in the overall management of the DDR project in the East in all its components, and the development of periodic work plans for the Unit;
Be responsible for the overall day to day management and supervision of staff and field operations, as per the established policies and work plans;
Be responsible for developing an “Reintegration Plan” for East and monitoring its implementation through Implementation Partners;
Support the UNDP Programme Manager in the identification and development of synergies and partnerships with other actors (national and international) at the strategic, technical and operational levels;
Provide technical advise and support to the National DDR Commissions and Programme as necessary, and assist them in the development of their periodic work plans;
Organise and lead discussions and negotiations with armed groups, and other local actors to create conditions for participation in the DDR project;
Develop and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive socioeconomic reintegration framework for demobilized members of armed groups, taking advantage of existing or planned recovery and reconstruction plans;
Develop and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive national capacity development support strategy focusing on weapons control, management, stockpiling and destruction;
Provide overall coordination and financial responsibility for the programming and implementation of UNDP funds for disarmament, arms control, community security and reintegration;
Establish guidelines and reporting standards for monitoring and evaluation of demobilization, disarmament, arms control, community security and reintegration activities;
Support the Programme Manager in all other areas necessary for the success of demobilization, disarmament, arms control, and community security.

Competencies

Vision: An in-depth understanding of the Programme’s strategic direction and ability to transform it into a results-oriented work programme.
Professionalism: Proven expertise in area of DDR; in-depth understanding of and an ability to evaluate international political situations in that area; experience in bilateral and multilateral negotiations;
Leadership: Proven ability to provide effective leadership and transfer advice and knowledge staff at all levels and from different national and cultural backgrounds;
Managing Performance: Proven effective supervisory skills; ability to mentor staff and provide guidance and support;
Planning and Organizing: Proven ability to establish priorities and to plan, organize, coordinate and monitor own work plan and provide advice and guidance to others; in-depth understanding of division's strategic direction; resourcefulness, sound judgment and decision-making skills.
Judgment/Decision-making: Demonstrated sound judgment in resolving issues/problems; ability to proactively seek and recommend sound policy initiatives;
Creativity: Ability to actively seek to improve programmes/services, offer new and different options to solve problems/meet client needs;
Communications: Excellent and effective communication (verbal and written) skills, including ability to prepare reports and conduct presentations by clearly formulating positions on issues, articulating options concisely conveying maximum necessary information, making and defending recommendations; diplomacy and tact; ability to convey difficult issues and positions to senior officials;
Teamwork: Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Negotiations Skills: Effective negotiating skills and ability to work with others to reach mutually benefiting and lasting understandings.

Required Skills and Experience

Advanced degree in social sciences, management, economics, international development or other relevant fields.
A minimum of 5 years of work experience is required, including prior DDR experience essential.
Previous experience in management within DDR or Rule of Law will be an asset.
Knowledge of Resource Mobilization with the UN and other international agencies will be highly desirable.
Knowledge of the political and economic situation in Sudan is highly desirable
Preference will be given to candidates with a wide experience in UN field operations.
Fluency in English is required. Working knowledge of other UN languages is desirable.