Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) - P5

Introduction

The ILO, in collaboration with UNDP, FAO and WFP, is currently implementing the Supporting Resilient Livelihoods and Food Security in Yemen Joint Programme (ERRY II). The joint programme, financed by the EU, is implemented in six vulnerable governorates: Hajjah, Hodeidah, Lahj, Abyan, Taiz and Sana’a. The overall objective of the Programme is to contribute to reduced vulnerability and strengthened resilience of crisis-affected communities in Yemen through the creation of sustainable livelihoods and improving access to basic services.

The CTA will be responsible for effective implementation of the aforementioned programme and achievement of the planned results. S/he will also facilitate and promote coordination and collaboration with other actors in the sector, both at national and international levels.

REPORTING LINES:

The incumbent will report directly to the Deputy Regional Director of the ILO Regional Office for the Arab States (ROAS) for operational and administrative issues and will receive technical guidance and support from the Resilience and Crisis Response Specialist,.  S/he will coordinate technical guidance and advice from ROAS DWT technical specialists in close consultation and coordination with the Regional Programme Unit and the Regional Administrative and Finance department. The project manager will maintain a fluid exchange of information, coordinate, and link with the UNDP and other ERRY Participating UN Organizations (PUNOs). The CTA will also work in close consultation with the National Project Officers, the ILO National Coordinator, the Joint Coordination Unit (JCU), the EU, , and other international and national partners to successfully implement all of the programmes’ activities.

Description of Duties

1. Programme management:
a. Plan the activities of the programmes and monitor progress in achieving results at the output, outcome and impact levels and address in a timely manner obstacles and challenges identified in the implementation of the programmes;
b. Ensure and develop an effective monitoring and evaluation system for regular reporting to national stakeholders PUNOS d donors and other stakeholders that takes into account monitoring of risks in a constantly evolving fragile environment;
c. Undertake exploratory and monitoring missions in all relevant areas of Yemen, after they are cleared by UNDSS and supervisor;
d. Ensure timely sequencing, cohesion and coordination between different activities of the programs to maximize efficiency;
e. Continuously review the programmes status and provide strategic and policy advice to the relevant Steering Committees on required follow up and/or alternatives for corrective action;
f. Ensure gender sensitive activities are integrated in the programmes plan and implementation strategy;
g. Responsible for the effective management of funds/budget assigned to the project

2. Policy advice – in close coordination with relevant ILO Specialists, provide technical policy advice and prepare strategic policy papers, for technical support to government and social partners on Skills Development and Employability (including apprenticeship), Enterprise development and access to finance, as well as on Employment Intensive Investment Programmes.

3. Representation, Networking and Partnership- Represent the Organization at inter-agency (United Nations Country Team(s)) and donor meetings, provide advice on policies and procedures and present reports, policy documents and project proposals;

4. Foster contacts and relations with governments, ministries, the employers' and workers' organizations, non-governmental organizations, target groups and donors, and promote opportunities for collaboration towards planning and implementation of project activities.

5. Resource mobilisation - Represent the organization in national inter-agency coordination committees and in donor meetings for resource mobilization:
a. Develop and draft  at least concept notes and project proposals in consultation with the technical specialists in ROAS, focusing on ILO mandate and technical expertise in conflict and crisis context
b. Promote and maintain close relations with donor agencies and other international agencies.
c. Mobilize resources in support of the ILO's objectives and development cooperation activities.
d. Negotiate conditions and terms; justify financing inputs and follow up until agreement is reached.
e. Initiate resource mobilization approaches for the acceptance, funding and implementation of projects and programmes;

6. Undertake other duties as requested by supervisor.

Required qualifications

Education

Advanced university degree with two years relevant experience in economics, management, social sciences, international studies, or a related field

Experience

At least ten  years experience in the management of technical cooperation activities of which at least seven years  at international level.

This includes field experience in a leadership role for the implementation of projects, preferably in the fields of working in crisis settings. Proven management experience, preferably with the ILO or a UN agency, with sound knowledge and experience in all aspects of project cycle, i.e. design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Proven experience in partnership building and networking and in effective fundraising, resource mobilization and donor relations

Professional experience in the region would be an advantage.

Languages

Excellent command of English. Knowledge of Arabic is an asset.

Competencies

• Proven ability to take ownership of a wide range of responsibilities, to act with integrity and transparency by maintaining social, ethical and organisational norms, and to meet all commitments within the prescribed time, cost and quality standards.
• Ability to develop clear strategic goals consistent with the Partnership’s objectives, and to design and synthesise strategies for programme development.
• Ability to advocate and provide impactful policy advice.
• Excellent leadership skills, ability to work effectively in a team and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to promote a knowledge-sharing and learning culture, and to focus and guide others to meet objectives at individual and group level.
• Ability to formulate new concepts and methodologies, and to synthesise research and reach empirically based conclusions on related subjects by understanding both the qualitative and quantitative approaches in social science research
• Should be open to and able to make changes to accommodate culture and gender differences in order to interact effectively with individuals;
• Proven capacity to initiate and implement technical co-operation programmes and activities with ILO constituents and NGOs, including negotiation skills with governments, social partners and to mobilise the support of international donor agencies and provide quality services
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write accurate reports and to build networks to obtain cooperation with partners.
• Excellent computer/information application skills, including word processing, excel, powerpoint, etc.
• Ability to maintain effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or environment, and to adjust effectively to work within new work structures, processes, requirements or cultures.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment and to demonstrate gender-sensitive and non-discriminatory behaviour and attitudes.
• Drive to seek or encourage others to seek opportunities for different and innovative approaches to organisation problems and opportunities for improvement.
• Willingness and ability to work in a fragile context.