The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is inviting applications for the position of Programme Management Support Specialist, IPSA-11 , a home-based role open to Tier 0, Tier 1 and Tier 2 applicants .
Job Summary
- Employer: UNCDF
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-09-15
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic, specialized and high-level organization-wide programme and project management advisory support.
- Provide technical advice and strategic guidance on programme/project design, planning, budgeting, governance and monitoring frameworks.
- Lead the development and continuous improvement of corporate systems and approaches for results-based management, programme quality assurance and compliance.
- Advise senior managers and project teams on corporate programme management standards and quality assurance requirements.
- Analyse organization-wide and portfolio-level performance evidence and advise management on strategic programming priorities and corrective actions.
- Leading performance monitoring, reviews and reporting for projects and programmes.
- Providing portfolio-level analysis through aggregate reports, corporate and donor reporting and management dashboards.
- Identifying systemic performance issues and recommending corrective and remedial actions.
- Maintaining project management reporting systems, including ERP and related tools.
- Developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures for programme management.
- Provide strategic coordination and specialised programme management advice for corporate planning, reporting, audit, evaluation and risk management.
- Advise on results-oriented reports, briefing documents and publications.
- Contribute to implementation and monitoring of the Integrated Results and Resources Framework (IRRF) and Integrated Work Plan (IWP).
- Support assurance/audit plans and implementation of audit recommendations.
- Support regional and country teams in developing implementation and governance arrangements for large, complex or multi-country programmes and projects.
- Provide demand-based capacity development support to regional and country-level staff.
- Lead the review and development of corporate programme and project management guidance, standards and procedures.
- Lead knowledge and capacity building, knowledge sharing and advocacy relevant to the assigned thematic area.
Requirements
- An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, International Affairs/Development, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field is required.
- A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the relevant areas, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, may be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.
- Candidates must have: – At least 7 years of relevant professional experience with a Master’s degree , or 9 years with a Bachelor’s degree .
- Experience in results-based management, programme and project design, strategic planning and programme management.
- Experience in quality assurance, oversight and compliance within the UN or comparable international organizations.
- Proven experience across the full project management cycle, including managing for results.
- Working experience with Oracle Cloud ERP or comparable enterprise resource planning systems .
- Experience applying programme and project management policies, procedures and tools in multilateral organizations.
- Experience in IT, including business intelligence and data visualization tools.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com
Job Code: 36697
About the Company
UNCDF, the United Nations Capital Development Fund, delivers tailored financing solutions to support Zimbabwe’s transition to a resilient, low‑carbon economy. In Harare and across the country, it partners with local banks, micro‑finance institutions and renewable‑energy developers to mobilise over $8 million for distributed solar projects. The fund’s financial instruments—such as concessional loans, guarantees and equity—enable small‑to‑medium enterprises to scale clean‑energy solutions that power homes, schools and businesses. By fostering inclusive growth, UNCDF helps Zimbabwe meet its SDG targets while creating jobs and reducing energy poverty.
Financing Sustainable Development
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Programme Management Support Specialist (IPSA-11) role in Zimbabwe?
A bachelor's degree in project management, business administration, development studies, or a related field is usually expected, with many employers preferring a master's degree. Certifications such as PRINCE2, PMP, or equivalent project management credentials are advantageous and often sought after by NGOs and UN agencies operating in Zimbabwe.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of this position?
The role involves supporting the planning, monitoring, and reporting of programme activities, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with UNCDF procedures. Daily tasks include preparing progress reports, tracking budgets, organizing meetings, and maintaining documentation for audits and evaluations.
How does the local work culture in Zimbabwe influence expectations for this role?
In Zimbabwe, workplace culture values punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and strong interpersonal communication, especially when engaging with government partners and community groups. Demonstrating adaptability to resource constraints and a proactive approach to problem‑solving is highly regarded.
What realistic career progression or growth paths can one expect after this role?
Successful performance can lead to senior programme officer or programme manager positions within UNCDF or other international organisations. Gaining experience in specific sectors such as finance, livelihoods, or climate resilience often opens doors to specialised advisory or technical leadership roles.
What typical benefits are offered for contract positions like this in Zimbabwe?
Benefits generally include annual leave, medical aid coverage, and pension or provident fund contributions in line with UN standards. Additional allowances may be provided for housing, transport, or hardship depending on the duty station and contract terms.
How should a job seeker apply, and what do employers in Zimbabwe look for in candidates?
Applications are submitted online through the UNCDF careers portal, requiring a detailed CV, cover letter, and copies of relevant qualifications. Employers prioritize proven project coordination experience, strong analytical skills, familiarity with Zimbabwe’s development context, and the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams.
