Programme Analyst- Private Sector and Partnership
Support initiatives to strengthen SMEs capacity and productivity.
Overview
Support initiatives to strengthen SMEs capacity and productivity.
You have:
- At least 03 years of professional experience at the national and/or international level in entrepreneurship, the private sector, and Private and Public Partnership, or other relevant programs.
- Experience working with the UN or another international development organization would be an asset.
- Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation and reporting skills.
- Accuracy and professionalism in the production and editing of documents.
- Excellent interpersonal skills; cultural and social sensitivity; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; knowledge of communication for development tools and approaches.
- Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
- Strong general computer skills, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management and office automation equipment.
- Self-motivation, ability to work with minimal supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines.
Contract
This is a UNV contract. More about UNV contracts.
The UN Volunteer (UNV) will support initiatives aimed at strengthening the capacity and productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including enhancing project pipelines and coordination with other development partners, especially JICA. The UNV will join our team in project development and financing, providing field-level technical assistance, capacity building, and coordination with relevant institutions. This role will support SMEs in adopting best practices and linking productivity improvements to enhanced access to finance and investment opportunities, aligned with climate national targets included in National determined Contributions, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Under the direct supervision of Economics Specialist the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:
SME Capacity Strengthening and Project Pipeline Support 60% • Assist in the development and monitoring of project pipelines related to SME capacity building and productivity improvement. • Conduct research and analysis to link SME performance improvements with investment readi-ness and access to finance. • Build, own, and operate high-quality financing mechanisms to support municipalities, decentral-ized entities, and SMEs at the local level. • Align investment opportunities to climate national goals, Nationally determined contributions (NDCs), Biodiversity strategy and action plan (NBSAP) and the Plan for Circular Transition. • Produce analyses from those mechanisms to optimize returns, financial viability, support deci-sion making in the development team, and facilitate financing. • Other duties as assigned.
Stakeholder Coordination and Field-Level Support 30% • Facilitate coordination with government institutions, financial partners, JICA, and other stake-holders. • Support the implementation of SME initiatives at the field level, including training sessions, workshops, and field visits. • Collaborate with partner projects, such as JICA’s KAIZEN, to enhance collaboration and devel-opment by playing a complementary role. • Prepare background notes, reports, and knowledge products on SME development and produc-tivity enhancement.
Knowledge Management and Communication 10% • Capture and disseminate lessons learned and success stories to UNDP, JICA, and relevant stake-holders. • Provide basic inputs in the development and application of investment management processes and tools to assist team members, facilitate knowledge transfer, and support the training and capacity development of local stakeholders in both the public and private sectors. • Support the development of communication materials highlighting the link between productivity improvements and investment opportunities. • Draft analytical notes and impact reports on private sector engagement.
Accountability ☒ Adaptability and Flexibility ☒ Building Trust ☒ Client Orientation ☒ Commitment and Motivation ☒ Commitment to Continuous Learning ☒ Communication ☒ Creativity ☒ Empowering Others ☒ Ethics and Values ☒ Integrity ☒ Knowledge Sharing ☒ Leadership ☒ Managing Performance ☒ Planning and Organizing ☒ Professionalism ☒ Respect for Diversity ☒ Self-Management ☒ Technological Awareness ☒ Vision ☒ Working in Teams
At least 03 years of professional experience at the national and/or international level in en-trepreneurship, the private sector, and Private and Public Partnership, or other relevant programs. Experience working with the UN or another international development organiza-tion would be an asset; • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation and reporting skills; • Accuracy and professionalism in the production and editing of documents; • Excellent interpersonal skills; cultural and social sensitivity; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, reli-gious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; knowledge of communi-cation for development tools and approaches; • Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national staff; • Strong general computer skills, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Ex-cel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; Familiarity with database management; and office au-tomation equipment; • Self-motivation, ability to work with minimal supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines; • Good security awareness; • Have an affinity or interest in private sector development and PPP partnerships
Living conditions in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire Security Abidjan is a dynamic metropolis where the security situation is generally stable, but there is a risk of urban crime (theft, scams, assaults), especially in certain neighbourhoods. International residents are recommended to take safety precautions such as avoiding risky areas, transport-ing by secure taxi, and being vigilant against scams. The national security situation can change and requires regular follow-up to the recommendations of the United Nations and local authorities. Access and air transport Abidjan is well served by international flights via Félix-Houphouët-Boigny airport, which is a regional hub. Several international airlines operate regular flights to Europe, Africa and other continents. In the interior of the country, the road network is relatively developed, although some roads may be in poor condition or require increased vigilance when driving. Climate The climate in Côte d'Ivoire is tropical, characterized by a rainy season (from April to October) with abundant rainfall and a dry season (November to March) marked by the harmattan, a dry wind coming from the Sahara. Temperatures typically range between 25°C and 35°C with high humidity, which may require adaptation for those unaccustomed to tropical climates. Cultural Awareness Côte d'Ivoire is a culturally rich and diverse country, with more than 60 ethnic groups. Ivorian society is tolerant but attached to certain traditional values. A respectful dress code is recom-mended, especially during business or official interactions. Alcohol consumption is accepted, but a responsible attitude is expected. Cost of living The cost of living in Abidjan is relatively high compared to other cities in the sub-region. Hous-ing, imported food, and quality health services come at a significant cost, although more af-fordable alternatives exist for those who adapt to local options. Accommodation Options Expats often prefer secure residential areas such as Cocody, Marcory, Zone 4, and Riviera. Rents can be high, especially for furnished and secure housing. It is recommended to be well informed before signing a lease. Availability of food, water and electricity Abidjan offers a wide variety of local and imported food products, with many supermarkets and traditional markets. Running water is usually available, but it is advisable to consume filtered or bottled water. Electricity and water cuts may occur, although privileged residential areas are less affected. Medical Facilities The quality of medical infrastructure varies. There are private clinics that offer a good level of care, but the costs can be high. Access to specialized and emergency care may be limited, and it is highly recommended to have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if nec-essary. Banking activity Banking services are well developed, with local and international institutions present in Abid-jan. Card transactions are possible in many places, although cash is still common for some transactions. Access to ATMs is widespread, but it is advisable to be vigilant when withdraw-ing. Communication infrastructure Côte d'Ivoire has a good telecommunications network with easy access to high-speed internet and mobile telephony. Several carriers offer competitive plans, although network stability may vary by region.
Potential interview questions
| Describe a time when you successfully coordinated with various stakeholders. | This question assesses your ability to engage and communicate with different partners effectively. | Highlight specific examples of successful coordination efforts and their outcomes. |
| How do you ensure inclusivity in your work with community members and organizations? | This question evaluates your interpersonal skills and sensitivity to cultural diversity. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you provide an example of a project where you improved access to finance for SMEs? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What methods do you use to monitor project pipelines and capacity-building activities? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Explain how you adapt to challenging work environments while maintaining productivity. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Discuss a significant report or analysis you produced and its impact. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you approach training and capacity building for diverse groups? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe your experience with private sector development and public-private partnerships. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |