Research and Coordination Associate

Job Title: Research and Coordination Associate

Job Identification:
- Job Schedule: Full-time
- Agency: UNDP
- Practice Area: Economics
- Bureau: Regional Bureau for Arab States

Education & Work Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree: 4 years of experience
- OR High School Certificate: 7 years of experience

Required Languages:
- Fluency in Arabic and English, both oral and written

Desired Languages:
- French is an asset

Vacancy Timeline:
- 2 Weeks

Mobility Required:
- No mobility required

Background:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP. We value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate. We foster inclusion to ensure all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. We are committed to increasing the representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Project Overview:

The Knowledge Project is a joint initiative between UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Arab States and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), established in 2008. The project aims to produce high-quality knowledge products and promote knowledge sharing and dialogue. The project's current phase includes activities such as revising the Global Knowledge Index, revamping the knowledge4all portal, producing the Future of Knowledge Foresight Report series, and organizing Knowtalks. Additionally, the project has launched a Regional Skills Initiative targeting 5,500 Arab learners from eight Arab countries to equip them with employability and digital skills, foundational and technical skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Programme Coordination:
- Ensure seamless coordination and execution of events for knowledge exchange and capacity-building.
- Prepare technical content and choreography for consultations and workshops.
- Strengthen and build relationships with stakeholders to ensure smooth project implementation.
- Set up robust tracking and monitoring tools for effective project management.
- Support the review and monitoring of initiative activities, including the onboarding and engagement of learners.

Research and Knowledge Management:
- Conduct desk research on the skills landscape in the region.
- Map key stakeholders, existing skills initiatives, and strategies in the Arab region.
- Prepare knowledge products such as background notes, surveys, skills matrix, briefs, fact sheets, reports, and presentations.
- Collect and analyze data from national and international sources related to employment, skills, and training.

Reporting and Partnerships:
- Support the preparation of periodic narrative and financial reports.
- Assist in the establishment and fostering of partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate and timely reporting on project progress and achievements.

Communication and Advocacy:
- Develop communication materials, including project presentations, scripts, and invitation letters.
- Support advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the project’s objectives and achievements.
- Engage with stakeholders at various levels to garner support and recognition for the initiative.
- Promote public engagement and awareness of the project through various communication channels.

Institutional Arrangement:

The Research and Coordination Associate will work under the direct supervision of the Project and Research Analyst and the overall supervision of the Chief Technical Adviser/Project Manager. The incumbent will maintain effective working relationships with various stakeholders, donors, and colleagues at the Hub and country offices.

Competencies:

Core:
- Achieve Results: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline
- Think Innovatively: Open to creative ideas, pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements
- Learn Continuously: Open-minded, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback
- Adapt with Agility: Adapts to change, handles ambiguity, is flexible
- Act with Determination: Shows drive and motivation, delivers calmly under pressure
- Engage and Partner: Demonstrates understanding towards others, forms positive relationships
- Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Appreciates/respects differences, confronts discrimination

Cross-Functional & Technical:
- Knowledge generation
- Digital learning and development
- Relationship management
- Negotiation and influence
- Inclusive growth, future of work, automation, and technology
- Job promotion and decent work

Required Skills and Experience:
- Education:
- Secondary education or Bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, education, social sciences, or related field.
- Experience:
- 7 years (with secondary education) or 4 years (with Bachelor’s degree) of relevant experience in economic research, upskilling and reskilling initiatives, or in employment/entrepreneurship programs.
- Skills:
- Excellent computer literacy (MS Office, Windows, Internet).
- Excellent communication, report writing, and analytical skills.

Desired Skills:
- Experience working in the Arab States region.
- Knowledge of massive open online courses and/or education.
- Experience in a similar position in UN agencies.

Required Language(s):
- Fluency in Arabic and English, both oral and written.

Desired Language(s):
- French is an asset.

Nationalities:
- UAE nationals or residents with a valid work permit.
- Non-residents of the UAE (costs related to visa/residency will be borne by the selected candidate).

Professional Certificates:
- Not applicable.