Organization Mission

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Somalia has been supporting the government’s efforts in effective implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP), which is aligned with the corporate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In support of development plans outlined in the NDP, UNDP in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders including government, multilateral agencies, private sector and civil society has been developing and implementing projects in its main thematic areas of Economic Growth and Employment, Democratic Governance, Rule of Law and Security, Human Development and Economics. These projects contribute towards achieving the overall national goal of socioeconomic transformation for poverty reduction, economic revival and societal transfer in a socially just and gender equitable manner.

Context

The UNV Project Administrative and Finance Associate for ””Saameynta Scaling-Up Solutions to Displacement in Somalia”” Project works under the overall guidance of the ERID Portfolio Manager and the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator, to whom she/he reports, in close collaboration with the government counterparts, UNDP operations team, programme staff in other Participating UN Organizations, donors, private sector and civil society (CSOs) to ensure the successful implementation of UNDP programme. This is a short assignment to 31st December 2025, any extension beyond this will depend on fund availability.

Key Responsibilities

1.) Ensure implementation of operational strategies (procurement, finance and HR)
• Ensure consistency in the application of UN rules and procedures
• Ensure Full compliance of financial processes and financial records with UN/UNDP rules, regulations, policies and strategies
• Coordinate all support services from the UNDP on recruitment, procurement and financial management.
• Effectively manage contracts with consultants (in coordination with the UNDP finance and procurement units)
• Assist staff with operational / administrative matters
• Undertake logistical arrangements for project staff and visiting missions (mainly donors and consultants)
• Coordinate and compile asset management records for the project in a timely manner
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings (logistics and payments) as required
• Organize and coordinate trainings, conferences and workshops pertaining to the activities and workplan of the unit2.) Ensure effective project financial management:
• Regular monitoring of expenses and submission of financial reports to programme management and to donors as per the schedules
• Provide financial analysis of the programme budgets and expenses
• Monitor programme budget implementation and ensure that expenditures are within the approved budget
• allotments and in conformity with UN financial rules, regulations and procedures
• Review and ensure that effective financial controls are in place and are being implemented
• Coordinate closely with MPTF on donor contracts management, reporting and financial management
• Update and track the programme delivery rate periodically and on request
• Provide inputs for project budgets and manage the receivables and expenditure
• Harmonise partner agencies financial and other reports with donor reporting requirements3.) Ensure effective administrative and knowledge management:
• Provide effective administrative support to the project
• Ensure adequate and retrievable database / filing system for all project documents including soft and hard
• copies and managing the project archive
• Attend meetings, take minutes, records, distribute and file agreements as required
• Advising and guiding staff and consultants on UNDP administrative and reporting requirements and clearance procedures for finance, procurement, recruitment, travel, etc.
• Collating and maintaining up to date data relevant to the programme, drafting routine correspondence,
• following up pending issues and responding to queries
• Contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice4.) Networking and relationship management:
• Build strong relationships and networks with partners
• Participate effectively in a team-based information sharing environment
• Manage complex problems proactively and effectively, including responses to emergencies and novel ideas/plans Implement effective communication tools

Required Skills and Experience

3 years of relevant professional experience in finance, administration and programme support service
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) Advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages,
• Experience in handling of web-based management systems and ERP financials
• Experience working with UN organizations / international NGOs in Somalia or other countries of the region
• Experience in projects implementation in post-conflict situations
• Proven ability to deliver results in complex and challenging environments, and to translate strategies and good practices into practical and feasible solutions
• Knowledge of enterprise resource planning systems such as Atlas is desirable Sound security awareness.
• Have affinity with or interest in volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN system.

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Creativity
• Judgement and decision-making
• Planning and organising
• Professionalism
• Self-management

Living Conditions

This is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Mogadishu, the capital city of Somalia. Mogadishu is a high-risk duty station with ongoing security concerns due to conflict and instability. The UN Volunteer will be subject to the overall direction and guidance of the UN Designated Official (DO) for security and will be fully integrated into all applicable UN security protocols. Volunteers are expected to strictly adhere to all security instructions, guidelines, and procedures provided by UNDSS and UNDP security personnel.

As this is a national position, accommodation will not be provided by the United Nations. The volunteer is expected to secure housing independently. It is highly recommended that accommodation be selected in consultation with UN security personnel to ensure it meets minimum safety standards. Movement in and around Mogadishu is regulated, and UN personnel are required to obtain security clearance before any official travel within the area.

The climate in Mogadishu is hot and arid, with high temperatures throughout the year and minimal rainfall. Electricity, water, and internet services are available in the city, although occasional disruptions may occur. Access to medical services is limited but available through UN-approved clinics and hospitals.

While Mogadishu is located along the coast and some areas offer access to recreational facilities, living conditions remain challenging. Volunteers should be prepared for a non-family duty station with limited social and leisure opportunities.