Project Management Specialist

Project Management and Community Engagement: Driving Digital Innovation for Human Securityment

UNDP is seeking a Project Management and Community Engagement Specialist to support the Digital X: Human Security Tech Accelerator. This global initiative connects proven digital solutions with UNDP Country Offices and governments to promote human security and dignity.

This role is home-based and involves project implementation, stakeholder engagement, and communications.

Project Management and Community Engagement Specialist

Organizational Context

UNDP operates in over 170 countries with 22,000+ staff working on poverty, inequality, governance, climate change, and environmental degradation. The Digital Strategy 2022–2025 focuses on harnessing technology to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Digital X supports scaling digital solutions from UNDP and other partners like NGOs, universities, and the private sector. This project is aligned with UNDP’s push for more coordination, less duplication, and faster solution deployment.

Project Background

The latest version of Digital X focuses on Human Security. It identifies and promotes open-source digital solutions that can scale globally. These tools are matched with country needs to deliver better outcomes in complex contexts like conflict, health crises, and climate emergencies.

Scope of Work

1. Project Management and Implementation

Organize virtual events (e.g., webinars, info sessions) to promote Digital Public Goods (DPGs).
Expand the Digital X catalogue with relevant digital solutions aligned with human security needs.
Assist Country Offices in planning and implementing new digital projects.
Facilitate connections among stakeholders: Country Offices, solution providers, and funders.
Coordinate with external partners, especially Japanese startups and other UN agencies.
Lead communications efforts (newsletters, social media, blog posts, reports).
Monitor matchmaking progress and follow up on engagements.

2. Outreach and Strategic Partnerships

Build partnerships with innovation networks and startup communities.
Engage Japanese stakeholders and support outreach efforts.
Support the Chief Digital Office’s broader digital and communications strategy.

3. Knowledge Management and Learning

Organize training for staff on relevant technical topics.
Document and share lessons learned and best practices.
Create and maintain knowledge materials (FAQs, guides, articles).
Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing platforms and communities of practice.

Institutional Arrangements

The Specialist will report to the Digital Public Infrastructure Manager in the Chief Digital Office, with a dotted reporting line to the Head of Digital Partnerships and Engagement. Flexibility in working hours is expected due to time zone differences. Occasional travel may be required.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

Master’s degree in Political Science, Communications, Development Studies, Journalism, or related field.
A Bachelor’s degree with 2 additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s.

Experience

At least 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) in managing digital transformation projects in public, nonprofit, or international development sectors.

Required Skills

Strong project management capabilities.
Experience working with digital innovation ecosystems.
Background in community engagement and outreach.

Desirable Skills

Knowledge of digital technologies and open-source tools.
Experience working with diverse partners: governments, NGOs, tech firms, or donors.
Proven communication skills through articles, reports, or newsletters.
Familiarity with tech in developing countries (e.g., GovTech, fintech, DPI).

Core Competencies

Strong goal-setting and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to change.
Inclusive mindset with a focus on collaboration.
Commitment to results, transparency, and integrity.

Equal Opportunity and Workplace Culture

UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation. Harassment, discrimination, and abuse are not tolerated.

Additional Notes

UNDP reserves the right to recruit multiple candidates for similar positions from this announcement. Applications may be retained for future opportunities.

Apply here