Project Technical Advisor (Value Chain Expert) - Consultant

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), helps developing countries attract and use aid effectively. In all our activities, we encourage the protection of human rights, capacity development and the empowerment of women.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Position: Project Technical Advisor (Value Chain Expert) - Consultant
Job Location: Northern - Nigeria
Background

• The Government of Nigeria with the assistance of the UNDP has secured funding through the Global Environment Facility (GEE) to implements project that would foster sustainability and resilience in Nigeria agricultural production.
• The goal of the five-year project is to enhance long-term sustainability and resilience of food production systems in Nigeria, building greater community resilience to climate risks and other shocks that drive food insecurity.
• The project is seeking for qualified individuals to be recruited in the Project Management Unit (PMU).

Overall Function of the Position

• Under the supervision of the Project Manager, the TA will provide technical advice to implementing staff and other associated with the project to ensure the work is carried-out to high technical standards.
• The TA will work closely with the staff from inter alla FMARD, LGs, States, University staff and contracted NGOs/researchers/other consultants.
• The TA will be based in the project management unit and reports to the Project Steering Committee.

Main Responsibilities

• The Technical Advisor (TA) will be working on a part-time/ad-hoc basis, closely with the GEF/UNDP Regional Technical Advisor and UNDP Nigeria Country Office Programme Specialist, providing services to the Project Manager.
• Provide day-to-day technical advice to implementing staff, consultants and contractors;
• Providing quality assurance and technical review of project outputs (e.g. studies and assessments);
• The TA will assist the Project Management Unit through technical advice by:
• Advising on best suitable approaches and methodologies for achieving project targets and objectives; Conduct field visits as required to verify project activities relative to stated targets;
• Assisting its knowledge management, communications and awareness raising initiatives under the project;
• Conducting periodical scheduled visits to the project sites;
• Assisting in drafting terms of reference for technical consultancies and supervision of consultant’s work, and through providing technical supervision of the outsourced work carried out under the project for timely and quality delivery of outputs;
• Providing assistance in monitoring the technical quality of the project M&E systems, as well as the annual work plan and indicators and targets its the log-frame;
• Providing advisory support for the Project Management Unit as and when required;
• Undertake any other activity that may he necessary for the effective management of the project.

Required Experience and Skills
Education:

• Advanced University degree (at least M.Sc or equivalent) or Bachelor's degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Environmental Economies, Natural Resources, Environmental Management or another field relevant to the project.

Experience and Skills:

• At least 7 years of experience in a similar or related position;
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of livelihoods and agro-ecological issues, with special focus on dry land farming system and value chains;
• Ability to take initiative and to work independently, as well as part of a team;
• Knowledge of the GEE and UNDP funded projects and their technical and operational requirements.
• Understanding of smallholder farming issues and policy environment in Nigeria will be an added advantage.
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work under pressure and to establish and maintain effective work relationships with people of different national and cultural background.

Language Requirements:

• Proficiency in English and the relevant local language(s)

Competencies
Functional Competencies:

• Ability to communicate effectively complex, technical information;
• Good management, coordination and organization skills to facilitate production of quality outputs in a timely manner;
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a team to produce quality outputs in a timely manner.

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrate integrity by modelling the UN's values and ethical standards;
• Fulfills all obligations to gender sensitivity and zero tolerance for sexual harassment.
• Promote the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP;
• Display cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism.