Program Manager/climate Change & Disaster Risk Management at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Position Title: Program Manager/climate Change & Disaster Risk Management

Employer: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Employment: Full-Time | Volunteer

Place of Work: Kigali - Rwanda

Posted date: 1 month ago

Deadline: Submission date is over

Volunteer Category: National UN Volunteer Expert

Type: Onsite

Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Expected Start Date: 01 October 2025

Number of Assignments: 1

Sustainable Development Goal: SDG 13 – Climate Action

Mission and Objectives

UNDP is committed to eradicating poverty and promoting inclusive, sustainable development through democratic governance, rule of law, and resilient institutions. In Rwanda, UNDP supports the transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy by mobilizing climate finance and investing in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem restoration. These efforts align with Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and broader development goals.

Context

The Program Manager will oversee initiatives in Disaster Risk Management (DRM), Early Warning Systems (EWS), and climate adaptation. The role involves coordinating stakeholders, aligning with national priorities, integrating climate-smart approaches, and ensuring high-quality delivery across thematic areas. The position supports UNDP’s portfolio approach, enabling adaptive and synergistic programming.

Key Responsibilities

Programmatic Engagement

• Lead implementation of DRM and EWS activities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals
• Monitor progress and proactively address delays or bottlenecks
• Provide strategic oversight and troubleshooting support
• Track and report achievements, challenges, and lessons learned
• Maintain consistent communication with partners and internal teams

Policy Analysis and Knowledge Sharing

• Coordinate the Loss and Damage (L&D) study, including stakeholder engagement and data oversight
• Lead implementation of disaster risk assessment and hotspot mapping in collaboration with MINEMA
• Oversee feasibility study on AI and machine learning integration in climate forecasting
• Coordinate implementation of the Nature-based Solutions (NbS) study

Resource Mobilization

• Follow up on proposal development, ensuring timely and comprehensive responses to reviewer feedback
• Draft Terms of Reference (ToRs) for SES, HACT, and other assessments
• Develop concept notes and full proposals for DRM, EWS, climate-smart agriculture, and natural resource management
• Ensure alignment with national priorities, donor requirements, and UNDP programming

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Range: 18–80
• Nationality: Must be a national or legal resident of Rwanda
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years relevant experience
• Languages:
  • English – Fluent (Required)
  • Kinyarwanda – Fluent (Required)
• Education: Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
  • Environmental Management
  • Climate Change
  • Sustainable Development
  • Sustainable Agriculture
  • Natural Resources Management
  • Or related disciplines

Competencies and Values

• Accountability
• Integrity
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Creativity
• Judgement and Decision-Making
• Planning and Organizing
• Professionalism
• Self-Management
• Working in Teams

Skills and Experience

• Strategic advisory experience in climate change, environment, and natural resource management
• Hands-on project management experience
• Familiarity with the Paris Agreement and Rwanda’s NDCs
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Proven multitasking ability
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Strong verbal and written communication

Areas of Expertise

• Development Programmes
• Energy and Environment
• Agriculture