Organizational Location: UN-Habitat
Duty Station: Home based
Functional Title: Consultant: Programming of an online training management tool
Duration: 1 August 2012 – 31 December 2012 (50 days of work within this time frame) Capacity development of local authorities is a key to sustainable urban development and in order to reach out to local authorities UN-Habitat frequently collaborates with training institutions in developing countries. Despite all having the “capacity to build capacity” training institutions are not a homogenous group, they can be very different in institutional setup, how they work and what resources they have. Training is a common form of capacity development. It is not the answer to all capacity issues but when training is an appropriate approach the design of the training programme is crucial to its effectiveness. According to good practice training the process should include training needs assessment, training design, delivery (including follow-up activities), and evaluation of the training. However, most training programmes end with the training event and no further evaluation is carried out. Consequently the training provider does not know whether the participants have learnt anything or if the knowledge and skills are used when they are back at the workplace. Lack of follow-up is also common, and when the participants do not get any support in applying what they have learnt the likelihood of the training having a positive impact is drastically reduced. The Capacity Development Unit of UN-Habitat is currently engaged in a project on strengthening training institutions. As part of this project the unit has developed a concept of an online training management tool – aiming to support training institutions in providing effective training programmes, including all the crucial steps of the training process. The format will be a highly interactive website, building on the theory of the UN-Habitat practice note on effective training in combination with functions supporting implementation of theory. As a next step a beta version of the tool will be developed and this consultancy is for the development of the technical platform of the tool. Functions of the Training Management Tool To enable adaptation of the tool the specific institutional needs the institutes have to register to access some of the functions. When registered they can create and manage training projects, and since the tool is connected to the internet all involved parties can stay updated on the progress of the project and access related material, no matter if they are working in the same office or not. A central function of the tool is a project checklist with all the sub steps that should be included when creating an effective training programme. The steps are sorted by the main phases of the training process and each sub step is linked to theory and functions relevant to the specific step. Another function is project folders where documents and other project related material can be uploaded and shared both with colleagues internally and with external parties, such as clients or training participants. The training management tool can also be used to invite, select and communicate with training participants. An adaptable online application form is linked to a database where the participants are automatically listed after applying. By using the tool to manage training projects the institutes can keep record of their ongoing and past projects, and build on previous experiences in their new projects. See Annex A for specifications and visualizations of the tool and its functions.
The consultancy is for the development of the technical platform of the tool and its interface, which includes the following activities: Review the requirements, functions and structure of the tool. Discuss implementation with the UN-Habitat focal point and create a time plan. Develop new or implement existing back end solution which allows UN-Habitat to: - Add and edit texts and images on start page, “About” page, “Concept & tools” page, and their sub pages. Create new sub pages. Add and edit text and images on “My page” and its sub pages. - Edit steps of checklist (create the list that the users can choose from). - Decide when statistics pages will be visible to everyone. - Approve registrations of new institutes. - View general usage statistics (most visited pages, total number of users etc.) Develop start page, “Concepts & tools” page, “About” page, “FAQ” page and their sub pages, and if necessary assist in uploading material on the pages. Develop user registration system and administration of user groups. Develop “My page” and its sub pages. Develop project pages and related functions. Develop statistics pages and user database (for all users to access) and internal statistics page (only accessible to users within the same institute/user group).Test the tool and fix bugs. Write technical documentation and user manuals. One manual for UN-Habitat, to support administration of the tool, and one manual for the end-users. Adapt the tool according to feedback from end-users after about two months of pilot testing of the tool (10 days of work).Flexibility: If required, incorporate new functions or adapt existing functions to new requirements while taking implications on time plan and overall development into consideration. Teamwork: Work closely with the Training Management Tool focal point to jointly design solutions reflecting the users’ needs. Technological awareness: Excellent knowledge of new technology in the field, as well as awareness of technological limitations in developing countries, and ability to utilize that to optimize the platform and database. Communication: Effectively communicating with technically knowledgeable staff or users, as well as staff or users with little experience of databases and web tools. Creativity: Ability to find new solutions for interface and functions to meet the users’ needs.
University degree in computing and software development, computer science or closely related field.

Work Experience
A minimum of five years experience in application development, database design and web development using PHP, .NET, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL or other relational database. At least three years of experience in development of multi-tier information systems.

Language Skills: Fluency in spoken and written English.

Remuneration 

Payments will be based on deliverables over the consultancy period. There are set remuneration rates for consultancies. The rate is determined by functions performed and experience of the consultant. The fees will be paid as follows: » 30 per cent of the total is payable upon completion of output a, b, and c. » 60 per cent is payable upon completion of output d, e, f, and g. » 10 per cent is payable upon completion of output h.

Item Activity Output

Review requirements, functions and structure of the tool. Discuss implementation with the UN-Habitat focal point and create time plan. Time plan created. b Develop new or use existing back end solution which allows UN-Habitat to: - Add and edit texts and images on start page, “About” page, “Concept & tools” page, and their sub pages. Create new sub pages. Add and edit text and images on “My page” and its sub pages. - Edit steps of checklist (create the list that the users can choose from). - Decide when statistics pages will be visible to everyone. - Approve registrations of new institutes. - View general usage statistics (most visited pages, total number of users etc.) Back end solutions developed Develop start page, “Concepts & tools” page, “About” page, “FAQ” page and their sub pages, and assist in uploading material on the pages. Develop user registration system and administration of user groups. Pages (start, concept & tools, about, FAQ, and sub pages) and registration and administration system developed. Develop “My page” and its sub pages. Develop project pages and related functions. “My page”, sub pages and project pages developed. Develop statistics pages and user database (for all users to access) and internal statistics page (only accessible to users within the same institute/user group). Statistics pages (open and internal) and user database developed. Test the tool and fix bugs. Fully functional tool developed. Write technical documentation and user manuals. One manual for UN-Habitat, to support administration of the tool, and one manual for the end-users. Technical documentation and user manuals (for UN-Habitat and end-users) finalized. Adapt the tool according to feedback from end-users after about two months of pilot testing of the tool (10 days of work). Tool adapted.UN-HABITAT does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. If you have any questions concerning persons or companies claiming to be recruiting on behalf of these offices and requesting the payment of a fee, please contact: recruitment@unon.org
How to apply:

Applications should include: 

Cover memo (maximum 1 page) Summary CV (maximum 2 pages), indicating the following information: Educational Background (incl. dates) Professional Experience (assignments, tasks, achievements, duration by years/ months) Other Experience and Expertise (e.g. Internships/ voluntary work, etc.)Expertise and preferences regarding location of potential assignments Expectations regarding remuneration Examples of at least two previous website development projectsAll applications should be submitted to: Ms. Cynthia Radert UN-Habitat P.O. Box 30030, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Email: cynthia.radert@unhabitat.org

Please be advised that since April 15th 2010, applicants for consultancies must be part of the UN-HABITAT e-Roster in order for their application to be considered. You can reach the e-Roster through the following link: http://e-roster.unhabitat.org/

Deadline for applications: 22 July 2012

UN-HABITAT does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. If you have any questions concerning persons or companies claiming to be recruiting on behalf of these offices and requesting the payment of a fee, please contact: recruitment@unon.org

Closing date: 28 Feb 2011
Location: Kenya - Nairobi, Kenya Amman, JORDAN (with requirement of frequent Missions to Iraq and possible move to Iraq)
ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION: UN-HABITAT

DUTY STATION:ASSIGNMENT STATION: Nairobi, Kenya Amman, JORDAN (with requirement of frequent Missions to Iraq and possible move to Iraq)

FUNCTIONAL TITLE:Programme Manager, UN-Habitat IRAQ Progamme

GRADE:P-6

POST DURATION: One year

CLOSING DATE: 26 February 2011

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Background

UN-HABITAT, the United Nations agency for human settlements, helps the urban poor by transforming cities unto safer, healthier, greener places with better opportunities where everyone can live in with dignity. It works with organizations at every level, including all spheres of government, civil society and the private sector to help build, manage, plan and finance sustainable urban development.

UN-HABITAT has been managing programmes in Iraq for nearly 15 years and is involved in a number of reconstruction and rehabilitation projects in addition to technical assistance & capacity building in the Housing, Urban and Community Infrastructure sectors with a total portfolio since 2005 worth approx. $100 million. The programme is managed by an Amman and in-country based teams of international staff and locally employed staff led by a Programme Manager (PM). The PM is the front line contact for the UN-HABITAT Iraq Programme, is responsible for strategic oversight of all UN HABITAT-supported projects, programmes and partnerships and enjoys a substantial Delegation of Authority. The PM represents UN-HABITAT in UN Country Team (UNCT) as Head of Agency.
Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director, Regional Office for African and Arab States (ROAAS) and working in active consultation with the Nairobi-based Senior Human Settlements Officer for the Iraq Programme, the PM has the following duties and responsibilities:
Leadership and representation

* Promotes a positive and accurate image of UN-HABITAT within the UN Iraq Programme, including through engagement in high-level policy dialogue and through participation in relevant strategic policy and programme fora.
* Builds strong partnerships with relevant Ministries of the Government of Iraq to support policy formulation and capacity development related to sustainable human settlements development.
* Represents UN-HABITAT at the Iraq UN Country Team meetings and ensures that UN-HABITAT is able to provide state-of-the-art technical expertise to strengthen the human settlements development dimensions in UNCT programmes and policies.
* Fosters partnerships and collaboration with donors, and other international agencies to mobilize resources for projects, programmes on human settlements development.
* Builds strategic alliances with Habitat Agenda partners, and other development agencies in Iraq working in the field of human settlements development.

Programme Development and Management

* Leads on the development and monitoring of UN-HABITAT's Iraq Assistance Strategy and Programme, ensuring that it is aligned with national and UNCT priorities.
* Promotes and guides the development of effective joint programmes with sister UN agencies, including to ensure UN-HABITAT's full contribution to development and implementation of the UN Assistance Strategy and other UN coordination initiatives.
* Contributes to the preparation, implementation and monitoring of rehabilitation and Technical Assistance and Capacity Building programmes for sustainable human settlements development.
* Supervises timely and high quality and visibility (website, publications, and consolidated programme data) to ensure that information about UN- HABITAT's work is easily accessible to stakeholders and partners.

Managerial Functions: The PM is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of UN HABITAT financial and human resources in the Amman Office including:

* Staff Management: In line with the UN rules and regulations, the PM ensures effective management, career development, and security of all staff.
* Financial management: In line with the delegation of authority, the PM ensures proper financial management of, and accurate and timely reporting on programme/project resources.
* Strategic management: The PM ensures effective and efficient management of partnerships with all key development partners.

Competencies

Demonstrates and uphold UN Core Values: Integrity, Respect for Diversity and Professionalism
Core Competencies:

* Professionalism _ has substantive and demonstrated professional experience in the area of human settlements development and is policy competent. Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UN-HABITAT. Remains calm in stressful situations and shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges
* Accountability _ takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs within time, cost and quality standards.
* Communication _ demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills, including ability to convey complex concepts in a clear and concise style.

Managerial Competencies:

* Leadership _ Proven track record of excellent management and technical leadership skills and ability to delegate appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision making authority. Proven Record of building and managing teams and creating an enabling work environment, including the ability to effectively lead, supervise, mentor, develop and evaluate staff and design training skills enhancement initiatives to ensure effective transfer of Knowledge/skills. Demonstrated flexibility in leadership by performing and/or overseeing change initiatives, including the analysis of complex human resources, budgetary, financial or administrative management policy and programmatic issues.

* Vision _ The incumbent would contribute substantively to developing the strategic vision of the office, translates vision into reality but generating broad and compelling direction whilst providing guidance to the professionals of ROAS.

* Managing Performance _ managing the performance of professionals in the various priority areas. Proven capacity to motivate and manage a multi-national team of high level professionals and support staff. Regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff. Apply work programme implementation progress against milestones.

* Building Trust and Empowerment _ Promoting reciprocal relationships between UN-HABITAT and the country.

Required Skills and Experience

Education.
Advanced degree in Engineering/Architecture/Planning or any relevant disciplines related to international development or a first university degree with a relevant combination of professional and academic qualifications.

Work Experience
At least fifteen years of progressively responsible post qualification experience in managing development programmes, including at least 8 years of experience in human settlements development at national and international levels preferably obtained from UN-Habitat or from another UN Agency/field/programme. Work experience in a UN Security Phase 3 duty station would be an advantage.

Language
English and French are the working languages of the UN. Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of Arabic is an asset.

Skills
Knowledge of basic computer programs such as Word, Spreadsheets, email and internet search functions. Knowledge of UN rules and regulations related to technical cooperation. Proven ability to Fund Raise resources for Technical Co-operation Projects.

Remuneration

See UN website http://www.un.org/Depts/OHRM/salaries_allowances/index.html

Please download the form (MS-Word) UN Personal History Form (P11) from Vacancy web site http://www.unon.org/vac.php
Please note that applications received after the closing date stated above, will not be given consideration. Only short-listed candidates whose applications respond to the above criteria will be contacted for interview. The salary will be determined according to the qualifications, skills and relevant experience of the selected candidate. In line with UN-HABITAT policy on gender equity, applications from female candidates will be particularly welcome.

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