Local Development Expert

UNDP supports strategic capacity development initiatives to promote inclusive growth and sustainable human development. Together with national, regional and local authorities, civil societies, private sector, UNDP strives to support Ukraine in its efforts to eliminate poverty, develop people’s capacity, achieve equitable results, sustain the environment, and advance democratic governance. UNDP is in line with 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), to achieve national strategic capacity development.

This assignment is part of a UNDP project aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s government system for crisis management and recovery. The project focuses on ensuring sustainability, effectiveness, and transparency in crisis response, emergency coordination, and strategic planning. The Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine (hereafter – the Ministry) has identified the need to enhance coordination between different levels of government, including local and national authorities. Strengthening local development capacities is essential for improving governance, supporting sustainable recovery, and ensuring long-term resilience in communities affected by the crisis. A key objective of this initiative is to establish a transparent and structured model of cooperation between the Ministry and international partners. To support this effort, UNDP is seeking a Local development expert with expertise in regional policy development, capacity-building for local authorities, and strategic planning.

The Local Development Expert will ensure the coherence of activities by performing the following tasks:

- Monitor the European funds and programs and conduct a comprehensive analysis to identify relevant opportunities for Ukraine.
- Develop user-friendly instructions and templates for grant applications and coordinating with State Regional Development Fund to support the preparation of high-quality funding applications.
- Provide guidance and mentorship in organizing targeted training programmes for local selfgovernment representatives to enhance their capacity and skills in accessing development funding.
- Support strategic planning and policy development to improve local authorities' access to national and international development resources.
- Collaborate with different stakeholders and partners to streamline project objectives.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor and UNDP Ukraine Leadership.