Portfolio Specialist

UNDP is the UN’s global development network, an organization advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.

UNDP in Mozambique supports the Government of Mozambique to achieve sustainable development, create opportunities for empowerment, particularly for women and the most vulnerable, protect the environment, deal with disasters and build resilience, establish strategic partnerships; to improve the quality of life for all citizens.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization tackling the injustices of poverty, inequality, and climate change on a global scale. Working with our broad network of experts, host governments, and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

UNDP has been a committed partner to Mozambique’s development since 1976, working closely with the government, civil society, academia, and the private sector to advance sustainable development. Guided by its Country Programme Document and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP Mozambique focuses on four transformative pillars:
1. Human development, multi-dimensional poverty, gender equality, and public health management;
2. Inclusive economic recovery and diversification, and sustainable livelihoods;
3. Climate resilience and sustainable use of natural resources;
4. Inclusive and decentralized governance, justice, peace, and social cohesion.

Economic Challenges in Mozambique
Mozambique faces significant economic challenges, including instability, climate-related vulnerabilities, and security concerns, which impede progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and the National Strategy for Development. The country’s economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture and extractive industries, which together account for a significant portion of economic output and exports. Agriculture sustains the livelihoods of 70% of the population, while extractive industries contribute approximately 80% of exports. Despite strong economic growth over the past two decades, poverty and inequality persist, as economic expansion has not been equitably distributed. Mozambique ranks 100 out of 114 countries on the Economic Diversification Index (Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government), highlighting the need for targeted interventions to enhance economic complexity and stability.

Economic Diversification Portfolio
In collaboration with Mozambique’s Ministry of Economy and provincial governments in Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Manica, UNDP is implementing the Economic Diversification Portfolio (hereafter referred to as the Portfolio). This initiative aims to strengthen economic resilience and inclusivity by reducing Mozambique’s reliance on subsistence agriculture and extractive industries. By fostering a more diverse production and trade structure that adds value, enhancing economic stability, and reducing vulnerability to external and internal shocks, the Portfolio seeks to lay the foundation for long-term sustainable growth and poverty eradication.


The Portfolio operates within an integrated and dynamic framework, to ensure synergy across interventions and achieve strategic development outcomes. Recognizing the complexity and interdependence of Mozambique’s economic system, this holistic approach is designed to increase impact and sustainability.
The Portfolio Specialist will play a crucial role in achieving the objectives of the Economic Diversification Portfolio in Mozambique. Under the direct supervision of the Head of Solutions Mapping and the Senior Economist, and in collaboration with the Economic Policy Analysis Unit (EPAU) and Inclusive Growth Unit (IGU) teams, the Portfolio Specialist will support the Portfolio Manager in driving portfolio implementation and leading key activities.

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Solutions Mapping and the Senior Economist and in collaboration with the EPAU and IGU teams, the Portfolio Specialist will support the Portfolio Manager in driving the portfolio implementation.

Portfolio Management
• Support the Portfolio Manager in the overall management and administration of the Portfolio’s projects and initiatives, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of all outputs.
• Work closely with the portfolio team(s) and other staff assigned to the Portfolio’s projects and initiatives to ensure effective implementation of project activities.
• Support in the preparation the Portfolio’s work plans and support the Portfolio Manager in ensuring timely and high-quality implementation of activities.
• Participate in the mobilization efforts and assist in supervising contractors’ work.
• Work with the Portfolio Manager to manage and update the portfolio implementation strategy in coordination with partners and the portfolio team.
• Provide support in preparing regular updates to project boards and ensuring the proper documentation of the Portfolio and the Portfolio’s projects and initiatives.
• Support the Portfolio Manager in ensuring all the Portfolio’s outputs and deliverables meet high-quality standards.

Monitoring, Risk Management, and Reporting:
• Assist in monitoring the Portfolio’s expenditures to ensure compliance with financial rules and procedures.
• Work with the Portfolio Manager to manage the Portfolio’s risks, providing updates on emerging issues and proposing remedial actions.

Partnership Development, and Coordination
• Support the Portfolio Manager in maintaining regular communication and effective coordination with national counterparts, portfolio partners, and stakeholders.
• Assist in incorporating best practices and lessons learned on economic diversification globally.
• Help identify and mobilize new partnerships and funding sources to support new projects and initiatives.
• Provide assistance in the development of new pipeline initiatives aligned with UNDP’s strategic objectives and Mozambique’s development priorities.
• If needed, represent UNDP in relevant forums as needed and help maintain a strong network of partners.
• Contribute to the preparation of policy briefs, talking points, and relevant materials on economic diversification in coordination with the Portfolio Manager.

Team Management:
• Support the Portfolio Manager in developing and supporting the portfolio team, facilitating professional growth and knowledge-sharing.
• Foster a collaborative team environment and ensure capacity-building opportunities for team members