Principal Programme Management Officer

About the role

The Principal Programme Management Officer will lead the formulation and implementation of IDEP’s work programme, ensuring timely delivery of high‑impact capacity‑development activities for African Member States. Reporting to the Deputy Executive Secretary – Programme Support, the role coordinates across UNECA divisions, UN agencies and external partners.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the DES‑PS in preparing IDEP’s work programme, set priorities, allocate resources and oversee budgeting and results‑based reporting.
• Lead and supervise the design, delivery and quality assurance of training, seminars, research and policy‑dialogue products that strengthen evidence‑based socio‑economic planning.
• Recruit, manage and develop staff, ensuring gender and geographical balance, and evaluate performance through ePAS.
• Coordinate preparation of reports for intergovernmental bodies (e.g., ECOSOC, UNGA) and organise statutory meetings of IDEP’s Governing Council and Technical Advisory Committee.
• Represent IDEP at international and regional forums, promote resource mobilisation, and build strategic partnerships with African DFIs and multilateral development banks.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in programme management, strategic planning and capacity development within an international or UN context.
• Proven ability to manage human, financial and operational resources, including budget preparation and results‑based management.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with a track record of fostering teamwork and cross‑organizational collaboration.
• Excellent written and oral communication, capable of producing high‑quality reports, policy papers and briefing notes.
• Professionalism, resilience under pressure and a commitment to UN values and the African development agenda.