The Project Coordination Unit (PCU) is responsible for developing and implementing high-level project management methodologies, standards, and tools, including expectations based on the size of initiatives/projects. The Unit monitors project management performance and provides advice and recommendations to continuously improve and build project management capacities across staff and project partners. The advice, guidance, and recommendations provided by the PCU cover all project phases from planning, start-up, implementation, monitoring and reporting, evaluation, and learning, to closeout. The PCU contributes to other initiatives, including project identification and development, with expertise in project management and project-level MELIA.

Objective

In collaboration with PCU Program Managers and the Global Head of Project Coordination Unit, the consultancy undertakes a range of program planning, implementation, reporting and administrative activities to support the development, delivery of programs, in line with established PCU, CIP and ONE CGIAR plans and objectives. The Consultant will report to the Global Head, Project Coordination Unit.

Deliverables

2024 Replan Plan of Results and Budget (PORBs) Quality assessed and published on the CGIAR Website.
Logistical support in PCU lead meetings include MELIA Coordination Meeting and PCU retreat.
Monday.com platforms updated in line with PCU 2024 Objectives and Key Results.
Timely update of PCU share point and files.
PCU Mailbox is well maintained, and all queries responded to in a timely manner.
Well-drafted Project Management documents and presentations produced and disseminated appropriately.
PCU Retreat Organized
2024 Technical Reporting.
Selection Criteria

Master’s degree in international development, project management, business or other related areas.
Specialized experience and skills in MELIA, project planning and reporting, and/or managing projects at regional and global levels for research and development projects and programs.
At least seven (7) years post-qualification experience in MELIA, Project Planning, Reporting and/or managing of research for development projects.
Substantial people management and team building experience.
Proven experience in providing advice to leadership roles, and external stakeholders of research projects.
Proven ability to advocate, build, and develop multidisciplinary teams and manage talent, with a strong commitment to promoting diversity, knowledge sharing, and staff development.
Ability to effectively communicate a common vision to diverse internal and external stakeholders.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills and ability to work collaboratively with people at all levels in a decentralized, respectful, multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary organization.
Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.