The Project “Support to European Integration of North Macedonia” is designed to support North Macedonia’s accession negotiations and successful management of the overall European Union (EU) integration process. The Project is funded by the Swiss Government through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and is implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
This Project is part of a larger intervention supporting the EU accession process of North Macedonia, together with the complementary activities funded by Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) which was launched on 1 September 2023, and by the Secretariat for European Affairs, launched on 1 January 2024. It will also build on the momentum generated by the predecessor, “Nordic Support for Progress in North Macedonia” (the Predecessor Project) implemented by UNOPS, which was co-funded by Sida and Norway, and as confirmed by the Final Evaluation, effectively supported the EU integration process.
Within this context, while building on the momentum created by the predecessor, the Project will enhance the institutional, technical, and administrative capacity of the Government to conduct EU accession and will contribute to enhanced communication of the EU accession negotiation process to the public. The overall objective will be achieved through the delivery of two coherent Results.
Specifically, Result 1 will strengthen capacities of national institutions supporting the EU accession through provision of TA and capacity building to the Government Coordination Mechanism for Accession Negotiation. Support will facilitate effective alignment of national legislation with the EU acquis and its implementation, while at the same time facilitating engagement and contributions form relevant stakeholders, and exchange of experiences and cooperation with the EU Member States and countries from the region.
Within the duration of the assignment, the Capacity Building Specialist is expected to provide support to MEA for strengthening the capacity of the MEA Training Centre. The Specialist will conduct an analysis to identify needs and priorities of MEA’s Training Centre. The analysis will provide inputs for preparation of the Action Plan for supporting MEA’s training centre and will facilitate establishment of systematic approach to training of national administration involved in the accession process. This assignment also includes support for implementation of the Training Plan for MEA employees, with focus on the line ministries and other institutions part of the negotiation structure. The assignment encompasses preparation and organisation of training events related to implementation of the harmonised legislation for various government institutions but also other topics related to EU integration.
In particular, the Specialist will undertake the following activities/responsibilities:
Education
Work Experience
Language Requirements
Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above) |
Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion. |
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. |
Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). |
Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. |
Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. |
Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. |
Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground. |
Contract type: Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) – retainer*
Contract level: IICA 2 (ICS 10)
Contract duration: Up to 40 working days during a period of one year
*If the selected candidate is based in a duty station where there is a national scale, s/he may be offered the local equivalent position.
Terms and Conditions
The mission of UNOPS is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. As a part of the United Nations family, and as the only self-financed UN organisation, UNOPS is committed to UN values and private sector efficiency.
In Serbia, UNOPS has been active since 2000 and the organisation provides support in conducting demanding socio-economic reforms and facilitating accession to the European Union. The projects focus on sustainable local development, good governance, the rule of law, social cohesion, environment and emergency response. The projects are implemented with funding from the European Union (EU), the Governments of Switzerland, Sweden, Serbia, and the UN organisations.
UNOPS Serbia Multi-Country Office (RSMCO) also covers Montenegro and North Macedonia, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the need for support and potential engagements are being assessed. The work of UNOPS and the projects it implements is contextualised within the broader Sustainable Development Goals frameworks and objectives of the countries of its operations.