CONSULTANT: ELECTIONS RESULTS MANAGEMENT EXPERT
Location : Abuja, NIGERIA
Application Deadline : 10-Jan-11
Type of Contract : SSA
Post Level : International Consultant
Languages Required :English
Starting Date date when the selected candidate is expected to start) 17-Jan-2011
Duration of Initial Contract : 3 months
Expected Duration of Assignment : 3 months

Background
Democratic governance is a concept that emerged from the principles that are based on the understanding that an effective system of democratic governance is one which is based on representative, equitable (across gender and other categories), transparent, accountable and inclusive institutions; a vibrant, responsible and capable media; and a dynamic civil society which is engaged in the political process. The overall goal of the Deepening Democracy Project in Nigeria is to help develop the capacity of national and sub-national institutions, networks and processes, whether governmental or non-governmental, as a contribution to the further entrenchment of democratic governance in Nigeria.

Efforts on the electoral cycle reinforce national efforts to build the norms, practices, mechanisms and institutions that can foster active citizenship and stronger democratic accountability, in keeping with the stated objectives of Government policy. The project provides technical assistance to the Independent National Electoral Commission and the State Independent Electoral Commissions. In addition, the project works with civil society and other democratic institutions to help them maximize public participation and confidence in the outcome of elections.

Work on broader issues of democratic governance helps build the norms, practices and institutions that can underpin the development of democratic governance in Nigeria over the medium- to long-term whilst also supporting near-term action on pressing issues such constitutional and electoral reform. The project primarily provides technical assistance and financing for capacity development linked to practical outcomes in a number of areas: legislature, civil society, media, gender equality in politics and the engagement of youth.

Under the strategic direction of the Project Director, and working in close coordination with INEC, the International Elections Results Management Consultant will support the achievement of the results outlined in the Elections Strategic Plan, that relate to the work on the preliminary results transmission and support to INEC component of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities
Function / Expected Results
1. Management of the results transmission and management component of the DGD:

Develop and manage relation with INEC in the area of results transmission and management;
Preparation of activities, financial and human resources needed for creating a system for transmission of preliminary results and capacity building to support INEC in relation to the 2011 elections;
Monitor the implementation of this component of the programme and to provide detailed narrative and financial reports when due;
Undertake Needs Assessment missions with regard to preliminary results transmission and management in the country.
2. Advise on related operational matters to INEC:

The Expert will provide advise to INEC with regard to improvements of their operational capacities with regard to preliminary results transmission and management, thereby improving the capacity of INEC to correctly deliver fast and reliable elections results;
Provision of advice to the Project Director on preliminary results transmission to advise the Steering Committee Board in its strategic planning and decision-making;
Identification of best practices and lessons learnt directly linked to programme country policy goals;
Effective supervision and achievement of these deliverables from INEC.
3. Maintain relationships with INEC in the operational activities in Nigeria

Building of synergy among institutions working on results transmission;
To provide support and advise to INEC in their relation with political parties, domestic and international observer groups, and other stakeholders on this issue;
Maintenance of a robust relationship between the Technical Support Unit (TSU) of the project and partner organizations;
Nurturing broader partnerships in the areas of results transmission and engage with project partners effectively;
Effective monitoring and evaluation of operational project activities thereby ensuring value for money.
4. Certifying financially supported works focusing on achievement of the following results:

Ensuring that a results transmission system is in place to allow for a fast and reliable transmission of preliminary elections results from Polling Stations to INEC HQ level on Polling Day;
Ensuring that reporting timelines are strictly complied with;
Provision of all reports submitted by INEC collated in a well-organized manner and discussed and shared with Project Director for endorsement.
Competencies
Corporate Competencies:

Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
Treats all people fairly without favoritism
Election Administration and Assistance:

Good work experience in operational support in relation to elections and specially results transmission;
Demonstrated ability to effectively conduct operational programs in developing countries
Demonstrated ability to advise National Election Commissions in an effective and cooperative manner
Development and Operational Effectiveness:

Ability to lead strategic planning, results-based management and reporting
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Ability to lead formulation and evaluation of development programs and projects
Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors
Computer skills: Proficiency in MS Office Suite
Required Skills and Experience
A minimum of an advanced university degree in the field of Economic Science, Management, Business Administration or any other discipline relevant to the related subject.
At least ten years progressive professional experience in the work of operational support across different regional settings and in a field environment, with a minimum of 5 years in the field of communications;
Familiarity with Nigeria an added advantage
UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
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