Title: Programme Coordinator
Functional Title: Environment Programme Coordinator
Division: Environment Division
Level: M-13i (Riparian Professional)
Duration: One-year contract renewable
Location: MRC Secretariat, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Reporting to: Division Director, Environment Division
THE MEKONG RIVER COMMISSION
The Mekong River Commission (MRC) was established by the 1995 Agreement on Co-operation for the Sustainable Development of the Mekong River Basin, between the governments of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Viet Nam. In accordance with this Agreement, the Mission of MRC is: “To promote and coordinate sustainable management and development of water and related resources for the countries’ mutual benefit and the people’s well being by implementing strategic programmes and activities and providing scientific information and policy advice.”
The Environment Division generates data, information and knowledge in order to balance economic development and environmental conservation in decision-making. In addition to establishing systems for monitoring the Basin’s environmental health, improving policies and legislation, and encouraging co-operation among the riparian countries, the programme is also charged with increasing environmental awareness amongst the public.
Under supervision of the Division Director the Environment Programme Coordinator coordinates the activities of the MRC Environment Programme, including but not limited to allocation and administration the Programme budget and oversees all technical, financial and administrative aspects of Programme.
KEY TASKS
The incumbent performs the following tasks:
- Heading the EP Team at the MRC Secretariat;
- Managing and coordinating all technical, administrative and financial activities to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of the program in full compliance with all applicable donor funding agreements, the Program document and MRCS procedures and standards;
- Manging the programme’s budget and preparing report to the Director, Environment Division, and donors.
- Preparing progress reports (including financial reporting) and other routine reports in accordance with MRCS procedures and specific requirements of the program;
- Allocates and administers the use of the programme budget with the authorization from
Division Director. - Preparing Term of Reference and allocates budgets for employment of program staff and
consultants, and oversees recruitment of staff and consultants; - Coordinating and mobilizing the resource and personnel requirements for the main activities of the EP;
- Developing and managing the EP training and guidance on its planning and implementation;
- Providing EP-related information to the CEO, the National Mekong Committees, and other
related MRCS programs; - Undertaking general advocacy, promotion and dissemination of EP project and its current
outcome with stakeholders and civil society and support NMC EP coordinators in the same
effort at national level; - Undertaking liaison and exchange information with other EP-related international and regional projects, programs and initiatives;
- Maintaining regular communication with NMCs, NMCS-EP team, and other EP-related line agencies in riparian countries; and
- Performing any other duties to the coordination and management of EP implementation and as assigned by the CEO and Director of Environment Division.
SCOPE OF AUTHORITY
- (a) Supervision requirements: The incumbent supervises Programme Staff and is responsible for their outputs, on-the-job training and performance appraisal, carried out in line with MRC guidelines.
- (b) Level of autonomy: Large decisions are generally recommendatory, unless in line with MRC policy. The incumbent administers the programme budget.
- (c) Level of problem solving required: Problem solving can be complex and the incumbent must display initiative and creativity.
- (d) Level and type of communications required: Communications are wide, both within and outside of the organisation, and extensive written documentation is required of the position.
COMPETENCE REQUIREMENTS
- (a) Core Values: Integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity.
- (b) Core Competencies: Communication, teamwork, planning and organising, accountability, creativity, client orientation, commitment to continuous learning, and technological awareness.
- (c) Managerial Competencies: Vision, leadership, empowering others, building trust, managing performance, and judgement/decision-making.
POST-SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS
- MSc/MA or higher in environmental management, sciences, water resources science,
geography, development studies or related fields; - At least 15 years relevant experience in the environmental aspects of water resource
development projects, including substantial experience in the Riparian countries; - Experience with and good knowledge of the Mekong riparian countries and the Mekong River Basin and should have a proven experience of working in an international environment;
- Knowledge/experience within development project planning, programming, execution, strategy formulation, project preparation and project management work including procurement of services and contracting is an advantage. Experience in project management, incluing preparation of annual work plans and budgets, and use of a logical framework for reporting, evaluating and monitoring;
- Experience working with governmental institutions in developing countries with a focus on
institutional strengthening and capacity building activities; - Experience in environmental management. Experience in natural resources development in river basins an advantage;
- Ability to work and co-operate in a multicultural and international environment;
- Proficiency in written and spoken English. Working knowledge of one or more riparian
languages desirable.
Brief information on remuneration
The remuneration package, subject to change, includes (i) annual net base salary exempt from tax by Lao authorities, starting at US$ 36,020.00 (M-13, step I); (ii) 6 weeks’ annual vacation; (iii) MRC’s contribution to staff member’s Provident Fund of 14% of basic salary upon completion of 3 years in service; (iv) Contribution of MRC to Health and Accident insurances (on shared basis with employee); (v) other entitlements and benefits such as dependency allowance, sick leave, maternity leave etc.
Non-resident staff members receive an additional (i) 7% of basic salary for Post Adjustment allowance; (ii) 7% of basic salary for Hardship allowance; (iii) Rental subsidy of 40% of the rent rate up to maximum of US$ 6,000 annual; (iv) Education Grant of 75% of max. expense of US$ 13,000; (v) Travel cost and Shipment expenses on assignment and upon separation; (vi) other entitlements and benefits such as Relocation Grant allowance, Home Leave Travel, Education Grant Travel, etc.
The duration of the assignment of MRC Riparian Professional Staff is up to maximum 6 years
according to 1995 Mekong Agreement and Procedural Rules.
THE MRCS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO APPOINT A CANDIDATE AT A LEVEL LOWER THAN THE ADVERTIZED LEVEL OF THE POST.
Apply for the position
Only nationals of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Viet Nam are eligible to apply. The application must include a cover letter outlining clearly how the candidate meets the requirements of the position. The post title/programme must be indicated in the application letter. In addition to the cover letter, the applicant should include his/her detailed CV and references, together with a passport-sized photo and contact email address and send to the National Mekong Committee in the applicant’s home country.
Cambodia National Mekong Committee
23 Mao Tse Toung Road, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Tel. (855-23) 218 727 Fax. (855-23) 218 506
E-mail: cnmcs@cnmc.gov.kh
LaoNational Mekong Committee
Prime Minister’s Office, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel. (856-21) 260 981-3 Fax. (856-21) 260 984
E-mail: lnmc@lnmcmekong.org
Thai National Mekong Committee
Department of Water Resources
180/3 Rama 6 Road, Soi Phibul Watana Building
Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand
Tel. (66-2) 271 6165, 271 6620
Fax. (66-2) 298 6605
Viet Nam National Mekong Committee
23 Hang Tre, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
Tel. (84-4) 825 4785 Fax. (84-4) 825 6929
E-mail: vnmc@hn.vnn.vn
