Position: Hub Animator (Phnom Penh Capital Hall)__Deadline:17-March

The Smart City Secretariat coordinates Phnom Penh's efforts to become a more livable, resilient, and innovative capital city. It works across municipal departments to integrate sustainability and smart solutions into urban planning, service delivery, and governance. Its work is driven by the Phnom Penh Smart City Road Map 2035.

AIMF is the global network of francophone local authorities. Together, they nurture a vision of tomorrow's city that promotes sustainable and shared growth, placing people at the heart of urban projects. They develop a new form of cooperation combining high-level joint reflection and field action that prioritizes innovation and local expertise. AIMF brings together more than 350 cities and associations of cities in 55 countries. The AIMF Regional Network in South-East Asia, with its Office hosted by PPCA, counts 15 members and growing in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. Its mission is to amplify the voice of its members to ensure their positions are taken into account in various decision-making forums, to facilitate project incubation, and to implement concrete projects in urban development.

 

The Smart City Hub Phnom Penh represents a pioneering initiative to strengthen urban governance, citizen engagement, and sustainable development in Cambodia's capital city. Established through the AIMF Strategic Partnership with the European Union and under the supervision of the Phnom Penh Capital Administration's Smart City Secretariat, the Hub serves as a dynamic platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.

The Smart City Hub Phnom Penh addresses critical urban challenges facing rapidly developing Southeast Asian cities, including:

• Accelerated urbanization: Phnom Penh's population continues to grow rapidly, requiring innovative approaches to urban planning and service delivery
• Climate resilience: The city faces increasing vulnerability to climate impacts, necessitating green infrastructure and adaptive strategies
• Digital transformation: Smart city technologies offer opportunities to improve municipal efficiency and citizen services
• Stakeholder coordination: Complex urban challenges require enhanced collaboration between government, private sector, civil society, and citizens
• Citizen engagement: Building trust and participation in urban governance through accessible, welcoming public spaces

The Hub operates within a 315 sqm facility comprising:

• 165 sqm exhibition and events space for public engagement
• 50 sqm co-working area for pilot projects and collaborative initiatives
• 50 sqm meeting and learning space for workshops and training
• 30 sqm manager office
• 20 sqm storage and support facilities

Initial operations will focus on smart, green and resilient city development, with at least one public event per month, alongside project development, partnerships facilitation, and knowledge management activities.
 
The Smart City Hub Phnom Penh was presented during the AIMF Regional Network Dialogue on Smart Cities, and will continue to actively support experience exchange and capacity building fostered through the regional cooperation among local authorities in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam since 2013, thanks to the support of the AIMF and EU Strategic Partnership.

The Hub Animator will bring the Smart City Hub to life as a vibrant, welcoming, and engaging space for citizens, municipal officials, innovators, and stakeholders. Working under the supervision of the Hub Manager and in close collaboration with the Phnom Penh Capital Administration, the Hub Animator will be responsible for creating meaningful experiences, organizing events, managing daily operations, and ensuring the Hub serves as an accessible gateway for public participation in urban development.

This role requires a creative, people-oriented professional who can transform the physical space into a dynamic community hub while maintaining smooth operations and effective communication.

Position Title: Hub Animator - Smart City Hub Phnom Penh
Reporting to: Hub Manager
Location: Smart City Hub Phnom Penh, Wat Phnom, Cambodia
Contract Type: Service contract with Phnom Penh Capital Administration
Duration: 7 months with possible extension based on performance and funding availability
Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
Starting Date: March 2026

 

Roles and Responsibilities: 
Hub Animation and Community Engagement (50%)
1.    Events Organization and Management:

• Plan, organize, and facilitate at least one public event per month focused on smart, green and resilient cities and sustainable urban development themes, aligned with PPCA’s priorities outlined in the Phnom Penh Smart City Road Map 2035
• Coordinate workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and learning sessions for diverse audiences, with support from the Hub Manager
• Organize open house sessions to welcome citizens and stakeholders to discover the Hub’s exhibition on Smart Cities
• Manage events logistics including invitations, registrations, catering, equipment, and documentation, with support from Hub Manager
• Facilitate engaging and inclusive events that encourage participation and dialogue
• Ensure events create welcoming and safe spaces for all participants
• Create opportunities for networking and peer-to-peer exchange

2.    Visitor Hosting and Experience:

• Provide warm, professional hosting for all Hub visitors
• Conduct tours and presentations about the Hub's mission, activities, and exhibition
• Respond to visitor inquiries and facilitate connections to relevant resources
• Ensure the Hub remains accessible, welcoming, and inclusive
• Gather visitor feedback and suggestions for Hub improvement

3.    Hub Working Space Management (Training room and co-working space):

• Coordinate uses of the co-working and training spaces for PPCA projects
• Supervise space rental based on approved tariffication by PPCA
• Support project teams using the space with logistics and facilitation needs
• Maintain a productive and inspiring work environment

Communication and Knowledge Management (25%)
1.    Content Creation and Storytelling:

• Produce engaging content (articles, social media posts, photos, videos) documenting Hub activities, projects, and impact
• Develop communication materials for events, exhibitions, and programs
• Create visual content that brings the Hub's work to life

2.    Exhibition Management:

• With direct support from the Hub Manager, design and supervise the production of two to three temporary exhibitions in the 165 sqm exhibition space on urban innovation, citizen initiatives, and municipal achievements
• Coordinate with project teams and partners to showcase pilot projects and innovations

3.    Digital Communication:

• Manage the Hub's social media presence (Facebook, Telegram, and other platforms as appropriate)
• Maintain the Hub's website or web presence in coordination with AIMF and Phnom Penh Capital Administration
• Engage with online communities and respond to inquiries
• Monitor and report on communication reach and engagement

4.    Documentation:

• Document events, workshops, and activities through photos, videos, and written reports
• Maintain archives of Hub activities and materials

5.    Stakeholder Communication:

• Support Hub Manager to communicate with Hub partners, collaborators, and stakeholders
• Distribute invitations, announcements, and newsletter
• Maintain contact databases and mailing lists

Administrative and Financial Support (15%)
1.    Financial Tracking and Reporting:

• Track Hub operational expenses and maintain accurate financial records
• Process invoices and payment requests according to PPCA and AIMF procedures
• Support Hub Manager in budget monitoring and financial reporting

2.    Procurement and Vendor Management:

• Coordinate procurement of supplies, materials, and services for events and operations
• Manage relationships with vendors and service providers
• Ensure compliance with procurement procedures

3.    Administrative Coordination:

• Coordinate with Phnom Penh Capital Administration support divisions (General Administration, Finance and International Relations)
• Ensure Hub compliance with administrative procedures
• Prepare meeting minutes and internal communications
• Maintain Hub calendar and schedule

Hub Operations Management (10%)
1.    Facility Management:

• Ensure the Hub space is clean, organized, functional, and welcoming at all times
• Oversee daily opening and closing procedures (general public access)
• Coordinate maintenance and repairs as needed
• Manage inventory of equipment, furniture, and supplies
• Ensure building security protocols are followed

2.    Equipment and Technology:

• Maintain event equipment (projectors, sound systems, presentation materials)
• Troubleshoot basic technical issues
• Coordinate with IT support for technology needs
• Ensure equipment is ready for events and activities

Key Requirements: 

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Event Management, Social Sciences, Urban Studies, or related field preferred
• Relevant professional experience may substitute for formal education

Experience:

• Minimum 3-5 years of professional experience in event management, community engagement, communications, or related fields
• Proven track record organizing successful events and programs
• Experience in community animation, facilitation, or public engagement
• Experience managing social media and digital communication platforms
• Demonstrated interest in urban topics is an asset

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong event planning and logistics management skills
• Excellent interpersonal and hosting abilities with natural warmth and hospitality
• Creative thinking and ability to design engaging experiences
• Strong communication skills across multiple formats (written, visual, verbal)
• Digital literacy including social media management, basic graphic design, photo/video documentation
• Ability to create welcoming, inclusive spaces for diverse participants
• Familiarity with participatory facilitation techniques
• Basic financial management and administrative skills
• Problem-solving abilities and flexibility to adapt to changing situations
• Attention to detail with ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Team player with ability to work independently when needed

Languages:

• Fluent in Khmer and English (written and spoken) required
• French is a strong asset

Preferred Qualifications

• Cambodian national or demonstrated deep knowledge of Cambodian cultural context
• Experience working with government institutions or municipal authorities
• Background in urban development, sustainability, or smart city topics
• Experience with innovation hubs, co-working spaces, or community centers
• Graphic design skills and proficiency with design software
• Photography and/or videography skills
• Knowledge of accessibility and inclusive design principles
• Experience with knowledge management and documentation systems
• Network within Phnom Penh's civil society, innovation, or urban development sectors

Personal Attributes

• Genuine passion for connecting with people and building community
• Naturally hospitable personality with caring, supportive approach
• Creative and resourceful with entrepreneurial spirit
• High energy and positive attitude
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity
• Organized and efficient with strong time management skills
• Proactive self-starter who takes initiative
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities
• Patient and professional under pressure
• Committed to creating inclusive and welcoming spaces
• Passion for urban development and social impact

Conditions:
Full-time position based at Smart City Hub Phnom Penh
Standard working hours with flexibility required for events (evenings, occasional weekends)
Time-in-lieu arrangements for work outside standard hours
Direct supervision by Hub Manager with support from Phnom Penh Capital Administration
Occasional travel within Phnom Penh and potentially to other provinces for events or study visits
Office facilities, equipment, and event materials provided
Collaborative working environment with diverse partners and stakeholders

Application Procedure
The recruitment is conducted by Phnom Penh Capital Administration with support from AIMF Secretariat, based on an open call for applications.

Application Package must include:
1.    Cover Letter (maximum 2 pages) presenting:

• Motivation for the position
• Understanding of the Hub's mission and community engagement approach
• Relevant experience and creative ideas for Hub animation
• Why you're passionate about creating welcoming community spaces

2.    Detailed Curriculum Vitae including:

• Professional experience with specific achievements in event management/community engagement
• Education and training
• Language proficiencies
• Links to work samples (if available): social media campaigns, event photos, communication materials
• References (3 professional references with contact information)

3.    Copy of valid passport or national identity card

If shortlisted, candidates will be required to provide before interview:

• Certified copies of diplomas and relevant qualifications
• Portfolio or examples of previous work (event documentation, communication materials, etc.)
• Writing samples in Khmer and English

For questions regarding this position contact: pothrothppch@gmail.com , sp@aimf.asso.fr

Please send CV and cover letter to
Email:      lyhour.ppca.aimf@gmail.com ; pothrothppch@gmail.coml

                kimchhuon_man@phnompenh.gov.kh; a.ardesi@aimf.asso.fr
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