Senior Expert – Skills and Workforce Development (UN Volunteer)

About the role

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a Senior Expert to lead the Skills Audit and Workforce Development programme for Zimbabwe's Ministry of Skills Audit and Development. This 12‑month UN Volunteer assignment is based in Harare and reports directly to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and the UNDP Transformative Governance Team Leader.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement and review a national Skills Development Policy and strategic plans aligned with the Ministry’s vision and national development goals.
• Conduct a comprehensive baseline mapping of existing skills, skill gaps and training institutions (universities, TVET programmes, etc.).
• Develop and propose market monitoring systems to regularly track skills shortages and emerging workforce needs.
• Provide technical guidance for the creation of policies, programmes and platforms that enhance citizen engagement and income‑generation opportunities.
• Coordinate closely with UNDP, government officials and development partners to ensure coherent implementation of the Country Programme Document (2022‑2026).

Required profile

• Extensive experience in skills development, workforce planning or related policy formulation at senior level.
• Proven ability to lead large‑scale assessments and design evidence‑based policy interventions.
• Strong understanding of higher education, TVET systems and labour market dynamics in low‑ and middle‑income contexts.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills, with experience working with government ministries and international agencies.

Required skills

What we offer

• UN Volunteer status with a 12‑month fixed‑term assignment.
• Opportunity to shape national skills policy and contribute to Zimbabwe’s transition to an upper‑middle‑income economy.
• Professional development within the UN system and exposure to multi‑sectoral development initiatives.