Private Sector Development Programme Assistant (Research and Policy)

Mission and objectives

UNDP works in more than 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience to sustain development results. UNDP has been present in Malawi since 1964. Working closely with the Government of Malawi, civil society and the private sector, UNDP’ s work aims to contribute to economic growth, sustainable environmental management, and democratic governance and accountability in Malawi. UNDP’s Country Programme Document is closely aligned to the Malawi Agenda 2063 and supports Malawi’s aim to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. UNDP ‘s programme is designed to address the interlinked issues of poverty, inequality and vulnerability to shocks and is managed within two portfolios: Responsive Institutions and Citizen Engagement which works towards strengthening effective, accountable and inclusive governance that promotes civic engagement, respect for human rights, rule of law, peace and democracy. It also works towards strengthening data generation and analysis. Resilience and Sustainable Growth which focusses on enhancing economic innovation, inclusive business, job creation, and renewable energy access. It also works towards helping Malawi adapt to climate change and build resilience to disasters.

Context

To strengthen the effective implementation of the Business Environment component under the CATALYZE Malawi initiative, UNDP is seeking a Programme Assistant – Research and Policy to be embedded within the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI). The Programme Assistant will provide essential support in research, stakeholder engagement, and private sector coordination, contributing to MCCCI’s efforts to foster a more enabling business environment in Malawi. The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Programme Assistant – Research and Policy will play a critical role in supporting MCCCI’s research, policy engagement, and stakeholder coordination efforts under the CATALYZE Malawi programme. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting policy-relevant research, performing data analysis, and generating actionable insights to inform policy briefs, opinion papers, and engagements with both public and private sector stakeholders. The Programme Assistant will also contribute to the successful delivery of MCCCI-led initiatives such as the Public-Private Dialogue Forum, quarterly member meetings, Business Leadership Summits, and other platforms for private sector engagement. This includes logistical and content support for meetings, workshops, and stakeholder consultations to foster collaboration and drive coordination. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MCCCI and working in close collaboration with the Programme Coordinator for Inclusive and Green Business, the Programme Assistant will also support planning, coordination, and implementation of core MCCCI activities. The role requires adherence to UN financial and project management regulations and procedures to ensure efficient and timely execution. The ideal candidate is a proactive and results-oriented professional with strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Task description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the MCCCI CEO or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the Programme Assistant – Research and Policy will: A. Research, Policy Analysis, and Knowledge Products – Conduct desk research and data collection on trade policy, business environment, and macroeconomic trends. – Draft policy briefs, analytical papers, and position statements to inform stakeholders and support advocacy. – Monitor regulatory developments and assess their implications for the private sector. – Translate complex economic and trade data into actionable policy recommendations. – Support the design and execution of research initiatives in collaboration with partners. B. Member Engagement and Support – Engage with MCCCI members to identify policy challenges, opportunities, and areas of interest. – Collect and analyze member feedback and sector specific data to inform the advocacy agenda. – Support to maintain a database of paid-up members and track engagement needs and support provided and more importantly through the UNDP support of SMEs, support the identification of members from the SME segment. – Provide support in providing timely responses to member queries related to trade policy, regulations, and economic developments. – Provide support in developing identified database and M&E framework for the chamber C. Stakeholder Coordination and Advocacy – Support the facilitation of dialogue between the organization, government institutions, the private sector, and development partners. – Support the preparation of advocacy materials and presentations for stakeholder forums. – Align the organization’s policy engagements with national development strategies and sectoral policies. D. Event Planning and Coordination – Support the organization and coordination of stakeholder consultations, policy dialogues, roundtables, and capacity-building events. – Ensure timely dissemination of event invitations, agendas, and discussion materials. – Document meeting proceedings, key action points, and follow-up outcomes. E. Other Duties – Perform any other related tasks as may be assigned by the supervisor to support programmatic and operational functions. Results/expected outputs: – At least 1 policy brief, research papers, or analytical reports produced quarterly. – Regular stakeholder meetings and member consultations conducted with documentation shared. – Increased responsiveness to member needs and support requests. – Events coordinated in a timely, inclusive, and results-oriented manner

Assignment requirements