Senior Programme Manager

  • Senior-level, Short-term contract assignment
  • Posted on 11 March 2026
  • Colombo, Sri Lanka
  • Closing on 27 March 2026
  • Current
  • Save for later

Job Description

This is a unique opportunity to lead a diverse portfolio of projects in Sri Lanka, contributing to the country’s sustainable development goals. The position offers significant leadership responsibilities, stakeholder engagement at a high level, and the chance to shape the strategic direction of UNOPS programmes in the Sri Lanka Multi Country Office.

The Senior Programme Manager will lead and oversee projects and programmes under the Sri Lanka portfolio, ensuring effective programme delivery and performance. This role involves providing strategic advice to senior management, managing external stakeholder relationships, and ensuring adherence to UNOPS procedures and quality standards. The position requires a strong focus on monitoring, reporting, and knowledge management to drive innovation and achieve programme objectives.

The Senior Programme Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and successful delivery of the UNOPS delivery programme in Sri Lanka. This includes strategic planning, programme implementation, stakeholder management, and ensuring the quality and impact of all projects within the portfolio.

1. Programme Delivery and Performance

  • Lead and oversee the planning, implementation, and monitoring of all projects within the Sri Lanka portfolio, ensuring alignment with UNOPS strategic objectives and client requirements.

  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, utilizing effective project management methodologies and tools.

  • Monitor project performance against key indicators, identify risks and issues, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure successful project outcomes.

  • Provide strategic advice and guidance to project teams, ensuring effective problem-solving and decision-making.

2. Procedures

  • Ensure all projects adhere to UNOPS policies, procedures, and best practices, including procurement, finance, and human resources.

  • Implement and maintain robust internal controls to ensure compliance with UNOPS regulations and donor requirements.

  • Promote a culture of accountability and transparency in all programme activities.

3. Monitoring and Reporting

  • Establish and maintain a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework to track project progress and impact.

  • Prepare regular progress reports, financial reports, and other documentation as required by UNOPS and donors.

  • Conduct regular site visits and project reviews to assess performance and identify areas for improvement.

4. Stakeholder Engagement

  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, donors, implementing partners, and local communities.

  • Represent UNOPS at meetings, conferences, and other events, promoting the organization’s mission and capabilities.

  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure project success.

5. Quality Assurance

  • Implement and maintain a quality assurance system to ensure projects meet the highest standards of performance and compliance.

  • Conduct regular audits and reviews to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.

  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the programme team.

6. Knowledge Management and Innovation

  • Promote knowledge sharing and learning within the programme team, capturing best practices and lessons learned.

  • Identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in programme delivery, leveraging new technologies and approaches.

  • Contribute to the development of knowledge products and publications to disseminate programme results and lessons learned.

7. Personnel Management

  • Lead, manage, and mentor a team of project managers and support staff, fostering a high-performance culture.

  • Conduct performance appraisals, provide feedback, and identify training and development needs for team members.

  • Ensure effective recruitment, onboarding, and retention of qualified personnel.

About the Organization

United Nations Office for Project Services

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