Swiss Cooperation Office for the Mekong Region

Laos

Appointment to SDC’s Programme Managing Team

The Swiss Cooperation Office for the Mekong Region in Lao PDR is the representative of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). Its mandate is to supervise and develop the Swiss bilateral development programme in Lao PDR. Switzerland is committed to support the Lao Government to reduce poverty and to reach the Millennium Development Goals. SDC gives priority to economic development, especially in the rural areas where minorities live, to gender equity, social justice, and governance reforms favouring the poor and disadvantaged. To do this effectively, we require motivated and capable professionals to join and reinforce the team with local expertise. For our Office in Vientiane, Lao PDR, we are looking for a dynamic

National Programme Officer

covering Governance issues, including public administration reforms, local governance, and promotion of civil society, as well as regional development cooperation issues.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate that they have expertise in these fields and have successful record of achievements as a professional in a national or international development agency. Applicants shall be able to think ahead, have strong analytical capacities and sound judgment. For this position we are expecting a relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent and fluency in both English and Lao, with at least 5 years relevant work experience.

The position is based in a multi-cultural environment that places a high value on inclusive team working. You will have opportunities to work closely with all levels of Government and non-governmental agencies and interact with local people from all over the country. The position offers opportunities for professional growth. The duty station is based in Vientiane but requires in-country and international travel. SDC is an equal opportunities employer and appoints on merits by open competition.

We encourage women and persons from diverse background to apply. Please send Curriculum Vitae and an application letter (not more than one page) giving the reasons why you consider being the ideal candidate for the position. Please send your application to:

Swiss Cooperation Office for the Mekong Region Laos

Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)

Cooperation Office for the Mekong Region – Laos

House 192 / 1 Sibounheuang Road

Chanthabouly District, Vientiane

P.O Box 5666

You can send a copy electronically to:

Vientiane@sdc.net

For more information about SDC and our programmes please visit www.sdc.org.vn

Closing date for applications 26 February 2008.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview. No return of application

and no telephone calls please.