National Programme Coordinator

Introduction

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is committed to promoting social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights, based on its founding belief that peace is essential to prosperity. The ILO advocates for decent work and improved working conditions, contributing to lasting peace, progress, and economic growth. Through its tripartite structure, the ILO works with governments, employers, and workers to uphold rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection, and foster dialogue on work-related issues.

The ILO in Bangladesh contributes to the implementation of the Strategic Programme Framework and the Organization’s biennial programme and budget. Within this context, the ILO Country Office implements the Decent Work Country Programme for Bangladesh.

As part of its portfolio, the ILO, in collaboration with UN partners, is implementing a project focused on the reintegration of returning refugees. The project aims to strengthen the resilience of returnee migrant workers to facilitate their effective reintegration into the economy and society. The National Programme Coordinator will lead the implementation and management of this initiative.

Reporting and Supervision

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Director of the ILO Country Office for Bangladesh, the National Programme Coordinator will report to the Head of Programme and collaborate with the designated Programme Officer. Technical guidance will be provided by the Labour Migration Specialist at DWT/HQ and other relevant specialists. The incumbent will work closely with existing labour migration projects in Bangladesh and liaise with other UN agencies. The position will be based at the migration sub-office within the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWE), Dhaka.

Description of Duties

⦁    Ensure timely and effective planning, implementation, and reporting of project activities in line with ILO policies, strategies, and procedures.
⦁    Support project partners in advancing labour migration governance and reintegration, providing operational frameworks and technical assistance as needed.
⦁    Coordinate with implementing agencies to design terms of reference for activities such as capacity building workshops, direct assistance, and research. Manage contracts and ensure timely, high-quality deliverables.
⦁    Assist in drafting issue papers, position statements, reports, and talking points. Maintain programme records and support the preparation of project reports.
⦁    Prepare briefs, background materials, budget estimates, and expenditure forecasts. Monitor resource use and recommend adjustments to ensure efficient implementation.
⦁    Organize and coordinate events including workshops, trainings, and seminars.
⦁    Attend and represent the project at key events related to reintegration, legal/policy frameworks, and other relevant topics. Support the dissemination of project outcomes.
⦁    Strengthen partnerships with stakeholders including government agencies, INGOs, national/local NGOs, trade unions, academia, and the private sector.
⦁    Supervise the programme assistant and ensure adherence to ILO administrative and financial procedures.
⦁    Conduct field visits and supervise support staff and project activities.
⦁    Perform other duties as assigned by the line manager

Required qualifications

Education

University degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related fields.
 

Experience

⦁    Minimum 3 years of experience in programme implementation, particularly in areas such as labour migration, skills development, reintegration, labour market information systems, and communication.
⦁    Experience in Results-Based Management (RBM), monitoring and evaluation, and capacity building at the national level.

Languages

Excellent command of both Bangla and English.
 

Knowledge and Competencies

Technical and Behavioural Skills:

⦁    Strong knowledge of programme design, budgeting, administration, and evaluation.
⦁    Understanding of ILO and UN development mandates, particularly related to labour standards and social protection.
⦁    Familiarity with financial and administrative regulations.
⦁    Analytical and drafting skills; effective written and verbal communication.
⦁    Organizational and negotiation skills; ability to work independently and within teams.
⦁    Ability to interact with tact and diplomacy; capable of supervising staff.
⦁    Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe Reader) and other relevant software.

Additional Competencies:

⦁    Proven ability to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders including worker and employer organizations, government bodies, NGOs, and donors.
⦁    Experience in rights-based programming, stakeholder engagement, and workplace cooperation.
⦁    Strong orientation in data management and knowledge sharing.
⦁    Capacity building and training skills.
⦁    Prior experience in human rights, labour rights, or socio-economic development is a plus.
⦁    Ability to work in a multicultural environment and uphold gender-sensitive, inclusive attitudes.
⦁    Sound decision-making aligned with ILO values.