Story from a former JPO

Jan Mattsson
UNOPS Executive Director

When, where and in what area did you work as a JPO?

I was a UNIDO JPO in Colombo, Sri Lanka from the fall of 1982 to the spring of 1985: 30 great months!

Looking back at your time as a JPO, what do you consider to be your biggest achievement at the time?

I really felt it was possible to contribute to development in Sri Lanka and to the great UNDP/UNIDO team. I was proud to initiate and start up some energy projects, the first such projects in Sri Lanka, and also of my role in the Staff Council.

What role do you think JPOs should play in today's UNDP?

Contributing to development team work with specialized knowledge, enthusiasm and youthful energy.

What advice would you give to the newly-recruited JPOs?

Take full advantage of the experience; learn as much as you can about the country and about development. Don't hold back on your contributions. Have fun!