Story from a former JPO

Antonio Vigilante
Director, UNDP Liaison Office in Brussels

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

I was a JPO in the period 1981 to 1983. During that period, I first attended the Administrative Training Programme in New York, followed by a short period in Ethiopia, and then I was assigned to UNDP Bolivia.

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

To have become well acquainted with UN and UNDP policies and procedures which allowed me to assume smoothly a managerial position as Head of administration in Bolivia. I could refine my supervisory skills. The knowledge I acquired at that time is still helping me today, in many managerial functions. In addition, I could compare development reality on the ground with development theory and development cooperation literature and that by itself was a great learning opportunity!

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

I believe that the situation is different from country to country, but in general JPOs are seen today as valuable colleagues bringing in relevant knowledge for immediate application. The profile of the JPOs is higher today than it was 20 years ago; they are better prepared, more skilled and have already acquired relevant experience. As they normally require less training and induction, this shortens the learning period and allows for smooth and fast insertion in the UNDP office team. They often provide a professional and enthusiastic contribution to UNDP's policy work.

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

To undertake their job with a lot of enthusiasm and commitment, to look for both professional and human inner reward. U.N. development work is not just any job, it is a bit of a mission, a vocation. I would also recommend to take an active role within the office, looking out for opportunities to learn and contribute.