Jovana Mehandzic Djurdjic

Accomplished and results-oriented international development professional with twenty years of experience in governance, strategic partnerships, and sustainable development. Quick on-the-job learner, adept at advancing strategic goals through inclusive, locally tailored partnerships, innovative financing strategies, and effective resource mobilization. Proven ability to support and advise senior organizational leadership on strategic partnerships, pooled funds management, risk mitigation, and due diligence. Brings deep knowledge of Serbia’s political, economic, and social context, with a strong track record of engaging governments, civil society, the private sector, IFIs, and non-traditional partners to strengthen strategic goals financing and implementation. Highly skilled in designing joint programmes and strategies, pooling resources, oversight of programme implementation, and knowledge management. Distinctly professional and committed, with strong analytical capabilities and a data-driven approach to sustainable development. Demonstrates excellence in planning and organizing with an ability to anticipate risks, set clear priorities, and deliver results under pressure. Communicates with clarity and purpose, adapting messages to diverse audiences and using digital tools to enhance impact. A collaborative team player who values inclusive decision-making, embraces diverse perspectives, and fosters trust-based partnerships to achieve shared goals. Brings a broad set of contacts across public, private and civic sectors.

• Expertise in International Development: Extensive knowledge of international development theory and practice, including strategic planning, program implementation, and resource mobilization to advance strategic goals, aligning well with the UNCT’s work on achieving sustainable development goals.
• Deep Understanding of Serbia and the Western Balkans: Specialized knowledge of the political, economic, and social dynamics of Serbia and the Western Balkans region, with a focus on key growth factors, challenges, and opportunities, crucial for advising on effective partnership strategies and fostering collaborations to address Serbia's development priorities.
• Regulatory and Program Knowledge: Strong understanding of Serbian and U.S. Government policies and regulations regarding assistance programs and beyond. Navigates complex requirements of various partnerships, ensuring compliance with regulations while promoting effective resource mobilization and financing mechanisms.
• Innovative Development Practices: Applies knowledge of innovative practices such as co-creation, locally-led development, and 'thinking and working politically', which are central to partnership strategies and resource mobilization efforts to achieve strategic goals.
• Cross-Sectoral Expertise: A comprehensive understanding of institutional relationships and cross-sectoral dynamics in Serbia's political and economic landscape, gained through leadership roles in both the development sector and public office, critical for developing inclusive partnerships and identifying risks and opportunities for strategic priorities financing.
• Project Design and Implementation: Extensive experience designing, managing and monitoring complex projects across areas relevant to SDG implementation across the Western Balkans, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and effective execution.
• Capacity Building and Mentorship: Committed to building local capacity through mentorship and coaching, with a focus on understanding and adhering to relevant rules and regulations, with the goal of strengthening the capacity of local partners and implementing effective resource mobilization strategies.

• Date of birth: 04/14/78
• Nationality: Serbian
• Marital status: Married, mother of one

Project Management FAC-COR