Case Study

Modernizing Jordan’s Public Sector Workforce

Transforming Jordan’s Public Sector through Targeted Reforms
Talent and Resource Management

The Challenge

Jordan’s public sector has faced persistent challenges with efficiency, staffing, and performance management, which has limited its ability to support private sector growth and build public trust. Weak oversight and outdated evaluation systems have contributed to these issues. As the country worked toward its Vision 2025, reforming public administration became critical. High youth unemployment and a disconnect between education outcomes and labor market needs further underscore the urgency of investing in human capital. To support these efforts, Chemonics partnered with the Government of Jordan to implement civil service reforms aimed at improving efficiency, fairness, and competitiveness across the public sector through technical assistance, institutional capacity building, and the design of performance and accountability systems.

Our Solution

Modernizing Systems to Improve Efficiency and Accountability

  • Performance Management Systems: Chemonics designed a self-assessment tool enabling government officials to evaluate their directorates’ capacity and training needs. We identified gaps in HR governance, staffing, and performance management, and supported the development of competitive, transparent recruitment and promotion policies that link incentives to competence and experience—reinforcing merit-based advancement.
  • Employee Training & Development: Chemonics helped 33 municipalities integrate with the Ministry of Local Administration’s Financial Management Information System, enhancing transparency and accountability.
  • Reform Advisory Services: In partnership with the Government of Jordan, Chemonics reformed Jordan Customs by implementing the Automated System for Customs Data to accelerate goods clearance. We also introduced the ‘Golden List’ Program to streamline compliance and improve trade security.
  • HR Analytics: Chemonics deployed a $6 million Human Capital Development and Management system for Jordan Customs, optimizing HR processes for 3,000 employees across 23 departments and 40 locations.
  • Regulatory Reform & Professional Education: Chemonics helped Jordan become the first country in the Middle East and Northern Africa region to mandate licensing for water and wastewater operators. We developed training curricula with a leading U.S. university and trained instructors in collaboration with the Water Authority of Jordan, making certification mandatory across all GOJ-owned utilities.

The Impact

Enhanced Governance, Transparency, and Institutional Performance

Chemonics contributed to a more efficient, accountable, and responsive public sector in Jordan. By helping government agencies modernize core systems, adopt performance-based management practices, and strengthen human capital, we enabled more transparent service delivery and better alignment with national development goals. Our work supported the shift toward data-driven decision-making, streamlined regulatory processes, and improved interagency coordination.

These reforms have not only enhanced institutional performance but also laid the groundwork for a more competitive public administration capable of supporting private sector growth and restoring public trust.