Local Consultancy: Gender and Strategic Partnerships Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results by 2030: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to delivering high-impact results.

Job Overview:
The Gender and Strategic Partnerships Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting UNFPA South Africa's strategic engagement in national and global gender platforms, particularly focusing on South Africa's roles in the G20 and W20, as well as partnerships with the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Response Fund. The consultant will provide high-level technical and coordination support to advance policy, advocacy, and partnership activities that align with the UNFPA Strategic Plan and the Country Programme Document (CPD). This position requires a deep understanding of gender dynamics, advocacy strategies, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to promote gender equality and justice. The consultant will work closely with government departments, civil society, and private sector partners to ensure that sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), GBVF, and gender justice are integrated into G20/W20 processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's key responsibilities will include supporting South Africa's G20 Presidency by providing technical input and coordination on gender-related priorities such as equality, care economy, and financial inclusion. This involves drafting national position papers, briefing notes, advocacy products, and background materials that align with G20/W20 themes. The consultant will engage with key government departments, civil society, and W20 partners to ensure the integration of SRHR, GBVF, and gender justice in G20/W20 processes. Additionally, the consultant will coordinate UNFPA's participation in relevant side events, policy dialogues, and multilateral forums. In collaboration with the GBVF Response Fund Secretariat, the consultant will provide technical support for joint planning, program review, and evidence-based investment case development. The consultant will also document key achievements, lessons learned, and policy implications for scale-up and advocacy, while preparing thematic background papers and communication content as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or above) in Gender and Development Studies, Health Economics, or a related field. They should have at least 6 to 8 years of progressively responsible experience in public health, gender, demography, international development, project management, or related fields. Experience working collaboratively with government, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector is essential. Candidates must demonstrate excellent technical drafting, report writing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with team members to achieve results, cultivate strategic partnerships, and maintain political relations for program development is required. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly in current office software applications, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master’s or above) in Gender and Development Studies, Health Economics, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively engage in gender-related policy and advocacy work.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 6 to 8 years of relevant progressively responsible experience in fields such as public health, gender, demography, international development, and project management. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of gender dynamics and the ability to navigate various stakeholder environments effectively.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the role. Additional languages may be beneficial, particularly those relevant to South Africa's diverse population and the international community engaged in gender issues.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 4 months, from 18 August to 17 December 202

• The consultant will be based in the UNFPA Pretoria Country Office, with flexibility for remote work. However, the consultant may be required to travel to attend G20-related meetings. The consultant will provide monthly activity plans and reports, culminating in a comprehensive report at the end of the assignment. UNFPA will provide access to initial background documentation and relevant partner contact details, but the consultant must have their own laptop and internet connectivity. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.