National Program Coordinator

National Program Coordinator

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

August 29, 2025October 13, 2025DakarSenegal
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, aligning its strategic goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, while addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on reproductive health services.

Job Overview:
The National Program Coordinator will play a crucial role in the execution and implementation of projects funded by Canada and Luxembourg, focusing on reproductive health and gender-based violence interventions in Senegal. This position requires a strategic approach to program management, ensuring that interventions align with national policies and the UNFPA Country Program. The coordinator will be responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs aimed at improving maternal health and family planning services, particularly for adolescents and young people. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community partners, to enhance service delivery and achieve program objectives. The coordinator will also be tasked with monitoring and reporting on program progress, ensuring that quality standards are met and that lessons learned are integrated into ongoing efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Program Coordinator will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:
  • Coordinating the implementation of Canadian and Luxembourg projects in alignment with the Country Program, providing strategic and technical support to enhance access to quality services for women and youth.
  • Ensuring the quality of program delivery by integrating best practices and establishing effective monitoring systems in collaboration with government counterparts and partners.
  • Analyzing the political, social, and economic environment related to sexual and reproductive health to identify opportunities for UNFPA intervention.
  • Monitoring financial execution of the program in accordance with UNFPA procedures and providing support to the Reproductive Health Unit.
  • Strengthening the program's monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure effective information management and reporting.
  • Supporting resource mobilization efforts and enhancing visibility of UNFPA and donor contributions.
  • Leading partnerships and advocating for improved project management and communication.
  • Documenting innovations and successful experiences to inform future programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in health or relevant social sciences, with a minimum of five years of experience in project and program development and management. Strong field experience is essential, particularly in results-based management and national health systems. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical, synthesis, and writing skills, as well as the ability to manage technical and financial aspects of integrated development programs. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with negotiation and resource mobilization capabilities, are also required. Proficiency in basic computer software such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, preferably a Master's degree, in health or relevant social sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of reproductive health and program management within the context of national health systems and policies.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in project and program development and management. This experience should include a focus on results-based management and the ability to align projects with national priorities. Proven experience in managing partnerships with government entities, civil society, and international organizations is highly desirable, as is a track record of leading teams to achieve measurable results.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, while proficiency in English is also required. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities. The organization is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment, training, and compensation, and emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce.
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