Data and Information Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child. With a mission to ensure that every child survives, learns, and thrives, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries and territories, including 14 Pacific Island nations. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, communities, and partners to implement programs that address the needs of the most disadvantaged children. In the Pacific region, UNICEF focuses on education, health, nutrition, and protection, striving to create inclusive and equitable systems that cater to the unique challenges faced by children in these island nations.

Job Overview:
The Data and Information Management Specialist position at UNICEF Pacific is crucial for enhancing the organization's capacity to manage and utilize data effectively. The role involves designing and implementing a robust SharePoint structure for data management, ensuring that all educational datasets are accurately maintained and accessible. The specialist will be responsible for developing standard operating procedures for file management and knowledge sharing, conducting quality checks on datasets, and training colleagues on best practices in data stewardship. This position also entails supporting program planning and reporting by maintaining workplan trackers, preparing annual results reports, and developing indicator frameworks to monitor program performance. The specialist will produce evidence briefs and visual summaries to communicate key findings and support advocacy efforts, while also collaborating closely with Ministries of Education to strengthen data use and reporting practices. The role emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive approaches that incorporate Pacific values and languages, ensuring that all products and processes are inclusive and equitable.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and implement a SharePoint structure with clear folders, naming conventions, permissions, and version control.
• Draft and roll out a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for file management and knowledge sharing.
• Establish and maintain a repository of education datasets, including metadata, codebooks, and update cycles.
• Conduct regular quality checks on datasets to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with UNICEF standards.
• Train colleagues on SharePoint use and data stewardship practices.
• Maintain the master Excel workplan tracker and update UNICEF’s online workplan system.
• Conduct consistency checks across workplans, grant agreements, HR plans, and supply plans.
• Support the preparation of annual results reporting with accurate data and aligned narratives.
• Develop and update indicator frameworks to track program performance. 1
• Consolidate inputs from multiple countries and partners into clear, evidence-based reporting. 1
• Produce short evidence briefs, dashboards, and case studies tailored to program reviews and donor reporting. 1
• Design visual summaries to highlight key results and trends. 1
• Co-develop human-centered stories that celebrate education successes and challenges. 1
• Work closely with Ministries of Education to co-produce and validate datasets and evidence products. 1
• Provide hands-on support and training for UNICEF colleagues and ministry focal points on data use and reporting tools. 1
• Facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions across UNICEF Pacific offices. 1
• Ensure all products and processes are culturally sensitive and inclusive of Pacific languages and values. 1
• Highlight equity-focused analysis and integrate climate vulnerabilities into evidence products and education planning.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Data and Information Management Specialist position should possess strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of data management principles. Proficiency in SharePoint, Excel, and data visualization tools such as Power BI is essential. The candidate should demonstrate experience in developing standard operating procedures for data management and have a solid background in educational data analysis. Familiarity with the Pacific context and cultural sensitivity is highly valued, as is the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for producing evidence briefs and engaging with partners effectively. The candidate should also exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's values of care, respect, integrity, trust, accountability, and sustainability.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as data management, education, social sciences, or a related discipline is required. A master's degree is preferred and may be advantageous for candidates seeking to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in data analysis and program management. Additional certifications in data management or analysis would be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in data management, program planning, and reporting, preferably within an international development context. Experience working with educational data and familiarity with the Pacific region's challenges and opportunities are highly desirable. The ability to manage multiple tasks and work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and with external partners. Knowledge of Pacific languages is considered an asset and would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Suva, Fiji, and may require occasional travel to other Pacific Island countries. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to adapt to the unique cultural and environmental conditions of the region. UNICEF offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.