Technical Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to reproductive health services and the ability to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. The organization is committed to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, and it plays a crucial role in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• UNFPA's mission is driven by a focus on four interconnected outcomes: ending unmet needs for family planning, preventing maternal deaths, eliminating gender-based violence, and adapting to demographic changes through evidence-based policies. UNFPA is known for its principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to delivering high-impact results in a rapidly changing development landscape.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist position is integral to the successful implementation of a new project aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Vietnam, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). This project, which spans from 2024 to 2027, has a total budget of USD 5.75 million, with KOICA contributing USD 4.75 million and UNFPA contributing USD 1 million. The Technical Specialist will work closely with various ministries and stakeholders to enhance support for service delivery to women and girls affected by violence. The role involves providing high-level technical inputs, coordinating project planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, as well as engaging with donors and stakeholders. The Specialist will also be responsible for ensuring that project activities align with international standards and best practices in VAWG prevention and response, thereby contributing to the overall goal of strengthening a multi-sectoral response to gender-based violence at both national and subnational levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical advice by utilizing global experiences to identify policy shortcomings and guide advocacy efforts regarding VAWG.
• Reviewing project publications and analyzing their policy implications to inform scaling up efforts.
• Generating evidence on VAWG and ensuring that knowledge, lessons learned, and best practices are effectively managed and disseminated.
• Connecting the project with relevant international organizations to foster collaborations on VAWG prevention and response.
• Producing and advising on training materials for VAWG prevention and response, and supporting national capacity development.
• Supporting project management and liaising with KOICA for strategic planning and monitoring.
• Organizing donor visits, stakeholder consultations, and policy dialogues.
• Ensuring timely and results-based project reporting, including quarterly and annual reports.
• Leading knowledge documentation and dissemination of good practices to inform policy advocacy. 1
• Promoting gender-sensitive behavior in the workplace and with partners. 1
• Carrying out any other duties as requested by the Programme Specialist or Representative.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in gender studies, anthropology, feminist studies, sociology, human rights, law, cultural studies, international development, or related fields. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in VAWG prevention and response, with a minimum of 2 years at the international level. Field experience is strongly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Experience in project management and familiarity with the Vietnamese context is highly recommended. Knowledge of the UN system and inter-agency collaboration is an added advantage, along with proficiency in management and monitoring tools.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in gender studies, anthropology, feminist studies, sociology, human rights, law, cultural studies, international development, or any other fields directly related to Gender is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Technical Specialist has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively address issues related to gender-based violence and to implement the project successfully.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in the field of VAWG prevention and response, with at least 2 years of this experience at the international level. Candidates should have a proven track record of producing demonstrable results in their previous roles. Field experience is strongly desirable, as it provides practical insights into the challenges and dynamics of working in this area. Experience in project management is also essential, as the Technical Specialist will be responsible for overseeing various aspects of project implementation and ensuring alignment with international standards.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language of UNFPA. Additionally, a working knowledge of other official UN languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities, to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to support applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.