Maternal Health and Nutrition Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, is dedicated to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established as a part of the United Nations system, UNFPA operates globally with a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, and to support the health and well-being of women and girls. The organization focuses on three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's health and rights, and it calls for a collaborative effort from member states and organizations to build a better future. UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce committed to upholding human rights and ethical standards in their work.

Job Overview:
The Maternal Health and Nutrition Programme Specialist will play a crucial role in leading the Maternal and Reproductive Health (MRH) programme within UNFPA Afghanistan. This position is designed for a highly experienced professional who will provide strategic leadership and managerial oversight for maternal health interventions at both national and sub-national levels. The Specialist will be responsible for the design, implementation, and monitoring of integrated maternal health and nutrition programmes, ensuring they align with national health strategies and UNFPA's strategic goals. The role also involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, government counterparts, and partners, to enhance the effectiveness of maternal health services in Afghanistan, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Specialist will lead initiatives supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ensuring high-quality implementation and strategic alignment with UNFPA's national priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for the Maternal and Reproductive Health (MRH) programme, acting as the technical focal point and head of the MRH thematic portfolio.
• Lead the design, implementation, coordination, and monitoring of integrated maternal health and nutrition programmes within humanitarian and development contexts.
• Ensure alignment of MRH interventions with national health strategies and UNFPA's Strategic Plan.
• Oversee the implementation of the Gates Foundation-supported maternal health interventions in the southern region, ensuring effective delivery and compliance with donor requirements.
• Strengthen the integration of maternal nutrition interventions within reproductive health services.
• Support the development and operationalization of national guidelines and strategies related to maternal health and nutrition.
• Lead coordination efforts with UN agencies, government ministries, donors, and partners to harmonize maternal health interventions.
• Represent UNFPA in national and sub-national coordination platforms.
• Oversee monitoring and evaluation of MRH programmes, ensuring quality assurance and evidence-based decision-making. 1
• Lead capacity-building initiatives for UNFPA staff and health service providers. 1
• Conduct needs assessments and situational analyses related to maternal health and nutrition programming. 1
• Perform any other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in Medicine, Nutrition, or Public Health. A first-level university degree combined with seven additional years of qualifying experience in strategic planning and management of maternal nutrition interventions may also be considered. Applicants should have at least five years of relevant experience, demonstrating networking and collaboration with key development partners. Knowledge of UN/UNFPA humanitarian and development programming principles, including a human rights-based approach and gender equality, is essential. Strong communication, facilitation, and negotiation skills are required, along with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Practical experience in training staff and partners in maternal nutrition is preferred.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in Medicine, Nutrition, or Public Health is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with extensive experience in relevant fields may be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in public health principles, maternal health, and nutrition.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of qualifying experience in maternal health and nutrition programming. Candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least seven additional years of relevant experience. Experience in strategic planning and management of maternal nutrition interventions, as well as immunization response, is essential. Demonstrated experience in working with UN agencies or similar organizations is an asset, along with a proven track record of successful collaboration with stakeholders in the health sector.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory. Additionally, fluency in Dari and/or Pashto is required, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the local context and with stakeholders in Afghanistan.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Kabul, Afghanistan. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.