UNICEF Representative

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a global organization that works in some of the world’s toughest places to reach the most disadvantaged children. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on saving lives, defending rights, and helping children fulfill their potential. The organization is dedicated to building a better world for everyone and is committed to never giving up on children, regardless of the challenges faced.

Job Overview:
The UNICEF Representative serves as the accredited representative of UNICEF in Sudan, reporting to the Regional Director for general direction and oversight. This role involves establishing dialogue with the Government to develop a framework of cooperation and working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including national institutions, the UN Mission, and the UN Country team. The Representative is responsible for leading the Country Office, managing resources, and ensuring the delivery of quality results in line with UNICEF’s Strategic Plans and Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action. The position requires a strong commitment to upholding UNICEF’s Core Values and fostering an inclusive and nurturing work environment for all staff, enabling them to deliver high-quality results for children.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key functions and accountabilities of the Representative include leading and managing the Country Office, driving collaboration between program, communication, fundraising, and operations teams. Responsibilities also encompass monitoring and quality control of the Country Program, representation and advocacy at global and national levels, building alliances, resource mobilization, and UN System coordination. The Representative will lead private sector fundraising efforts, cultivate relationships with partners and donors, and ensure the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of staff and organizational assets. Additionally, the role involves leading innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in social sciences, international relations, government and public relations, public or social policy, sociology, social or community development, or related fields. A minimum of fifteen years of professional development experience is required, including intellectual and managerial leadership in development cooperation at the international level, with experience in developing countries and fragile contexts being essential. Relevant experience in any UN system agency or organization is considered an asset, particularly with human rights-based approaches. Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Arabic or another official UN language or local language of the duty station is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, international relations, public policy, or community development. This advanced degree is essential to ensure that the Representative has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding to navigate complex social and political environments effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of fifteen years in professional development roles that combine intellectual and managerial leadership. Candidates should have experience in development cooperation at the international level, with a strong emphasis on working in developing countries and fragile contexts. Experience in UN agencies or organizations, particularly in roles that involve human rights-based approaches, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of Arabic or another official UN language, as well as the local language of the duty station, is considered an asset. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as 'rotational,' meaning the incumbent is expected to rotate to another duty station upon completion of their tour of duty. The role is based in Port Sudan, which is classified as a non-family and emergency duty station. The office has approximately 380 staff and an annual budget of around USD 200 million. The position is not suitable for first-time representatives and is recommended for current D2 or D1 applicants with prior representative experience. The healthcare system in the area is inadequate, and medevacs are common. Additionally, the national economy is facing significant challenges, including rising debt and potential hyperinflation, which may impact the humanitarian situation in the region.