Child Protection Officer – Knowledge Management (Prevention of Harmful Practices)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the children it serves.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Officer – Knowledge Management (Prevention of Harmful Practices) position is crucial for advancing UNICEF's global leadership in ending harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). The role is based in the Nairobi Centre of Excellence, which plays a significant role in providing technical assistance to governments and partners. The officer will be responsible for capturing and sharing evidence, lessons learned, and innovative approaches across countries and partners, thereby enhancing visibility and impact during a critical time for donor engagement and global advocacy. The position involves contributing to high-level meetings, creating knowledge products, driving communications and partnerships, and synthesizing data to influence policy outcomes, ultimately transforming knowledge into action for measurable change in children's lives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Child Protection Officer include:

• Programme Support & Strategic Coordination: Contributing to high-level meetings, reports, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration.
• Global Knowledge Management: Leading the creation and dissemination of knowledge products, toolkits, and learning platforms to enhance UNICEF's impact.
• Advocacy, Visibility & Partnerships: Driving communications, organizing events, and building partnerships to amplify UNICEF's global voice.
• Evidence Uptake & Policy Outcomes: Synthesizing data and research to influence policy and accelerate progress towards eliminating harmful practices.
• Collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure effective knowledge sharing and advocacy efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor or equivalent degree in fields such as International Business Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Gender Studies, or related areas. Strong capabilities in knowledge management, strategic communications, and partnership building are essential. Candidates should demonstrate skills in results reporting, stakeholder management, and possess solid analytical and writing abilities. Proficiency with digital collaboration and knowledge-sharing tools is also required, along with the ability to engage effectively with diverse partners.

Educational Background:
A minimum educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (First Level University Degree) in relevant fields such as International Business Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Gender Studies, or similar disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international development and child protection issues.

Experience:
At least 2 years of relevant work experience in international development cooperation, human rights, external relations, or public affairs is required. Experience in child protection or related thematic areas, including programme or project development and management within a UN agency or an international development organization, is highly desirable. Prior experience supporting coordination or planning functions, or providing assistance within an executive office environment, is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered a desirable asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of UNICEF's commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF promotes the protection and safeguarding of all children and adheres to strict policies against discrimination and misconduct. Candidates may be required to undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and selected candidates must meet medical clearance and inoculation requirements. The role may involve collaboration across multiple locations, encouraging flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones while prioritizing staff wellbeing.