Programme Specialist (Beneficiary Data)

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 employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist (Beneficiary Data) will work under the guidance of the Chief Social Policy and closely coordinate with the Deputy Representative Programs. This role is crucial for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and protection of data within the HOPE system, which supports cash programs. The incumbent will be responsible for managing personal data services, developing standard operating procedures for data collection, and ensuring compliance with UNICEF's data protection policies. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including Programme and Operations Managers, Budget Specialists, and Implementing Partnership Management Specialists, to deliver timely beneficiary data management services. The role also involves overseeing the rollout of biometric registration for payment authentication and building the capacity of the Beneficiary Data Officer and other focal persons in data management responsibilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Personal Data Services Management: Provide guidance for the use of the HOPE system, develop SOPs for data collection, consolidate data from various sources, oversee personal data use for payment delivery, and ensure data quality and protection standards.
• Data Management Representation: Provide input to the Social Policy Chief, represent personal data management within SSCO, collaborate with government ministries, and engage in donor briefings.
• Reporting and Third-Party Monitoring: Provide technical oversight on monitoring terms of reference, draft monitoring reports, and support program monitoring as needed.
• Data Protection Standards: Ensure alignment with UNICEF's Data Protection Policy, conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments, train partners on data protection principles, and manage Non-Disclosure Agreements with partners.

Required Qualifications:
Minimum requirements include a Master’s degree in Data Science, Economics, Social Science, or a related field. A Bachelor's degree with relevant certifications and work experience may also be considered. Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in personal data or humanitarian program/project management, including experience in emergency contexts. Skills in beneficiary data systems for humanitarian cash transfers, project management methodologies, and collaboration across functions are essential. Familiarity with South Sudan is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Data Science, Economics, Social Science, or a related field. A Bachelor's degree complemented by relevant industry certifications and work experience may be accepted as an alternative qualification.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional work experience in personal data management or humanitarian program/project management, with a preference for candidates who have experience in emergency contexts. Experience working with UN agencies or NGOs, particularly UNICEF, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to UNICEF's policies on safeguarding and child protection. Candidates must undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. The role may require medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements. UNICEF promotes diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process.