Adolescent and Youth Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, 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 sexual and reproductive health services, and that their rights are respected. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's mission is driven by a commitment to human rights and the empowerment of women and young people, and it emphasizes the importance of ethical staff who embody these values and work towards sustainable development goals.

Job Overview:
The Adolescent and Youth Programme Coordinator will play a pivotal role in advancing UNFPA's agenda for adolescents and youth in Laos, particularly focusing on issues such as adolescent pregnancy, youth empowerment, and harmful practices like Child, Early and Forced Marriages (CEFM). This position requires a strategic approach to policy dialogue and advocacy, ensuring that youth issues are prioritized in national policies and development plans. The coordinator will be responsible for enhancing UNFPA's visibility and leadership in adolescent and youth programming, fostering partnerships with government entities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The role also involves managing the implementation of the TUSIP CEFM programme, ensuring alignment with government priorities and UNFPA policies, and overseeing the financial and programmatic aspects of the AY portfolio. The coordinator will be expected to collect and analyze data, contribute to knowledge-sharing platforms, and support capacity-building initiatives for implementing partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support evidence-based policy dialogue with parliamentarians on adolescent and youth issues, including adolescent pregnancy and harmful practices.
• Provide substantive policy inputs on Adolescents and Youth (AY) and CEFM to UN coordination processes.
• Enhance UNFPA's leadership and visibility in adolescent and youth development.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with government counterparts and development partners.
• Lead the preparation of donor reports and funding proposals for the AY portfolio.
• Collect, analyze, and synthesize information on good practices related to AY programming.
• Manage and coordinate the implementation of the TUSIP CEFM programme.
• Oversee the drafting of annual work plans and budgets for the AY Programme.
• Ensure results are achieved by applying UNFPA policies and establishing robust monitoring mechanisms. 1
• Support capacity building and training needs of implementing partners. 1
• Lead advocacy and resource mobilization efforts for expanding the CEFM and AY portfolio.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with a proven ability to manage complex projects and foster partnerships. They should demonstrate a commitment to UNFPA's mission and values, particularly in relation to human rights and gender equality. Experience in policy advocacy, resource mobilization, and program management is essential. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Familiarity with the socio-economic context of Laos and the challenges faced by adolescents and youth is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in public health, social sciences, international development, or a related field is required. Candidates with a bachelor's degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. Additional training or certifications in project management, monitoring and evaluation, or related areas will be an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, policy advocacy, or related fields is required. Experience working with UN agencies, government bodies, or NGOs in the area of adolescent and youth development is highly desirable. Proven experience in resource mobilization and partnership building is essential, along with a track record of successful project implementation and management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Lao or other local languages is an asset and will be considered a plus, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Vientiane, Laos, and may require travel to rural areas where infrastructure and access to services may be limited. The living conditions in Vientiane are relatively good, but candidates should be prepared to adapt to the tropical climate and occasional challenges in health care access. The role is full-time, and candidates should be aware of the potential need for Covid-19 vaccinations as per UNFPA policies. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified professionals regardless of gender, race, or other protected characteristics.