Gender Programme Specialist

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 large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, with a focus on building careers in a supportive and inclusive environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and has a strong presence in the Pacific region, working in 14 countries to address the needs of children and youth.

Job Overview:
The Gender Programme Specialist will play a pivotal role in coordinating the implementation of the Pacific Gender and ADAP Strategy under the supervision of the Deputy Representative – Programme. This position is crucial for ensuring that gender equality is integrated into all aspects of UNICEF's work in the Pacific. The successful candidate will lead efforts to align gender priorities with UNICEF’s five program outcome areas and the Gender Action Plan (GAP). Responsibilities include providing technical guidance, supporting assessments and evaluations, and addressing gender-specific needs in emergency contexts. The Specialist will also work on empowering adolescent girls and promoting their participation in decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Gender Programme Specialist will be responsible for providing technical and advisory support to senior management and participating in key leadership teams to ensure gender is included in programming. They will coordinate with regional advisors and manage the Gender Thematic Fund, monitor budget utilization for gender interventions, and lead reporting on gender components in funding proposals. The role involves supporting evidence-based program planning, integrating gender into strategic planning processes, and identifying impactful areas for gender programming. The Specialist will also track performance indicators related to gender mainstreaming, collaborate on programmatic results, and strengthen data systems for monitoring gender outcomes. Additionally, they will provide technical support to government and NGOs, advocate for gender equality commitments, and participate in emergency response efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or higher) in social sciences, public health, public policy, international development, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on gender programming expertise. Formal academic credentials in gender programming are required. The role demands a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in gender and development programming, including international work experience. Experience in managing gender-focused programs, emergency preparedness, and advocacy for gender equality is essential. Familiarity with regional inter-governmental bodies and previous work in the Pacific region is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or higher) in relevant fields such as sociology, demography, psychology, political science, social policy, economics, public health, or international development is required. Candidates should have clear evidence of expertise in gender programming, supported by formal academic credentials in this area.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in gender and development programming is required, with at least 2-3 years of international work experience. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing and managing results-based programs/projects related to gender and development, particularly in emergency contexts. Experience in advocacy and partnership management for gender equality is highly desirable, along with familiarity with regional political institutions and UN agencies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve working in emergency contexts and requires participation in humanitarian response efforts. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must adhere to UNICEF's standards of conduct.