SRH / Maternal Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).

Job Overview:
The SRH / Maternal Health Specialist position is crucial for the effective implementation of UNFPA's activities in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and emergency obstetric care within the state office environment. The specialist will work closely with state office staff, government entities, and implementing partners to plan, implement, and monitor SRH programs. This role involves contributing to the formulation and execution of reproductive and maternal health programs, ensuring alignment with national development frameworks, and fostering collaboration among various program units. The specialist will oversee specific states, ensuring that SRH initiatives are effectively managed and that the needs of marginalized groups are addressed. The position requires a proactive approach to building relationships with stakeholders and ensuring that UNFPA's mandate is met through high-quality program delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SRH / Maternal Health Specialist will be responsible for providing quality technical support to UNFPA's implementing partners in project planning, implementation, and monitoring of program activities. Key duties include facilitating the work of consultants and experts, establishing cooperative relationships with government counterparts and civil society organizations, and addressing emerging issues related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The specialist will contribute to achieving program results by focusing on emergency obstetric and neonatal care, engaging men and boys, and addressing the needs of marginalized groups. Responsibilities also include designing and monitoring program initiatives, reporting on project progress, implementing knowledge management strategies, and ensuring compliance with UNFPA business processes. The specialist will conduct site visits to assess project quality, support national capacity development in SRH, and participate in advocacy and resource mobilization efforts. Additionally, the specialist will ensure emergency preparedness and collaborate with the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) team to integrate services effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (minimum Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Health, Medicine/Health Sciences, or related disciplines. They should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in sexual and reproductive and maternal health, including program/project management and experience with large multi-sector projects. Knowledge of the national health system, quality of care, human rights in health services, and culturally sensitive programming is essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in program planning, design, monitoring, and evaluation, along with strong technical leadership skills and proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data management.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Health, Medicine/Health Sciences, or other related fields is required for this position. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and the necessary frameworks for effective program implementation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience in the field of sexual and reproductive and maternal health at the national level. Candidates should have experience in program/project management, including managing large multi-sector projects and liaising with relevant partners. A strong understanding of the national health system and experience in culturally sensitive programming are also important.

Languages:
Fluency and proficiency in English and Arabic are required for this position. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and communities in the regions covered by the role.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. UNFPA emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates.