Planning and Monitoring Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a global organization that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. Established in 1946, UNICEF is dedicated to promoting the rights of every child, which is not just a job but a calling. The organization is committed to providing diverse opportunities for professional and personal development for its staff, fostering a culture of belonging and growth. UNICEF offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, reflecting its commitment to its employees and the communities they serve. The organization emphasizes the importance of its mission and the impact it has on children's lives worldwide, as highlighted in their promotional materials and videos.

Job Overview:
The Planning and Monitoring Specialist position is crucial for the effective planning, design, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and administration of specific projects within a major program at UNICEF. This role is guided by the Chief Field Office and involves a second reporting line to the Monitoring Manager in Kabul. The specialist will be responsible for ensuring that UNICEF's priorities are met through timely and evidence-based multisectoral integrated program planning and monitoring, particularly in urgent humanitarian contexts. The position requires the specialist to supervise and manage a team of Planning and Monitoring Officers, an Emergency Officer, a Programme Associate, and other staff as assigned. The specialist will set standards for program performance planning and monitoring, ensuring an integrated approach to humanitarian action and basic human needs. They will lead the analysis of program monitoring data to facilitate necessary adjustments aimed at improving program quality and support coordination with other UN agencies to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, the specialist will assist in building national capacities for monitoring and support innovation and knowledge management by documenting lessons learned and data use cases in programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage program planning, implementation, and monitoring processes to ensure effective program delivery.
• Establish knowledge management systems for programs to facilitate learning and improvement.
• Ensure the optimal use of program funds through effective budget management and monitoring.
• Conduct program monitoring and evaluations to assess effectiveness and impact.
• Implement a rights-based and results-based program management approach to enhance accountability and transparency.
• Build national and local capacities for sustainability in program implementation.
• Advocate for children's rights at national, regional, community, and family levels.
• Represent UNICEF in partnerships, coordination, and collaboration with stakeholders.
• Provide efficient and effective supervision of team members and program staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Information Management, Engineering, or a relevant technical field. Alternatively, a first university degree in a relevant field combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience, particularly in multi-sectoral programming, evidence-based planning, program monitoring, and reporting. Familiarity with UNICEF's program management systems and procedures is essential, along with strong analytical skills and experience in data management and visualization. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders are also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Information Management, Engineering, or another relevant technical field is required. A first university degree in a relevant field combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant professional work experience, with hands-on experience in supporting multi-sectoral programming and approaches that enhance efficiency. Experience in evidence-based planning, program monitoring, and reporting is crucial, along with demonstrable experience in using data for programming and understanding of key performance indicators related to budget management and assurance activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Dari, Pashto, and Uzbeki is advantageous, as well as familiarity with other UN languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to UNICEF's policies and procedures, including medical clearance and background checks. The organization promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented groups. UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information for background checks, and reasonable accommodations will be made for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.