Consultor/a para la formulación de la política local de primera infancia

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established to advocate for the protection of children's rights globally, operates in numerous countries, including Ecuador. The organization focuses on ensuring that every child, especially the most disadvantaged, has access to their rights and opportunities for development. UNICEF promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce and is committed to safeguarding children and preventing abuse.

Job Overview:
The position involves supporting the formulation of a local policy for early childhood in the municipal government of Cuenca, Ecuador. The consultant will utilize a participatory methodology to ensure that the policy aligns with local, national, and international frameworks. The role emphasizes the importance of early childhood development and aims to create a strategic instrument that guides the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services for children aged zero to five. The consultant will work closely with various municipal departments and stakeholders to gather information, conduct workshops, and develop a comprehensive policy that addresses the needs of vulnerable children in the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and present a work plan and timeline for the project, which will be agreed upon with the municipal government team.
• Coordinate activities with personnel from various municipal departments, including Social Development, Gender Coordination, and International Relations.
• Review relevant documentation, including national policies and local assessments, to inform the situation analysis of early childhood in Cuenca.
• Conduct workshops and focus groups with key stakeholders to gather insights and data for the policy formulation.
• Identify and map key actors involved in early childhood issues to ensure comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
• Facilitate policy formulation workshops with municipal councils and other relevant actors.
• Develop a strategy for the approval, operationalization, monitoring, and evaluation of the early childhood policy.
• Provide regular progress reports to the municipal government and UNICEF, ensuring transparency and collaboration throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
The consultant must have proven experience in formulating local public policies related to early childhood, with a focus on human rights, gender, and intercultural approaches. A strong understanding of the institutional framework of municipal governments and the system for the protection of children's rights is essential. The candidate should demonstrate experience in strategic planning, designing objectives, and developing indicators for monitoring and evaluation. Experience in coordinating teams and facilitating participatory processes is highly valued.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a master's degree in public policy, planning, economics, social development, or related fields is required. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in policy analysis and development, particularly in the context of early childhood.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in public policy formulation, preferably at the local level. Experience in strategic planning and participatory processes is crucial, as is familiarity with the local context of Cuenca and its specific challenges regarding early childhood.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, given the local context and the need for effective communication with stakeholders. Knowledge of indigenous languages or English may be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is open to Ecuadorian citizens or residents with valid work visas and RUC. The contract duration and specific compensation details are not mentioned, but the consultant will be expected to submit a technical and financial proposal as part of the application process. The position emphasizes the importance of collaboration with UNICEF and adherence to their standards and principles regarding child protection and safeguarding.