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 and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, aligning its strategic plan with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA is committed to addressing the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to sexual and reproductive health services and rights, and it seeks principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards.

Job Overview:
The SRH / Maternal Health Specialist position is crucial for the effective implementation of UNFPA's activities in sexual and reproductive health and emergency obstetric care within a state office environment. The role involves collaborating with state office staff, government entities, and implementing partners to plan, implement, and monitor programs aimed at improving sexual and reproductive health outcomes. The specialist will contribute to the formulation and execution of reproductive and maternal health programs, ensuring alignment with national development frameworks and joint programming initiatives. This position requires a proactive approach to addressing emerging issues in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), and the specialist will play a key role in fostering synergies among various program units, including Gender, Population and Data, and Humanitarian. The specialist will also be responsible for overseeing specific states, ensuring the completion of the UNFPA work plan, and reporting on program implementation and outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SRH / Maternal Health Specialist will be responsible for providing quality technical support to UNFPA implementing partners in project planning, implementation, and monitoring of program activities. This includes facilitating the work of consultants and experts, establishing cooperative relationships with government counterparts and civil society organizations, and addressing emerging SRHR issues. The specialist will contribute to achieving program results by supporting initiatives related to emergency obstetric and neonatal care, family planning, and the management of sexual and gender-based violence. Responsibilities also include reporting on project progress, conducting monitoring visits, and implementing effective knowledge management strategies. The specialist will work closely with country office staff to apply UNFPA business processes for managing implementing partners and will monitor financial implementation of SRH programs. Additionally, the specialist will support the development of national capacities in SRH, contribute to the technical review of laws and policies, and participate in communication and advocacy efforts to enhance UNFPA's mandate on SRHR.

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 in 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 also demonstrate expertise in program planning, design, monitoring, and evaluation, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data management and analysis.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (minimum Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Health, Medicine/Health Sciences, or other related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as the technical aspects of program implementation and evaluation.

Experience:
The position requires at least 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 designing and appraising proposals and liaising with relevant project partners. A strong track record of technical leadership and the ability to produce high-quality results are essential for success in this role.

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 beneficiaries in the context of sexual and reproductive health programs.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. 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 to applicants with disabilities upon request. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.