Programme Analyst, Digitalisation and Innovation

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 territories, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, particularly for women, adolescents, and marginalized populations. UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled, aligning with the goals of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Programme Analyst, Digitalisation and Innovation plays a crucial role within the UNFPA South Africa Country Office, particularly within the programmes team. This position is responsible for integrating digital solutions, data innovation, and emerging technologies into UNFPA's Country Programme. The analyst will assist in identifying, developing, and scaling innovative approaches that align with the three Transformative Results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling the unmet need for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The role involves driving the adoption of innovation by managing the development and implementation of the office's digitalization strategy, researching and recommending technologies, and ensuring that solutions are inclusive and effective. The analyst will also build capacity among staff and partners, foster partnerships with the private sector, and contribute to resource mobilization efforts. Monitoring the impact of innovation projects and documenting lessons learned are critical functions of this role, which is essential for enhancing the efficiency and impact of initiatives in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Population and Development through digitalization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Analyst, Digitalisation and Innovation has several key responsibilities: A. Programme Management, Digitalization, and Innovation: Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring the Country Office's Digitalization and Innovation Strategy and annual work plans, ensuring alignment with national priorities and UNFPA's strategic plan. Identify, research, and recommend digital and innovative solutions that can enhance the efficiency, reach, and impact of UNFPA programmes. Support the integration of innovative methodologies such as human-centered design and agile development into programme design and implementation. Contribute to the analysis of political, social, and economic trends to inform programme formulation and advocacy efforts. Support the monitoring and evaluation of innovation projects, assisting in defining key performance indicators, collecting data, and synthesizing results. B. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: Provide technical and operational support to implementing partners and UNFPA programme teams on the application and scaling of digital and innovative solutions. Support capacity building initiatives for national partners and Country Office staff on innovation processes and digital literacy. Serve as a focal point for the innovation community of practice within the Country Office and promote knowledge sharing. C. Partnerships, Knowledge Management, and Advocacy: Assist in establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with various stakeholders to leverage resources for digitalization and innovation initiatives. Contribute to resource mobilization efforts by providing inputs for proposals and donor reports. Document and disseminate innovation results and success stories for internal and external communication. D. General Support: Stand-in for other Programme team members on selected functions as required and carry out any other duties as may be required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in fields such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Innovation Management, Development Studies, Public Health, Sociology, Economics, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field. Knowledge and experience in digital transformation, innovation management, or programme management in the public sector or development sector is desirable. Demonstrated knowledge in the design, testing, and deployment of digital solutions for social impact, particularly in sexual and reproductive health, is preferred. Familiarity with innovative methodologies such as human-centered design or agile project management is a strong asset. Strong research, analytical, and report writing skills are essential, along with familiarity with UN procedures and working methods.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Innovation Management, Development Studies, Public Health, Sociology, Economics, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field is required for this position.

Experience:
The position requires 0-2 years of demonstrable responsibility, knowledge, or experience in digital transformation, innovation management, or programme management within the public sector, non-governmental organizations, or the development sector. Candidates should have practical experience in designing and deploying digital solutions or emerging technologies for social impact, preferably in the context of sexual and reproductive health, gender, or population issues.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required. Professional working knowledge of one or more official South African languages is an advantage, and working knowledge of another UN Official Language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other 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 accommodation 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.