Programme Specialist (Health System Strengthening - HSS)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, with a focus on building careers in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist (Health System Strengthening - HSS) is responsible for providing technical, managerial, and operational leadership for in-country PHIT activities, which are part of a regional initiative aimed at strengthening health systems in Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga, and Tuvalu. This role involves acting as the primary in-country coordinator for UNICEF, ensuring effective implementation of PHIT activities while aligning with broader health and nutrition programming. The specialist will lead day-to-day operations, coordinate with local health ministries, and oversee project management units to ensure the successful delivery of health system strengthening initiatives. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges and proposing solutions, as well as monitoring and reporting on project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include leading the implementation of PHIT activities, ensuring alignment with regional frameworks and national health strategies. The specialist will coordinate with the UNICEF Health and Nutrition team, identify risks and bottlenecks, and monitor the quality and timeliness of services. They will provide technical guidance to government counterparts, contribute to the development of health frameworks, and ensure compliance with digital health standards. The role also involves monitoring program implementation, preparing reports for donors, and fostering partnerships with national stakeholders. Additionally, the specialist will support capacity development for team members and national counterparts, ensuring sustainable results in health system strengthening.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as public health, health systems, health informatics, or global health. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in health systems strengthening, digital health, or public health is required. Experience in developing countries, particularly in low-capacity settings, is essential. Familiarity with managing complex health programs and engaging with government counterparts is highly desirable. Relevant experience in a UN agency is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public health, health systems, health informatics, health research, global health, health policy, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the necessary interventions to strengthen them.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in program or project management related to health systems strengthening, digital health, or public health. Experience in developing countries, particularly in low-capacity settings, is essential, as is demonstrated experience in managing country-level implementation of complex health programs. Experience working in Small Island Developing States and in the Pacific region is highly desirable, along with effective engagement with government counterparts and stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language or the local language of the duty station is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves working in Fiji, with responsibilities that may require travel to other Pacific island nations. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must meet medical clearance and vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process. UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children.