Social Policy Officer (Local Governance and Decentralization)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories 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 to its staff. UNICEF has been operational in Cameroon since 1975, focusing on the rights of women and children, and provides financial and technical support across various sectors including health, education, and social inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Social Policy Officer (Local Governance and Decentralization) will work under the supervision of the CFO in Bertoua and with guidance from the Chief Social Policy. The role involves supporting the preparation, planning, execution, management, and implementation of various technical and administrative program tasks. The incumbent will specifically focus on decentralization, governance, accountability, and social protection within the context of the Social Inclusion Programme. This position requires an understanding of the complex humanitarian-development context in the Bertoua and Maroua Zone Offices, and the officer will be responsible for monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on program progress.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the planning and execution of decentralization policies and programs in alignment with UNICEF's objectives.
• Assist in the management and implementation of the Social Inclusion Programme, focusing on governance and accountability.
• Collaborate with local stakeholders to promote community engagement and participatory planning.
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, providing reports and recommendations for improvement.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building initiatives for local governance structures.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to promote social protection and public finance reforms.
• Conduct research and analysis on local governance issues and their impact on children and women.
• Prepare technical documents and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Represent UNICEF in meetings and forums related to local governance and decentralization.

Required Qualifications:

• A university degree in Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or a relevant technical field.
• A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience, particularly in decentralization policies and planning in Cameroon.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and communities.
• Familiarity with emergency contexts and community development programs is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, or Political Science. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of governance and social policy in the context of UNICEF's work.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience, particularly in the areas of decentralization policies and planning. Experience working in community development programs and familiarity with emergency contexts are considered strong assets. Candidates with experience in developing countries will be preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, along with a good knowledge of English. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language of the duty station is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Bertoua, Cameroon. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be prepared to undergo rigorous background checks and adhere to UNICEF's standards of conduct. The appointment is subject to medical clearance and may require compliance with vaccination requirements.