Programme Officer (HACT)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to promote the rights and well-being of every child. The organization focuses on reaching the most disadvantaged children in some of the world's toughest places, aiming to save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential. UNICEF Nigeria is one of the largest country offices globally, actively engaging in both humanitarian and development efforts to protect children's rights in partnership with various stakeholders including the government, civil society, and families. The organization is committed to ensuring that every child has a chance, and it operates with a mission to promote children's rights in all its programs, advocacy, and operations.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer (HACT) plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT) within UNICEF's programming activities. Reporting to the Monitoring Specialist, the officer will provide technical, operational, and administrative assistance throughout the program cycle. This includes researching, collecting, analyzing, and presenting technical information to facilitate the integration of HACT plans into programming activities. The officer will ensure adherence to HACT and organizational rules, regulations, and procedures, thereby contributing to effective program implementation and risk management related to cash transfers made to implementing partners. The role requires active participation in discussions and preparation of HACT-related materials, as well as maintaining effective partnerships with government counterparts and stakeholders to enhance capacity for HACT implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer (HACT) will be responsible for several key functions, including:

• Supporting HACT planning during the programming process by participating in discussions and synthesizing HACT-related information.
• Assisting in the implementation of HACT activities, serving as the reference person for HACT implementation, and conducting spot checks of implementing partners.
• Reviewing and utilizing HACT reports, including updating risk ratings of implementing partners and sharing assurance activity reports.
• Networking and building partnerships with government counterparts and stakeholders to promote HACT implementation.
• Engaging in innovation and knowledge management by capturing lessons learned from HACT implementation and contributing to capacity development strategies for both implementing partners and UNICEF staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in fields such as Development Studies, International Development, Business Administration, Financial Management, Economics, Auditing, or Project/Programme Management. A minimum of one year of professional experience in program development/management, financial planning, or related areas is required. Experience in a developing country and relevant experience in a UN system agency are considered assets. Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of another official UN language or the local language of the duty station is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in relevant fields such as Development Studies, International Development, Business Administration, Financial Management, Economics, Auditing, or Project/Programme Management. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of program implementation and financial management within the context of UNICEF's operations.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of professional experience in areas such as program development, financial planning, or management. Experience working in a developing country is viewed favorably, as is relevant experience within a UN system agency or organization. This level of experience is crucial for effectively navigating the challenges associated with program implementation and HACT activities.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is part of UNICEF's commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. UNICEF offers a range of benefits to its staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The role may involve collaboration with colleagues across multiple locations, and flexible working hours are encouraged to accommodate different time zones. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and adherence to UNICEF's standards of conduct is mandatory. The appointment is subject to medical clearance and may require compliance with vaccination requirements.