Assistant Representative

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to advancing reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population and development issues. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, particularly those related to health and well-being, gender equality, and sustainable communities. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that every individual has access to the necessary resources and support to make informed choices about their reproductive health and to live a life free from violence and discrimination.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Representative plays a crucial role in the management and implementation of UNFPA's country programme, focusing on Population and Development, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, and Gender. This position requires a dynamic leader who can inspire and guide the programme team to translate global and regional goals into effective local solutions. The incumbent will be responsible for fostering partnerships with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and international organizations, to ensure that UNFPA's priorities are integrated into national strategies and frameworks. The role demands a proactive approach to addressing the evolving needs of the population, particularly in politically sensitive and volatile environments. The Assistant Representative will also contribute to resource mobilization efforts, ensuring that the necessary funding and support are secured for programme activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Representative will be responsible for conducting policy dialogues with government officials and development partners to align UNFPA's agenda with national priorities. This includes translating global strategies into localized advocacy efforts, creating evidence-based messages, and promoting UNFPA's goals while considering the political and social context. The incumbent will facilitate the design and implementation of country programmes, ensuring they are responsive to the needs identified in UNFPA's strategic priorities. Responsibilities also include monitoring programme outcomes, coordinating inputs from consultants and technical experts, and promoting knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the organization. The Assistant Representative will lead efforts in resource mobilization, identifying potential donors, preparing proposals, and supporting the government in coordinating assistance. Additionally, the role involves adapting programme management to respond to humanitarian situations and ensuring that displaced populations receive necessary support. The incumbent will actively participate in interagency groups, contribute to joint programming efforts, and leverage opportunities to enhance UNFPA's positioning in the development landscape.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in public health, medicine, sociology, demography, gender studies, international relations, international development, economics, public administration, management, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in development and population activities is required, with a strong emphasis on programme design, appraisal, and management. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a proven ability to lead teams effectively, refine programme designs with innovative strategies, and mobilize resources successfully. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential for fostering high-level partnerships and maintaining political relationships.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as public health, medicine, sociology, demography, gender studies, international relations, international development, economics, public administration, or management is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to address complex issues related to population and development, sexual and reproductive health, and gender equality.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in the field of development and population activities. Candidates should have a strong track record in programme design, management, and evaluation, as well as experience in leading teams to achieve significant results. Demonstrated ability to navigate complex political environments and engage with various stakeholders is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in other official UN languages, particularly French and Portuguese, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the role.

Additional Notes:
The Assistant Representative position is a full-time role within UNFPA, which emphasizes gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in its workforce. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, ethnic minority groups, Indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that supports a healthy work-life balance and promotes gender parity. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. Importantly, UNFPA does not charge any fees related to the application or recruitment process.