Regional Humanitarian Action and Resilience Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. It consolidates the efforts of four previously distinct parts of the UN system focused on gender issues. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between genders. The organization is committed to integrating gender equality into humanitarian action and resilience building, particularly in crisis situations. UN Women has a significant presence in various countries, working closely with national institutions and civil society organizations to promote gender equality and women's rights.

Job Overview:
The Regional Humanitarian Action and Resilience Specialist is responsible for leading UN Women’s humanitarian and disaster risk reduction (DRR) technical programming across the West and Central Africa region. This role involves significant independent judgment in designing regional strategies, providing technical guidance to Country Offices, and representing UN Women in inter-agency humanitarian coordination mechanisms. The incumbent will manage complex initiatives across approximately 24 countries, focusing on integrating gender equality into humanitarian responses and resilience building. The position requires a strong understanding of the humanitarian landscape, particularly the unique challenges faced by women and girls in crisis situations, and the ability to navigate politically sensitive contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of regional strategies and programmes on humanitarian action and DRR, ensuring alignment with UN Women’s Global Strategic Plan and regional priorities.
• Direct the implementation of UN Women’s Humanitarian Core Commitments across Country Offices, providing technical guidance and quality assurance.
• Oversee the formulation and review of regional programme documents, ensuring coherence with organizational priorities.
• Lead the design of humanitarian action and DRR programmes, including the development of knowledge products and policy recommendations.
• Provide technical support and capacity development to Country Office teams and partners, including training on gender-responsive humanitarian programming.
• Build and manage strategic partnerships with stakeholders and donors to advance gender and humanitarian action agendas.
• Lead resource mobilization strategies for humanitarian action and DRR, including identifying funding opportunities.
• Represent UN Women in inter-agency coordination on gender in humanitarian action, providing authoritative advice and strategic direction.
• Lead advocacy and communication efforts related to humanitarian action and DRR, developing strategic messages and materials. 1
• Manage knowledge sharing and institutional learning to enhance contributions of women in humanitarian planning processes.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in human rights, gender, international relations, international development, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or other social sciences.
• A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Project/programme management certification (e.g., PMP®, PRINCE2®, MSP®) is an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of gender equality, protection, humanitarian action, and DRR policies and practices.
• Proven networking skills and ability to engage with donors and stakeholders effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as human rights, gender studies, international relations, or social sciences. A first-level university degree combined with additional qualifying experience may also be considered. Certifications in project or programme management are advantageous.

Experience:
At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in designing and managing humanitarian or DRR programmes, particularly focusing on gender and protection in emergencies. Experience in inter-agency coordination, policy analysis, and strategic planning is required. Familiarity with working in the region and with UN agencies is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English (oral and written) is required. Knowledge of other UN official languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves significant travel across the West and Central Africa region. The role requires a high level of engagement with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations. UN Women promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and adheres to a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks.