Consultant for WASH Hub Strategy

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established over 70 years ago, operates in more than 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 is known for its passionate culture and commitment to innovation, particularly through initiatives like the Sustainable WASH Innovation Hub, which focuses on advancing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions globally.

Job Overview:
The Consultant will play a crucial role in the WASH Hub by developing a strategic plan that addresses current WASH challenges and the innovation ecosystem. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including academia, development partners, and government entities, to navigate the Hub's evolution and enhance its credibility and influence. The consultant will be responsible for delivering a comprehensive strategic plan that includes analytical and diagnostic deliverables, strategic visioning, and operational models, all aimed at improving WASH access and sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough analyses of current WASH challenges and the innovation ecosystem.
• Develop a strategic vision for the WASH Hub that aligns with UNICEF's goals.
• Create a detailed strategic plan that outlines actionable steps for the Hub's development.
• Design an operational model that includes financing and enabling environment requirements.
• Collaborate with WASH Hub colleagues and external stakeholders to gather insights and feedback.
• Produce high-quality, publication-ready deliverables that communicate the strategic plan effectively.
• Facilitate multi-stakeholder consultations to ensure diverse perspectives are included in the planning process.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of the strategic plan and make necessary adjustments based on feedback and outcomes.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in International Development, Public Policy, WASH, Innovation, Engineering, Public Health, or a related field. A first degree plus two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of international experience in strategic planning, innovation systems, or program design.
• Proven track record in developing strategic plans and multi-year frameworks for global or multi-country programs.
• Strong understanding of global WASH challenges and climate-resilient systems.
• Experience working in UNICEF program countries on development or humanitarian programs is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as International Development, Public Policy, WASH, Innovation, Engineering, or Public Health. In some cases, a first degree combined with additional experience may be considered equivalent to an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of international experience, particularly in strategic planning and innovation systems. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to develop strategic plans and frameworks for global programs, as well as experience working in UNICEF program countries or similar contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy will be based on the submission of agreed deliverables, with payment contingent upon meeting quality standards and deadlines. UNICEF emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background. The organization also provides various benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be prepared for rigorous background checks and adhere to UNICEF's standards of conduct.