Planning and Coordination Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization merges the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, focusing on eliminating discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving gender equality. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to support the implementation of international standards and frameworks for gender equality and women's rights. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and competence, regardless of race, gender, or other characteristics.

Job Overview:
The Planning and Coordination Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting strategic planning and technical guidance for UN Women’s initiatives in the Southern Caribbean, specifically in Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao, Guyana, and Suriname. This position involves liaising with counterparts in the Multi-Country Office (MCO) and serving as the Technical Lead on critical issues such as Women and Girls Free from Violence and Women, Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security. The Specialist will be responsible for developing strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and advocacy efforts, ensuring that gender equality and women's empowerment are prioritized in development assistance. The role requires a strong understanding of inter-agency coordination processes and the ability to provide technical support to various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Supporting strategic planning for the MCO by advising on the formulation of concept notes and developing country programming processes.
• Providing technical support to the Country Representative and MCO on inter-agency coordination related to Women and Girls Free from Violence and Women, Peace and Security.
• Participating in joint UN planning processes and preparing briefing materials for discussions at UN events.
• Analyzing gender dynamics and advising the UN Country Team on inclusive engagement of women in development assistance.
• Preparing analytical reports on UN Women’s program experiences and representing the MCO at conferences and meetings.
• Managing activities to engage donors and civil society in support of UN Women’s programs.
• Supporting the MCO’s Annual Communication Strategy and developing advocacy campaigns on gender equality.
• Facilitating knowledge sharing and capacity building exercises within the organization and with partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in international development, public administration, public policy, or a related social science field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A project/programme management certification, such as PMP®, PRINCE2®, or MSP®, is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong knowledge of gender equity issues, UN system processes, and results-based program planning.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as international development or public policy. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. A project management certification is advantageous but not mandatory.

Experience:
At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in inter-agency coordination and strategic program planning is required. Candidates should have experience in developing, implementing, and monitoring programs, particularly in gender equality and women's rights at the international level. Experience working in developing countries and within the UN system is an asset, as is familiarity with multi-country contexts and specific knowledge of Trinidad and Tobago.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official working language is desirable, with Spanish being an asset. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to nationals of Trinidad and Tobago, individuals with legal rights to work in the country, and those holding a valid CARICOM skills certificate. The role may involve direct supervision of consultants, UN Volunteers, and interns. UN Women emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims, including sexual exploitation and abuse, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification.