Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established to address global population issues, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population data. The organization aims to accelerate the implementation of the Programme of Action from the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• UNFPA's mission is pursued through a commitment to human rights and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and youth, in various socio-economic contexts.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist plays a crucial role in the Resource Mobilisation and Partnership (RMP) Unit at UNFPA Ethiopia. This position is responsible for updating and implementing effective partnership and resource mobilization strategies that enhance the visibility and awareness of UNFPA's work in Ethiopia. The incumbent will work to maximize donor funding availability for the Country Office and provide strategic programming and policy support to align external relations with the ICPD Programme of Action and the SDGs. The role requires a strategic approach to partnership building and resource mobilization, ensuring that all efforts are integrated with national development frameworks and UNFPA's strategic objectives. The Programme Specialist will also support the management of UNFPA activities across various sectors, including population change, sexual and reproductive health, and humanitarian response, thereby contributing to the overall mission of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for several key areas:

• Strategic Partnerships, Policy, and Advocacy: Identify and maintain strategic partnerships at national, regional, and global levels, including high-level UNFPA champions and influential stakeholders. Analyze the national context to inform UNFPA's work in Ethiopia.
• Resource Mobilization: Implement and update the Country Office Resource Mobilization Strategy, actively pursuing funding opportunities and developing creative fundraising tools. Coordinate the development of quality concept notes and proposals, ensuring timely donor reporting and compliance with funding agreements.
• Resource Management: Propose fund allocation for various costs, coordinate the Results and Resources Plan (RRP), and ensure compliance with donor commitments. Monitor project implementation and ensure optimal utilization of resources.
• Innovation and Knowledge Management: Foster an environment for the exchange of innovative programmatic ideas and maintain a repository of knowledge products to improve program effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s) in health, population, demography, economics, business administration, or a related social science discipline. A minimum of 5 to 7 years of professional experience in programming, advocacy, and resource mobilization is required. Proven ability to develop and implement effective resource mobilization strategies and campaigns is essential, along with strong knowledge of UN funding mechanisms and national development frameworks. Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills are necessary, as well as experience with web-based management systems and office software.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree (Master’s) in relevant fields such as health, population, demography, economics, business administration, or other related social science disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of resource mobilization and partnership strategies within the context of UNFPA's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 to 7 years of professional experience in areas related to programming, advocacy, and resource mobilization. This experience should include a proven track record of developing and implementing effective resource mobilization strategies and campaigns, as well as familiarity with UN funding mechanisms and national development frameworks. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are also essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Amharic is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and partners in the international development landscape.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and may involve collaboration with various stakeholders at national and international levels. The role is full-time and may require occasional travel within the country or region. Candidates should be prepared to work in a dynamic and rapidly changing development environment, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in their approach to resource mobilization and partnership building.