Strategic Engagement Advisor

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 has a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and focuses on four interconnected outcomes: ending unmet need for family planning, ending preventable maternal deaths, ending gender-based violence and harmful practices, and adapting to demographic change through evidence-based policies. UNFPA is dedicated to ensuring gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within its workforce, and actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Engagement Advisor plays a pivotal role in the Malawi Country Office, leading the Policy, Population and Data Unit. This position is crucial for advancing UNFPA's upstream work on demographic change, population dynamics, sustainable financing, and evidence-based development planning. The Advisor will contribute to the operationalization of the UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026–2029, particularly focusing on adapting to demographic change through evidence-based and rights-based policies. The role requires establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, civil society, and the private sector, to ensure that population dynamics inform national development planning. The Advisor will also be responsible for influencing diverse counterparts to achieve strategic outcomes using population data and demographic intelligence, thereby positioning UNFPA as a thought leader in addressing demographic change as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Engagement Advisor will lead UNFPA's engagement in integrating population dynamics into national development planning. This includes facilitating high-level policy dialogue with government counterparts and development partners, ensuring the incorporation of UNFPA’s program priorities into national policies and strategies. The Advisor will utilize population data and demographic intelligence to inform policy dialogue and strategic planning, advocate for evidence-informed policies, and represent UNFPA in strategic forums. Additionally, the Advisor will oversee the support to the Government of Malawi in national census and population-based surveys, promote the use of disaggregated data, and advocate for sustainable financing for population and SRHR programs. The role also involves developing policy briefs, analytical reports, and engaging with key stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and promote evidence-based advocacy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed Master’s Degree in Demography, Economics, Population Studies, Public Policy, Political Science, Statistics, Development Studies, or Public Health. A minimum of 7 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in policy development, demographic analysis, and public financing is required. Demonstrated experience in policy engagement with government institutions, particularly in planning, finance, and health sectors, is essential. Proven ability to use population data and demographic trends to inform policy development and national planning processes is necessary. Candidates should have excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and managerial skills, along with a passion for issues related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and gender.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as Demography, Economics, Population Studies, Public Policy, Political Science, Statistics, Development Studies, or Public Health. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of population dynamics and their implications for development planning and policy advocacy.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in policy development, demographic analysis, and public financing. Experience in engaging with government institutions and stakeholders in the areas of planning, finance, and health is crucial. The role demands a strong background in using demographic data to inform policy and development strategies, as well as experience in managing multi-sector programs and leading teams to achieve evidence-based results.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language is desired, and working knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages is important for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.