UNJP Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights and ensuring their basic needs are met. With a mission to expand opportunities for children to reach their full potential, UNICEF has been operational in Lao PDR for over 45 years, making it one of the longest-serving international organizations in the country. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting the government, advocating for reforms, and leading coordination efforts to scale up results in child welfare and health services. UNICEF collaborates closely with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, to strengthen health systems and improve equitable access to quality reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on sustainable coverage and transformational change in child health and rights.

Job Overview:
The UNJP Coordinator is responsible for leading the overall coordination of the United Nations Joint Programme (UNJP) on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) in Lao PDR. This role involves ensuring coherent planning, implementation, and monitoring across participating UN agencies and government counterparts. The Coordinator will work closely with the Ministry of Health and serve as the primary liaison between UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, and other partners. The position requires a strong focus on aligning the programme with national systems, priorities, and donor commitments. The Coordinator will also be involved in organizing governance mechanisms, coordinating high-level missions, and preparing annual joint workplans and budgets. Monitoring programme implementation and performance against agreed plans and indicators is a critical aspect of this role, as is the consolidation of technical and financial inputs from partners for reporting purposes. The position demands effective communication and coordination skills to ensure timely delivery of results and accountability within the programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UNJP Coordinator will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: serving as the central focal point for coordination and communication among UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, the Ministry of Health, and LuxDev; organizing and supporting programme governance mechanisms such as Steering Committee and Technical Team meetings; preparing agendas, minutes, and follow-up actions for these meetings; coordinating high-level missions and technical visits, including the preparation of briefing materials and post-mission documentation; leading the preparation and consolidation of annual joint workplans and budgets across participating agencies; monitoring programme implementation and performance against agreed plans, indicators, and timelines; consolidating technical and financial inputs from partners and supporting the preparation of periodic progress and donor reports; monitoring the use of the coordination budget and tracking related expenditures; and ensuring effective communication and information flow among all stakeholders involved in the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UNJP Coordinator position must possess a strong set of qualifications, including proven experience in programme coordination, particularly in health-related fields. A deep understanding of the RMNCAH landscape and the ability to navigate complex multi-agency environments are essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain partnerships across diverse stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are also required, along with the capacity to manage ambiguity and complexity in a dynamic work environment. Familiarity with the UN system and experience working in developing countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, will be considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's core values and principles.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the UNJP Coordinator position. Candidates should hold at least a Master's degree in public health, international development, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced training or certifications in programme management, health systems strengthening, or related areas will be advantageous. A strong academic foundation in health policy, child rights, or maternal and child health will also be beneficial for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, typically a minimum of 5-7 years in programme coordination or management, particularly in health or development sectors. Experience working with UN agencies, government counterparts, and non-governmental organizations in similar contexts is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing complex programmes and demonstrating results in health service delivery, particularly in RMNCAH. Experience in capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and resource mobilization will also be valuable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the UNJP Coordinator position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UN system. Proficiency in Lao or other regional languages would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the programme.

Additional Notes:
The UNJP Coordinator position is a full-time role based in Vientiane, Laos, and is classified as a family duty station. The living conditions in Vientiane are generally safe and comfortable, with adequate accommodation options available. The assignment may require flexibility and cultural sensitivity, as well as a willingness to travel to provincial areas where conditions may be more basic. Selected candidates may be subject to Covid-19 vaccination requirements in line with the applicable host entity’s policy. The position offers an enriching living and working environment, with opportunities for professional growth and development within the UN system.