Social Policy Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of every child, particularly those who are most vulnerable and disadvantaged. With a mission to ensure that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories worldwide. The organization collaborates with governments and partners to improve policies, programs, and services for children and adolescents, addressing barriers to the realization of their rights. UNICEF's equity strategy emphasizes the importance of focusing on the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translating its commitment to children's rights into actionable initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Social Policy Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of social policy and social protection initiatives, particularly focusing on governance for children and public finance at regional and local levels. This position requires close collaboration with the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) and the Social Development Committee (SDCom) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The officer will assist in reviewing technical documents and reports related to social protection programming, ensuring effective coordination with regional ministries and local government units, and contributing to the preparation of budget and expenditure reviews. The role also involves monitoring the implementation of activities under the nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Child Nutrition Fund (CNF) and providing administrative support for capacity-building initiatives. The Social Policy Officer will be expected to maintain updated knowledge and documentation systems, ensuring that all relevant information is organized and accessible.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of social protection activities under Project CARES, coordinating closely with MSSD and SDCom.
• Review technical documents, submissions, and reports from MSSD related to social protection programming, summarizing key issues and providing consolidated comments.
• Ensure effective coordination and engagement with regional ministries, local government units, and development partners on social protection, Public Financial Management (PFM), and governance for children.
• Monitor the implementation status of activities under the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), coordinating with key partner ministries.
• Contribute to the preparation of social sectors budget and expenditure reviews, policy notes, and advocacy briefs to support evidence-based dialogues and reforms.
• Assist the Mindanao Field Office (MFO) team in developing social sectors budget and expenditure analysis.
• Provide administrative and coordination support in capacity-building initiatives, including coaching and mentoring target LGUs on governance reforms.
• Maintain updated knowledge and documentation systems, including organization and regular updating of the MFO–Social Policy SharePoint repositories.
• Engage in activities that promote volunteerism and community engagement as part of the UN Volunteers program.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of social policy and protection frameworks. They should demonstrate the capacity to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government entities and development partners. The candidate should also exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, particularly in promoting equity and the rights of children. Familiarity with public financial management and governance issues related to children is essential, along with the ability to navigate complex political and social environments.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, public policy, international development, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the position.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of professional experience in social policy, social protection, or related fields. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations in the context of child rights and social development is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Bangsamoro context and experience in capacity-building initiatives will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Philippines, particularly in the Bangsamoro region, is considered an advantage and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National UN Volunteer role based in Cotabato City, Philippines. The contract duration is typically for a year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is full-time, and the selected candidate will receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA), insurance coverage, and annual leave of 2.5 days per month. Additional entitlements include an Entry Lump Sum Allowance and an Exit Lump Sum Allowance payable upon successful completion of the assignment. The working environment in Cotabato City is supportive, with strong interagency networks and local partnerships facilitating effective collaboration.