Emergency Specialist (Preparedness)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, and it emphasizes a culture of inclusivity and growth, supported by an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Emergency Specialist (Preparedness) position is crucial for enhancing UNICEF's global, regional, and country-level early warning and preparedness systems. Under the supervision of the Chief of the Risk Analysis and Preparedness Section (RAPS), the specialist will work to improve readiness for humanitarian responses. This role involves leading policy development, capacity-building initiatives, and ensuring that emergency preparedness is integrated into UNICEF's operations. The specialist will also be responsible for the effective use of the Emergency Preparedness Platform (EPP), which is an essential tool for analyzing risks and monitoring operational preparedness. The position requires collaboration with various divisions and stakeholders to ensure that UNICEF meets its Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action (CCCs).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Initiate, lead, and support policy development and capacity-building for emergency preparedness, acting as the preparedness focal point for UNICEF. This includes reviewing and updating emergency preparedness procedures and guidance documents, representing UNICEF in inter-divisional discussions, and developing guidance on preparedness for global catastrophes.
• Lead the improvement and effective use of the Emergency Preparedness Platform (EPP), including reviewing its fitness for purpose, developing structural improvements, and providing technical assistance to Country Offices (COs) and Regional Offices (ROs).
• Support and monitor the implementation of preparedness funds, collaborate on fundraising efforts, and facilitate reporting requirements. This includes coordinating annual reporting and providing briefings to senior management.
• The position may require deployment in the field to support COs and ROs as needed. The overall impact of this role is to enhance the preparedness of UNICEF's operations to respond effectively to humanitarian crises.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in International Studies, Public Administration, Development Studies, Social Science, Humanitarian Affairs, or related fields. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional work experience in preparedness and/or humanitarian action is required. Skills in risk analysis, emergency preparedness, and anticipatory action at various organizational levels are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as International Studies, Public Administration, Development Studies, Social Science, or Humanitarian Affairs. A Bachelor’s degree may be accepted if combined with sufficient relevant work experience, demonstrating flexibility in educational requirements based on practical experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional work experience in the fields of preparedness and humanitarian action. Candidates should have experience working in risk analysis, emergency preparedness, and anticipatory action at national, regional, and headquarters levels, showcasing a strong background in the relevant areas of expertise.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve international mobility as part of UNICEF's commitment to humanitarian action. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children.