Individual Consultant: Youth Employment Pathways and Partnerships Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a leading humanitarian and development agency that works globally to protect the rights of every child. Established in 1946, UNICEF has spent over 70 years improving the lives of children and their families across 190 countries and territories. The organization aims to reach the most disadvantaged children, ensuring their rights to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential. UNICEF's mission encompasses a wide range of services, including safe shelter, nutrition, health care, education, and protection from disaster and conflict. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, promoting flexible work arrangements and a multicultural work environment. UNICEF has also been recognized for its efforts in gender equality, being the first UN agency to receive the EDGE certification, which sets a global standard for workplace equality.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant: Youth Employment Pathways and Partnerships Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF's mission to enhance youth employment opportunities. This position is primarily remote/home-based, allowing the consultant to manage their own time effectively while adhering to a specific delivery schedule. The consultant will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that foster partnerships and pathways for youth employment, ensuring that deliverables are met as per the agreed timeline. The role requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners, to create sustainable employment opportunities for young people. The consultant will also be expected to conduct research, analyze data, and provide recommendations to improve youth employment initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for youth employment pathways and partnerships.
• Conduct research and analysis on current youth employment trends and challenges.
• Engage with stakeholders, including government, NGOs, and private sector, to foster partnerships that enhance youth employment opportunities.
• Prepare and submit deliverables as per the agreed schedule, ensuring quality and timeliness.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of youth employment initiatives and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to build capacity among stakeholders involved in youth employment.
• Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to UNICEF and partners.
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF's policies and procedures throughout the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in youth employment programs or related fields.
• Strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in youth employment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency in project management and strategic planning.
• Familiarity with UNICEF's mission and values is an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in social sciences, development studies, public policy, or a related field is required. Additional certifications in project management or youth development are desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in youth employment, program development, or consultancy roles is required. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Hindi or other regional languages is an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is for a duration of 12 months and is deliverable-based. The consultant will primarily work remotely but may need to visit UNICEF office premises for meetings as required. The position is open to national consultants only, and UNICEF encourages applications from women, trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse candidates. The organization does not charge any fees during the application process, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.