Programme Specialist, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Reproductive Rights (SRH&RR)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is a leading global organization that promotes the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. The organization aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA works in collaboration with governments, civil society, and other partners to achieve its mission and objectives, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Reproductive Rights (SRH&RR) plays a pivotal role in leading and managing comprehensive integrated programmes that focus on maternal health, family planning, HIV prevention, and addressing harmful practices that affect the health and wellbeing of women and girls. This position is crucial in supporting national efforts to achieve universal access to comprehensive SRH&RR by promoting policy, financing, programmatic, and accountability commitments. The Programme Specialist is responsible for overseeing the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of UNFPA's SRH&RR programmes and projects, with a particular emphasis on strengthening Eritrea's primary health care delivery systems. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and sister UN agencies, to ensure effective and efficient use of resources and to achieve the desired programme outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist has a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Overseeing the formulation, design, and delivery of country programmes and projects on SRH&RR in alignment with government priorities and UNFPA policies.
• Monitoring and evaluating programme results through appropriate oversight mechanisms.
• Assessing the political, social, and economic environment relevant to SRH&RR and identifying opportunities for UNFPA intervention.
• Establishing collaborative partnerships with executing agencies, experts, and government counterparts to facilitate timely project delivery.
• Advancing policy dialogue and thought leadership to advocate for the development and implementation of SRH&RR policies.
• Supporting national capacity development in SRH&RR through strategic planning and results-based management.
• Leading advocacy efforts, mobilizing resources, and managing programme teams effectively.
• Contributing to strategic communication and resource mobilization strategies by preparing evidence-based briefs and project proposals.
• Providing substantive leadership in the design and delivery of programmes that translate UNFPA's mandate into local interventions. 1
• Sharing knowledge on SRH&RR with key partners to ensure integration into capacity development processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in medicine, public health, or a related social science discipline. They should have at least five years of increasing professional experience in development and population activities, particularly in programme/project management. Demonstrable technical expertise in SRH&RR, including gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful practices, is essential. Candidates should also have proven experience in results-based management, coordinating teams, and strategic communication. Strong interpersonal, negotiating, and intercultural communication skills are required, along with the ability to write robust proposals and mobilize resources. Familiarity with Microsoft Office software and web-based applications is necessary, as well as a dedication to UN principles and the ability to work harmoniously in diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in fields such as medicine, public health, or related social sciences. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, as well as for effectively managing programmes that address these critical issues.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in the field of development and population activities. Candidates should have substantial experience in programme and project management, demonstrating a results-oriented approach. Experience in coordinating and managing teams, as well as in networking and liaising with government counterparts, NGOs, UN agencies, and other development partners, is essential. The ability to navigate complex environments and influence diverse stakeholders is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary and other applicable benefits. The recruitment process does not involve any fees at any stage, and candidates are encouraged to apply through the UNFPA electronic application management system. All applications must be submitted within ten business days from the date of the vacancy announcement. Candidates should provide evidence of completion or exemption from national service. The role is based in Asmara, Eritrea, and may involve collaboration with various national and international partners.