Individual Consultant - Programme Specialist SRHR

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is the lead United Nations agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. UNFPA aims to deliver a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates globally, with a strategic plan that outlines its objectives and responses to complex global challenges. UNFPA has a significant presence in various countries, working collaboratively with other UN agencies such as UNAIDS, UNICEF, and WHO to improve health outcomes in regions like Eastern and Southern Africa. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and it is committed to achieving gender equality and diversity within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The position of Programme Specialist is part of the 2gether 4 SRHR Programme, a collaborative initiative involving UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO. The primary focus of this role is to coordinate efforts to enhance sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across the region. The Programme Specialist will be responsible for developing and disseminating knowledge products, providing technical assistance to countries, and ensuring that SRHR is integrated into Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The role requires a strategic approach to regional programming, addressing issues such as unintended pregnancies, contraceptive access, and unsafe abortions. The Programme Specialist will also engage in advocacy and communication efforts to promote SRHR at various forums and will work closely with civil society and regional stakeholders to advance these goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include:

• Coordinating regional responses to SRHR by participating in global and regional UNFPA and interagency platforms.
• Supporting the development, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of work plans for the 2gether 4 SRHR Programme.
• Providing technical and programmatic support to countries, including monitoring implementation, identifying quality-assured technical assistance, and documenting program implementation.
• Overseeing the design and dissemination of studies and knowledge products related to SRHR.
• Supporting countries in developing national SRHR policies and strategies.
• Maintaining the Technical Assistance Hub by identifying relevant partners and experts.
• Engaging in advocacy efforts with regional stakeholders to promote SRHR.
• Collaborating with communications teams to amplify the work of the region through various media.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Specialist position include:

• An Advanced (Master’s) University Degree in Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Public Health, Development Studies, or a related field.
• A minimum of five years of professional experience in program/project management and coordination.
• At least five years of experience in SRHR, including policy formulation, research, and advocacy, with a preference for candidates with experience in comprehensive abortion care.
• Demonstrated experience in providing technical assistance to countries, particularly in the East and Southern African region.
• Proven ability to manage complex programs and large-scale projects, with previous experience in the United Nations or an international organization being advantageous.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiating, and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues to diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced (Master’s) University Degree in a relevant field such as Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Public Health, or Development Studies. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and rights and for effectively contributing to the program's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in program/project management and coordination, specifically in the areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Candidates should have experience working with governments and organizations in the East and Southern African region, providing technical assistance and support on SRHR issues. Experience in managing large-scale projects and familiarity with the United Nations system is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for reporting purposes. Proficiency in French or Portuguese is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication with stakeholders in the region and facilitate broader engagement in SRHR initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is for a duration of 11 months, commencing upon the signing of the contract and continuing until August 31, 202

• The consultant will be based at UNFPA ESARO in Johannesburg, South Africa, but may have the flexibility to work remotely as agreed upon. Payment will be made upon the presentation of monthly reports and submission of a completed Certificate of Payment (COP). The role emphasizes the importance of values such as integrity, commitment to UNFPA, and embracing cultural diversity. UNFPA is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups, including individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities.