Chief Child Protection

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child, which is not just a job but a calling. UNICEF is known for its diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a culture where staff can grow and belong. The organization employs thousands of individuals worldwide and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities it serves. UNICEF offers an attractive compensation and benefits package to its employees, emphasizing the importance of their work in advocating for children's rights.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Child Protection will lead a high-performing child protection team in Malaysia, providing strategic leadership and technical oversight for the development, implementation, and monitoring of child protection programs. This role is crucial in influencing national policies and contributing to the Malaysia MADANI framework and the 13th Malaysia Plan. The Chief will be responsible for ensuring that every child is protected, included, healthy, learning, and able to realize their full potential. The position requires a focus on supporting the Government in implementing the CRC Concluding Observations and Recommendations from 202

• The Chief will also develop and build strategic partnerships with governments, civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and business partners to ensure that UNICEF adds value and supports the Government's aspiration to prioritize children in national development.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and technical oversight for child protection programs, ensuring alignment with national policies and frameworks.
• Lead the planning, implementation, and monitoring of child protection initiatives that deliver sustainable results.
• Foster partnerships with government entities, donors, UN agencies, and the private sector to enhance program effectiveness.
• Advocate for the rights of children and influence national policies to strengthen the protection environment.
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF's standards and principles in all child protection activities.
• Monitor and evaluate program outcomes, making necessary adjustments to improve effectiveness.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to support the implementation of the CRC Concluding Observations and Recommendations.
• Drive innovation in child protection strategies to address emerging challenges and opportunities.
• Represent UNICEF in national and international forums related to child protection. 1
• Manage and mentor a team of child protection professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University Degree (Master's or equivalent) in International Development, Psychology, Sociology, Law - International, Social Science, Human Rights, or related fields.
• At least 8 years of relevant work experience in program management, child protection, development, human rights, or related areas.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to build and maintain partnerships.
• Proven track record in managing complex programs and driving results in challenging environments.
• Familiarity with child protection issues, particularly in high-income countries and humanitarian contexts.
• Knowledge of child online protection and alternative care systems is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in fields such as International Development, Psychology, Sociology, Law - International, Social Science, Human Rights, or other related disciplines. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of child protection and development issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in areas such as program management, child protection, development, human rights, and partnerships. Candidates should have experience working in both development and fragile settings, as well as in humanitarian contexts. Relevant experience at the country level is particularly valuable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for fluent communication skills. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term role with a focus on child protection in Malaysia. It is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring additional vetting and assessment. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must comply with medical clearance and vaccination requirements as mandated by UNICEF. The role is subject to rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history.