Social Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every person can exercise their right to sexual and reproductive health. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly those related to health, gender equality, and social inclusion. UNFPA's mission is driven by a strategic plan that outlines its objectives and priorities, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based policies and programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations. With a workforce of dedicated professionals, UNFPA aims to transform lives and empower individuals through comprehensive social protection systems and services.

Job Overview:
The Social Protection Officer will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the IPA 2022 'EU4PEOPLE-SOCIAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME' in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This position involves managing the day-to-day operations of the program, ensuring that all activities align with the established requirements set forth by UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA, and ILO. The officer will be responsible for fostering collaboration with implementing partners to ensure that activities are delivered on time and within budget. The incumbent will report directly to the Assistant Representative and will work within the Country Office environment to coordinate the implementation of the program, focusing on social protection for vulnerable groups, demographic change, and gender-responsive social services. The role requires effective interaction with various stakeholders, including government agencies and other UN organizations, to ensure the program's objectives are met and that it contributes to improving social inclusion, reducing inequalities, and advancing gender equality through a modernized social protection system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Social Protection Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Supporting Project Coordination: Implementing the UNFPA Component of the program, ensuring alignment with project objectives and timelines, and facilitating effective collaboration with all stakeholders, including government and experts.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Tracking progress of research activities, making necessary adjustments to ensure timely delivery of results, and establishing a robust system to evaluate partner effectiveness in achieving project objectives.
• Building Relationships: Collaborating with government agencies, research institutions, and donors to foster positive working relationships and ensure effective project implementation.
• Quality Assurance: Providing technical guidance to partners, ensuring adherence to standards and quality assurance mechanisms for data.
• Reporting: Preparing timely and accurate reports, contributing to research findings, and analyzing the broader context to identify opportunities for policy implications.
• Knowledge Management: Assisting in implementing strategies to capture lessons learned and best practices, sharing these insights with management for future planning.
• Performing other duties as required by the supervisor and agreed upon by the Country Office management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (minimum Master's degree or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Business Administration, Management, or a related field. Professional experience in project management, particularly in public health, social policy, and research, is highly advantageous. Proven experience in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation is essential, along with experience in providing technical advice, donor reporting, and capacity building. Leadership skills in managing diverse teams and excellent communication, written reporting, and analytical skills are required. Experience working with the UN, international organizations, and managing EU-funded projects is also highly advantageous.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields such as Social Sciences, Business Administration, Management, or related disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social protection systems and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial professional experience in project management, ideally in the fields of public health, social policy, and research. Experience in program design, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation is critical, as is the ability to provide technical advice and support. Familiarity with donor reporting and capacity building initiatives is also important. Leadership experience in managing diverse teams, including staff, experts, and consultants, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the successful implementation of the program.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within the UNFPA Country Office in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The contract duration and seniority level will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The role involves working closely with various UN agencies and government stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and effective communication. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNFPA's policies and standards.