Programme Specialist, Maternal and Newborn Health Thematic Trust Fund Governance and Project Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) 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 has a mission to improve reproductive health and rights, particularly for women and adolescents. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in the areas of maternal health, gender equality, and population dynamics. UNFPA's work is guided by its Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which outlines its response to a complex global environment and aims to accelerate the implementation of the Programme of Action from the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist will play a crucial role in managing the governance norms and procedures for the Maternal and Newborn Health Fund (MNH Fund) and will support the coordination of the Fund's annual work planning and review processes. This position requires a strong understanding of maternal and newborn health issues and the ability to ensure adherence to programming guidance and eligibility within the Fund. The incumbent will also be responsible for effective external communications with key stakeholders and will provide project management support to other aligned funded programmes. The role is vital in ensuring that the MNH Fund achieves its objectives of improving maternal and newborn health and well-being globally, contributing to the reduction of preventable maternal deaths as outlined in UNFPA's Strategic Plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will manage the MNH Fund by acting as the secretariat for the core fund team, which includes finance, monitoring and evaluation, and communications. Responsibilities include coordinating the annual work planning process for regional and country offices, leading programme monitoring, and supporting the onboarding of new team members. The Programme Specialist will also coordinate preparation for Advisory Board meetings, ensuring that all necessary materials are prepared and disseminated. They will maintain a system to track data requests and action items from governance meetings and manage the implementation of the MNH Fund Governance Calendar. Additionally, the role involves ensuring effective communication on governance processes, contributing to the preparation of briefing notes and communication products, and providing technical support to country offices in alignment with key programming priorities. The incumbent will also support grant management activities and maintain a calendar of grant activities and deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in management, international relations, medicine, public health, economics, social science, social work, or related fields. They should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in maternal health, sexual and reproductive health integration, international development, or public health. The ability to translate complex technical content into clear messages for diverse audiences is essential, along with demonstrated experience in project and programme management, financial planning, and follow-up. Candidates should exemplify integrity, demonstrate commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, and embrace cultural diversity and change.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is required for this position, with a focus on fields such as management, international relations, medicine, public health, economics, social science, or social work. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of maternal and newborn health issues and for effectively managing the governance and project management aspects of the MNH Fund.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in areas such as maternal health, sexual and reproductive health integration, international development, or public health. Candidates should have a proven track record in project management and the ability to navigate complex health systems and funding landscapes. Experience in managing diverse portfolios and strategic partnerships is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages is considered an asset, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in the international development community.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.