Social Policy Specialist (Social Protection) Level 3 TA

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Position Title: Social Policy Specialist (Social Protection) Level 3 TA
Location: Damascus
Country: Syria
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is dedicated to promoting the rights of every child, which is not just a job but a calling. UNICEF prides itself on a culture that supports staff development and offers diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside an attractive compensation and benefits package. In Syria, UNICEF has been active since 1970, working with partners to empower children to claim their rights under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The organization provides humanitarian assistance and delivers essential services in various sectors, including Child Protection, Education, Health, Nutrition, and Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria has led to unprecedented needs, with 90% of the population living in poverty and millions requiring assistance, particularly following the devastating earthquakes in February 202

• UNICEF remains committed to upholding children's rights and creating an environment where they are protected and empowered.

Job Overview:
The Social Policy Specialist will report to the Chief of Social Policy and is responsible for providing technical and operational support for UNICEF’s cash assistance and social protection programming. The role involves assisting in the design, management, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of social protection programming, ensuring a systematic and evidence-based approach. The Specialist will lead the development and implementation of cash plus interventions, ensuring effective coordination and execution of cash transfer programs. This position requires a proactive approach to operational management, including conducting regular analyses, risk assessments, and developing partnerships for social protection interventions. The Specialist will also support the development of social protection policies and strategies, contributing to UNICEF's mission of advocating for every child's rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and implementation of UNICEF’s cash plus interventions in coordination with relevant sections.
• Design, implement, and coordinate the cash transfer program, ensuring effective monitoring, reporting, and evaluation activities.
• Provide technical support for the operational management of cash transfer activities, including conducting regular operational analyses and risk assessments.
• Develop partnerships and collaborations with internal and external counterparts to enhance social protection interventions.
• Support the development of social protection policies, strategies, and programs, ensuring alignment with UNICEF’s mission and objectives.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of social protection programs, making recommendations for improvements as necessary.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to promote social protection initiatives and raise awareness of children's rights.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or a relevant technical field is required.
• A minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience is required, with a strong asset for experience in developing countries and familiarity with emergency contexts.
• Proven experience in cash transfer programs is considered a strong asset.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and manage complex projects effectively.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to conduct operational analyses and risk assessments.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in one of the following fields: Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or another relevant technical field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of social protection and cash assistance programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience. Candidates with experience working in developing countries will be viewed favorably, particularly those with a background in emergency contexts. Experience in cash transfer programs is also considered a strong asset, as it directly relates to the responsibilities of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable, given the context of the work in Syria and the need to communicate effectively with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within UNICEF, which emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization encourages applications from eligible and suitable female candidates. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and abuse. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Appointments are subject to medical clearance and may require compliance with vaccination requirements. UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and ensures that all positions are advertised, with only shortlisted candidates contacted for further stages.