Programme Specialist

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Position Title: Programme Specialist
Location: Brussels
Country: Belgium
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 committed to promoting the rights of every child and emphasizes equity, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive and thrive without discrimination. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for personal and professional development, along with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist will play a crucial role in the Education Outcomes Fund (EOF), which aims to improve the education of 10 million children and young people by pooling $1 billion in aid and philanthropic funds. The position involves overseeing a portfolio of programs, which may include Early Childhood Care and Education, Basic Education, or Skills for Employment. The Programme Specialist will be responsible for the full program life cycle, including design, implementation, and evaluation, while also engaging with stakeholders to advocate for innovative financing in education. This role requires a strategic mindset and the ability to manage complex programs effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and implementation of EOF’s programs, overseeing the full program life cycle including concept development, detailed design, contracting, and evaluation.
• Provide expert advice on Outcomes Based Financing strategy and ensure high-quality program outputs.
• Support advocacy and partnership building by engaging with senior stakeholders and developing proposals for governments and donors.
• Contribute to organizational development by defining the vision and strategy for EOF and monitoring progress towards annual goals.
• Supervise consultants and support the growth and professional development of the program team, fostering a positive working environment.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree in economics, political science, finance, education, international development, or a related field is required. A first university degree combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five years of professional experience in project management, program design, and implementation, particularly in education programming and international development, is essential. Experience with Results-Based Financing programs and working with governments in developing countries is required. Relevant experience in a UN system agency is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as economics, political science, finance, education, international development, or international relations. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional professional experience may be accepted.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in project management, program design, and implementation, particularly in the context of education programming and international development. Experience in developing countries and with government entities is essential, along with a proven track record in Results-Based Financing programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset, and knowledge of Portuguese is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily based in Brussels, Belgium, with a future relocation anticipated. Remote work may be permitted as an interim arrangement until the new location is finalized. Candidates should be aware that relocation will be required once the new location is established. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and has policies in place to support employees with disabilities.