Strategic Information Specialist

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Position Title: Strategic Information Specialist
Location: Gaborone
Country: Botswana
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, maternal health, and gender equality. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights by 2030, as outlined in its strategic plan for 2022-202

• UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to delivering high-impact results in their work.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Information Specialist position is crucial for the UNFPA Botswana country office, where the incumbent will report directly to the Head of Office. This role is designed to provide high-level strategic technical expertise that aligns with the approved UNFPA and Botswana Government 6th Country Programme. The focus will be on Monitoring and Evaluation, Data for Development, and Population Dynamics. The position holder will lead the monitoring of implementation and provide technical advice, policy advocacy, capacity development, and knowledge management within the framework of integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), HIV, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Youth Outputs. The role is integral to ensuring that the UNFPA fulfills its strategic role as a data agency in the country, providing evidence-based insights that inform program planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Information Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Analyzing the political, social, and economic environment relevant to population and development, SRHR, and gender equality.
• Leading the establishment of quality standards for project development and delivery in consultation with relevant technical advisors.
• Providing quality assurance and technical support to the Country Office's program development, implementation, and evaluation processes.
• Developing the Country Programme and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Plan in collaboration with government counterparts and NGOs.
• Contributing to evidence-based advocacy by consolidating research data and disseminating results through various platforms.
• Compiling and analyzing data on project indicators and informing management regularly.
• Providing technical guidance for baseline and end-line studies.
• Supporting the monitoring and evaluation of the Country Programme and advising on country-level processes.
• Leading effective coordination programming and participating in key coordination meetings. 1
• Supporting Country Programme evaluations and ensuring compliance with audit recommendations. 1
• Conducting systematic checks and providing technical and policy support in data generation and population dynamics. 1
• Contributing to advocacy and resource mobilization efforts by preparing relevant documentation and developing partnerships.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in Demography, Statistics, Population Studies, Health Economics, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of program experience, advocacy work, and capacity development is required. Candidates should demonstrate excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and managerial skills. A proactive approach, passion for the issues, and proven ability to develop and implement effective resource mobilization strategies are essential. A thorough understanding of the UN system is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as Demography, Statistics, Population Studies, Health Economics, or another directly related area. This advanced degree is critical for understanding the complexities of population dynamics and the analytical skills needed for effective program management and evaluation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in program management, advocacy, and capacity development. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing and implementing effective strategies and campaigns, as well as strong problem-solving skills and data analytical capabilities. Experience working within the UN system or similar international organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages is considered an additional advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, cost of living adjustment, rental subsidy, education grant, home leave, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. 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. UNFPA is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates.