Program Specialist, Family Planning/Supply Chain Management Program Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, 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 promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues, working with governments and partners to ensure that every individual has access to essential health services and the information they need to make informed choices about their reproductive health. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) commitments.

Job Overview:
The Program Specialist, Family Planning/Supply Chain Management Program Coordinator plays a crucial role in coordinating family planning strategies and technical services between the Country Office and the Ministry of Health. This position is responsible for maintaining strategic partnerships with international stakeholders and contributing to policy dialogue and advocacy for the operationalization of supply chain management guidelines. The specialist will ensure effective implementation of free family planning services, mobilization of domestic resources, and assist in managing identified gaps in family planning services. The role requires a strong focus on reproductive health interventions that align with the Government of Benin's normative frameworks and the interventions of other technical and financial partners. The specialist will lead the development and implementation of a budgeted annual health systems strengthening plan and ensure the transfer of skills in family planning program management to the FP program team members.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Engage in policy dialogue and strategic advocacy for family planning, including mobilizing domestic and external resources. Prepare documentation for advocacy efforts, participate in donor meetings, and support the Ministry of Health in coordinating donor platforms.
• Lead the implementation of the free family planning policy and coordinate the development of health systems strengthening initiatives with the Ministry of Health. Conduct strategic analyses of implementing partners' requests and guide their implementation.
• Oversee the organization and conduct of Last Mile Assurance (LMA) activities, ensuring the effective monitoring of supply chain tools and the continuity of technical support for health product management.
• Assist in capacity-building objectives for actors involved in family planning programs and ensure the technical updating of UNFPA team members and consultants.
• Analyze and report on program progress, identifying resource constraints and proposing corrective measures. Document best practices and innovative actions for communication purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Public Health, Pharmacy, or Medicine, with proven experience in coordinating reproductive health programs and managing reproductive health supplies. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in health program management is required, along with a strong understanding of the national socio-cultural context regarding reproductive health and family planning. Candidates should demonstrate analytical, strategic, and operational thinking skills, with a focus on Results-Based Management (RBM) and innovation. Experience in leading teams and a good knowledge of UNFPA procedures are assets. Beninese nationality is preferred.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in Public Health, Pharmacy, or Medicine is required for this position. This educational background should be complemented by relevant experience in managing reproductive health programs and supplies, ensuring that candidates have the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the role effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in managing health programs and projects, either in the public or private sector. This experience should include strategic responsibility in coordinating reproductive health initiatives and managing supply chains, demonstrating the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and lead teams.

Languages:
A good command of spoken and written French is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language in Benin. Knowledge of English as a working language is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other 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. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.