Programme Specialist - Gender and Social Norms

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 territories, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. The organization aims to ensure that every individual has the right to make informed choices about their reproductive health and to promote gender equality and women's empowerment. 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, while also striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• With a diverse workforce, UNFPA is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the values of gender equality and diversity.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist will serve as the technical adviser on UNFPA’s normative mandate, focusing on project formulation, evaluation, and joint programming initiatives. This role involves leading the programme team in Moldova and the gender team in Ukraine, ensuring effective collaboration between the two Country Offices. The incumbent will report to the UNFPA Representative in Moldova and have a matrix reporting line to the Resident Representative in Ukraine. The position requires a dynamic individual capable of managing cross-border operations and ensuring adherence to UNFPA policies while addressing the challenges posed by the Moldova-Ukraine context. The Programme Specialist will oversee the management of gender and social norms activities, ensuring alignment with UNFPA’s strategic goals and fostering partnerships with government entities, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing country programmes in collaboration with government counterparts and NGOs, focusing on normative content and aligning with national priorities. Key responsibilities include advocating for legislative amendments related to gender-based violence (GBV), ensuring the application of appropriate policies, and establishing monitoring mechanisms. The role involves analyzing the socio-political environment to identify opportunities for UNFPA intervention, promoting positive masculinities, and addressing gender-based discrimination. The incumbent will also manage project implementation, establish partnerships with executing agencies, and ensure effective knowledge management strategies are in place. Additionally, the Programme Specialist will contribute to advocacy and resource mobilization efforts, preparing relevant documentation and participating in public events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in human rights, communication, population, demography, or a related social science discipline. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in development, gender, and human rights activities is required, with at least three years of international experience. Proven experience in programme/project management, including coordinating large multi-sector projects and liaising with partners, is essential. The candidate should have experience in managing multidisciplinary teams and providing policy advice with documented results. Field experience is required, and prior experience in the UN system is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in human rights, communication, population, demography, or other related social science disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address complex issues related to gender and social norms effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience in development, gender, and human rights activities. Out of these, at least three years must be in an international context. Candidates should have experience in managing and coordinating multi-sector projects, designing proposals, and working with various stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs. Field experience is crucial, as it provides practical insights into the challenges faced in implementing gender and social norms initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages is desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners in the international context.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects gender equality, diversity, and integrity, encouraging women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process.