Program Specialist, Family Planning/Supply Chain Management Program Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency focused on 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 workforce of more than 4,000 employees. The organization aims to achieve three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, while also promoting recovery and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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 effective implementation of family planning services. The specialist will ensure the operationalization of supply chain management guidelines, mobilize domestic resources, and assist in managing identified gaps in family planning services. The role requires a strong focus on reproductive health interventions aligned with government frameworks and collaboration with technical and financial partners. The specialist will lead the development and implementation of health systems strengthening plans and ensure skill transfer within the family planning program team.

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 donor platform activities.
• Coordinate the implementation of the free family planning policy and develop health systems strengthening strategies with Ministry of Health executives. Conduct strategic analyses of partner requests and guide their implementation.
• Oversee the organization of Last Mile Assurance activities, including inventory assessments and the development of national supply plans for reproductive health products.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders involved in family planning programs.
• Ensure the continuity of UNFPA's technical support for managing health product stocks and analyze program progress to propose 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, as well as the ability to adapt to multicultural environments and lead teams. Knowledge of UNFPA procedures and a commitment to gender equity and women's empowerment are essential.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in Public Health, Pharmacy, or Medicine is required for this position. The educational background should include a focus on reproductive health and supply chain management, with an emphasis on strategic responsibility in coordinating health programs.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in managing health programs and projects, either in the public or private sector. Experience in reproductive health and family planning is particularly valuable, along with a demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and lead teams effectively.

Languages:
A good command of spoken and written French is mandatory, while knowledge of English as a working language is desirable. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

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, LGBTQIA+ individuals, 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.