Director, Regional Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) 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 mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization emphasizes the importance of reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).

Job Overview:
The Director of the Regional Office in Panama City is responsible for providing strategic vision, direction, and leadership for UNFPA's operations in Latin America and the Caribbean. This role involves serving as a senior adviser on regional matters, supervising the Regional Office and Sub-regional offices, and ensuring that the office fulfills its terms of reference. The Director will lead the strategic positioning of UNFPA in the region, advocate for political and financial support for ICPD goals, and oversee policy support and operations to ensure the effectiveness of integrated programs. The position requires a strong commitment to human rights and ethical standards, as well as the ability to inspire and deliver high-impact results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director's responsibilities include providing continuous feedback to the Executive Director on regional trends, formulating and updating UNFPA's long-term vision and strategic plans, leading the development of regional strategies, and ensuring collaboration among various UNFPA offices. The Director will act as the principal adviser on regional issues, ensuring high-quality program support, and representing UNFPA in regional and international initiatives. Additionally, the Director will oversee the implementation of regional and country programs, ensuring compliance with results-based management frameworks, and will be accountable for the management of the Regional Office's resources, including financial allocations and mobilization strategies. The role also involves supervising senior staff, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring adherence to ethical management practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree, preferably a PhD, in fields such as Public Health, Medicine, Sociology, Demography, Gender, International Relations, International Development, Economics, or Public Administration. They should have over 15 years of progressively responsible experience in public administration and international development, with at least 10 years in population and development at the international level. A deep understanding of the political, social, and economic landscape of Latin America and the Caribbean is essential, along with a proven track record of leadership in development programs and the ability to motivate a diverse team. Excellent communication skills in both English and Spanish are required, and field experience is crucial.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (preferably PhD) in relevant fields such as Public Health, Medicine, Sociology, Demography, Gender, International Relations, International Development, Economics, or Public Administration is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the issues related to population and development, as well as the skills needed to lead and manage complex programs effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have over 15 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in public administration and international development, with at least 10 years specifically in the field of population and development at the international level. This extensive experience is necessary to navigate the complexities of the regional landscape and to lead effectively within the UN system. A strong track record of leadership in development programs and the ability to manage and motivate a diverse team are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary languages used in the region. Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate and collaborate with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment for a duration of five years, with the possibility of extension for one additional year at the discretion of the Executive Director. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities, including the management of resources and personnel. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The organization offers a competitive remuneration package, including health insurance and other benefits, and emphasizes the importance of gender equality and a healthy work-life balance.