Programme Specialist - Sexual Reproductive Health in Emergencies

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, 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 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 services, and it calls for a collective effort to build forward better in the face of ongoing challenges.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist for Sexual Reproductive Health in Emergencies (SRHiE) will be based in the UNFPA DRC sub-country office in Goma. This role is pivotal in supporting the implementation of UNFPA's humanitarian interventions related to sexual and reproductive health. The specialist will act as the focal point for the roll-out of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health in emergencies, ensuring that these services are integrated into humanitarian responses. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government partners, NGOs, and donor agencies, to ensure effective program delivery and to address emerging issues in the field of sexual and reproductive health. The specialist will also oversee the SRHiE program team and coordinate the SRH Working Group in Nord Kivu, ensuring that UNFPA's mandate is achieved through effective management and strategic partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include:

• Programme Development and Planning: Providing technical guidance on SRHiE interventions, leading the implementation of MISP, supporting maternal and neonatal health interventions, and collaborating with government and NGOs to align projects with national priorities.
• Programme Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting: Analyzing program progress, conducting field visits, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with SRH standards.
• Coordination: Facilitating coordination among RH stakeholders, participating in humanitarian coordination mechanisms, and establishing partnerships with executing agencies and government counterparts.
• Financial Management: Managing financial resources allocated to the Reproductive Health Programme, conducting budget reviews, and ensuring compliance with UNFPA norms.
• Capacity Building: Providing training and mentorship to health authorities and frontline workers, and strengthening community health worker programs to enhance demand for SRH services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Medicine, Public Health, Reproductive Health, Global Health, or related fields. A Medical Doctor (MD) with experience in maternal and neonatal health is an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in SRH program management, health system strengthening, or humanitarian response, with proven experience in MISP implementation, family planning, and maternal health. Familiarity with health financing, supply chain management, and digital health innovations is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Medicine, Public Health, Reproductive Health, or Global Health. A Medical Doctor (MD) is preferred, particularly with experience in maternal and neonatal health.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in sexual and reproductive health program management, health system strengthening, or humanitarian response. Candidates should have a strong background in implementing the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP), family planning, and maternal health services. Experience working with government institutions, NGOs, and donor agencies is essential, along with familiarity with GBV response and humanitarian health coordination mechanisms.

Languages:
Fluency in French (spoken and written) is mandatory for this position, while a working knowledge of English is highly desirable. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary appointment for a duration of 9 months. The 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, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements.