Regional Adviser, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that 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 approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the Asia and Pacific region.

Job Overview:
The Regional Adviser for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) is a pivotal role within the Asia and the Pacific Regional Office of UNFPA, based in Bangkok. This position is responsible for providing strategic policy, technical, and advocacy advice on health, SRHR, and HIV. The adviser will work closely with technical and program staff to support the implementation of UNFPA's strategic plan, which focuses on ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence. The role requires a strong commitment to human rights and the ability to navigate complex intergovernmental and interagency environments to promote SRHR and the ICPD agenda. The adviser will also engage in evidence-based advocacy and policy development to support national and local implementation of global commitments, ensuring that marginalized and vulnerable groups are prioritized in health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Regional Adviser will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Leading strategic policy, technical, and advocacy engagement on health, SRHR, and HIV to promote the rights of women and young people, as well as marginalized and vulnerable groups.
• Providing quality control of technical support, including monitoring and oversight, and capacity development in health, SRHR, and HIV policy and advocacy.
• Developing and disseminating evidence and knowledge to advance health, SRHR, and gender equality.
• Managing and coordinating knowledge and advocacy networks and partnerships.
• Representing UNFPA in policy dialogues and advocating for health, SRHR, and HIV in various international and regional forums.
• Analyzing regional and national trends to provide strategic advice and insights to advance policy and advocacy priorities.
• Collaborating with country offices and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of UNFPA's strategies and initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree or equivalent (preferably a Ph.D.) in public health, social sciences, medicine, health systems/economics, or a related field. They should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in health, SRHR, and HIV policy and advocacy, with a minimum of seven years at the international level. Proven experience in policy-making and advocacy, particularly in reproductive health and family planning, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a strong understanding of human rights and gender equality dimensions in health, as well as experience in health systems and health reform. Familiarity with humanitarian settings and disaster-prone contexts is desirable, along with a strong track record of strategic leadership and excellent communication skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as public health, social sciences, or health systems/economics is required. A Ph.D. is preferred, indicating a high level of expertise and knowledge in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in health, SRHR, and HIV, with at least seven years at the international level. Experience in policy-making processes at national or regional government levels is an asset, as is familiarity with management and monitoring tools. Field experience, particularly in the Asia and Pacific region, is strongly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of an additional UN language is considered an asset. Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for effective advocacy and representation.

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, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and equal opportunities in all aspects of employment.