Programme Specialist, Head of Tamale Sub-Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading organization in the field of reproductive health and rights, established to promote the well-being of individuals and families around the world. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates in over 150 countries, with a focus on addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action, emphasizing the importance of gender equality and women's empowerment. UNFPA has a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist, Head of Tamale Sub-Office, plays a crucial role in overseeing project formulation and evaluation, as well as joint programming initiatives that align with national development frameworks. This position requires strong leadership skills to manage the programme team in Tamale and collaborate effectively with the Country Office’s operations and administrative support staff. The incumbent will report directly to the Deputy Representative and will be responsible for ensuring that UNFPA activities in Tamale and surrounding regions are effectively managed in accordance with the Ghana Country Programme Document (CPD) 2023-202

• The role emphasizes the importance of addressing critical issues such as preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, particularly for vulnerable populations including women and young people. The Programme Specialist will also engage with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, NGOs, and civil society, to advocate for policies that support the ICPD Programme of Action and UNFPA’s transformative goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties including advocacy and resource mobilization, programme management and coordination, and sub-office management and leadership. In terms of advocacy, the incumbent will analyze the socio-economic and political context in Tamale, advocate for supportive policies, and engage in resource mobilization efforts. The role also involves coordinating the implementation of UNFPA-supported programmes, ensuring compliance with corporate policies, and leading humanitarian preparedness and response interventions. Additionally, the Programme Specialist will promote a learning environment within the sub-office, foster team-building, and ensure effective knowledge management strategies are in place. The incumbent will also supervise and guide regional and local staff, ensuring high standards of staff management and capacity building.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Development Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, Public Health, Population Studies, or a related social science discipline. They should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in development management, including programme design, appraisal, and budget management. Strong interpersonal, negotiating, and intercultural communication skills are essential, along with a proven ability to manage complex programmes and produce demonstrable results. Experience in advocacy and policy dialogue is desirable, and familiarity with the UN system is an asset. Candidates should also have experience using Microsoft Office software and web-based management systems.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as Development Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, Public Health, Population Studies, 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 effectively manage and implement UNFPA programmes in Tamale and surrounding regions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in development management. This includes experience in programme design, appraisal, budget management, and coordination with various stakeholders such as government counterparts, NGOs, and development partners. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of programme leadership and the ability to manage complex programmes effectively. Field experience is considered an asset, as is prior experience within the UN system.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, which may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. 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, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The selection and appointment process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.