Deputy Representative

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 rights of individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to improve the lives of millions, especially those who are marginalized or disadvantaged.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Representative at UNFPA plays a crucial role in the formulation and delivery of the UNFPA country programme, directly supervised by the UNFPA Representative. This position is pivotal in ensuring the day-to-day operations of the Country Office (CO) are effectively managed. The Deputy Representative is expected to lead the country’s capacity to implement the ICPD Programme of Action, aligning it with national development efforts to achieve the SDGs. This role involves promoting the integration of population, sexual and reproductive health, and gender issues into the broader development agenda. The Deputy Representative will also supervise Country Office staff and is responsible for fostering partnerships with various stakeholders, including governments, UN agencies, and civil society, to realize the goals of the UNFPA programme. The position requires a strong commitment to ethical standards and the ability to inspire and lead teams towards achieving high-impact results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Representative's duties include ensuring the quality development and delivery of integrated technical and programmatic support that meets country needs and achieves ICPD goals and SDGs. Responsibilities encompass assessing national trends and their implications for UNFPA's work, consulting with government and civil society on national priorities, and recommending areas of assistance based on demographic and socio-economic data. The Deputy Representative will provide inputs for the development of global/regional strategic plans, manage the Country Programme in line with the strategic plan, and oversee technical assistance to partners. Additionally, the role involves implementing capacity-building strategies, enhancing partnerships and advocacy efforts, ensuring effective resource management, and supervising international and national programme staff. The Deputy Representative will also participate in the UN Common Country Assessment and the UN Development Assistance Framework exercises, contributing to broader UN reform initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or advanced university degree in fields such as Public Health, Medicine, Sociology, Demography, Gender, International Relations, International Development, Economics, Public Administration, Management, or related areas. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in development and population activities is required, including programme design, appraisal, and management. Experience in humanitarian contexts is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to lead and manage teams effectively, possess excellent communication skills in both French and English, and have a strong interest in development work aligned with UNFPA's mission. Proficiency in current office software applications is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Public Health, Medicine, Sociology, Demography, Gender, International Relations, International Development, Economics, Public Administration, Management, or other related disciplines. This advanced education is essential to equip candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to address complex issues related to population and development effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in development and population activities. This experience should include programme design, appraisal, and management, with a strong emphasis on aligning organizational objectives with national priorities and capacities. Experience in humanitarian settings is advantageous, as is field experience, which is considered a strong asset. Proven leadership and team management skills are critical for achieving demonstrable results in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in French (reading, writing, and speaking) is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of English (reading, writing, and speaking). These language skills are essential for fostering engaged partnerships and maintaining political relationships at a high level within the assigned country.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization is committed to gender parity and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA emphasizes equal opportunities in appointment, training, compensation, and selection processes. 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.