Chief, Data and Analytics Branch, Programme Division (PD), Nairobi, Kenya, D-1

Organizational Context

UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, is seeking a Chief of Data and Analytics Branch in Nairobi, Kenya. Reporting to the Director of the Programme Division, this role serves as UNFPA’s Chief Statistician, leading the organization's work across the entire data value chain. The position is crucial for ensuring high-quality, disaggregated data informs policy, advocacy, and programming, aligning with the ICPD Programme of Action and the SDGs.

Job Purpose

The Chief of Data and Analytics Branch is responsible for driving UNFPA’s global data and analytics agenda, ensuring the delivery of authoritative, policy-relevant, and forward-looking population intelligence. This involves leading UNFPA’s Data Strategy and governance, overseeing the transformation of data systems from collection to use, and advancing innovation in areas like digital censuses and AI-enabled analytics. The role also encompasses leading evidence generation for flagship reports, strengthening national statistical systems, and mobilizing strategic partnerships and financial resources to scale data and innovation investments, thereby positioning UNFPA as a global leader in population data and demographic intelligence.

Responsibilities

The Chief provides strategic direction and technical leadership for UNFPA’s data and analytics agenda, acting as the principal advisor to senior management on population data, statistics, and geospatial intelligence. This includes leading the implementation of UNFPA’s corporate Data Strategy and positioning the organization as a global leader in modern population data systems. The role oversees global evidence generation, including substantive contributions to the State of the World Population Report, and promotes innovative data visualization and dissemination. Furthermore, the Chief leads support for foundational population data systems, driving modernization through digital transformation and innovation, and advancing the use of AI and machine learning. Strategic engagement with global partners, system leadership in data governance, and strengthening statistical capacity in national systems are also key responsibilities, alongside leading resource mobilization efforts for the data and analytics agenda.

Work Experience

Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in public administration and international development, with at least 8 years at the international level in data, statistics, population, or related fields. Requires recognized technical authority and thought leadership in population data, statistics, or demographic analysis, with expertise in AI and geospatial analytics. Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and a strong track record in resource mobilization and global partnerships are essential.

Skills

Core competencies include achieving results, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, teamwork, and communication. Functional competencies involve advocacy, results-based programme management, partnership building, innovation, and technical expertise. Managerial competencies focus on strategic direction, stakeholder engagement, people leadership, and decision-making. Proficiency in data science, AI, geospatial analysis, and statistical methodologies is critical.

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