Local Consultancy:Strategic Coordination Consultant: Sexual and Reproductive Justice (SRJ) , South Africa, Pretoria

Organizational Context

UNFPA is the UN agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming for a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The South Africa Country Office supports the implementation of the national Sexual and Reproductive Justice (SRJ) Strategy, focusing on bodily autonomy and rights-based healthcare. This role contributes to strengthening national coordination and accelerating SRHR/SRJ priorities.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen national coordination and accelerate the implementation of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Sexual and Reproductive Justice (SRJ) priorities in South Africa. The role will support the Department of Social Development (DSD) in executing the national SRJ Strategy and establish a centralized information and knowledge hub for SRHR/SRJ data. By fostering evidence-based decision-making, policy development, advocacy, and programmatic interventions, the consultancy will enhance collaboration among stakeholders and champion the integration of SRJ across government sectors, ultimately contributing to improved socio-economic, health, and institutional conditions for all, particularly women and vulnerable groups.

Responsibilities

The consultant will provide technical and operational support to the Department of Social Development (DSD) for the National Sexual and Reproductive Justice (SRJ) Strategy, including regular alignment meetings, input into the implementation plan, and participation in technical committee meetings. Responsibilities include supporting DSD in assessing sector department alignment with SRJ and co-developing a 'SRJ Webinar Series' to facilitate policy dialogue. A key duty is leading the establishment of the SRHR/SRJ knowledge hub by conducting stakeholder prioritization, confirming participation, designing a governance structure, developing a Programme Charter, establishing a meeting cadence, and creating a shared digital coordination space. Additionally, the consultant will clean and organize the UNFPA stakeholder database into a usable coordination tool.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of progressive professional experience in program management, policy development, or strategic implementation within public health, human rights, or social development sectors. Demonstrated technical knowledge of SRHR and SRJ, experience managing relationships with government stakeholders (DSD), UN agencies, CSOs, and academic institutions, and experience establishing knowledge management systems or digital hubs are required.

Skills

Core competencies include achieving results, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, and teamwork. Behavioral competencies include integrity, commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, embracing cultural diversity, and embracing change. Technical skills involve program management, policy development, strategic implementation, knowledge management systems, and stakeholder relationship management.

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