Innovative Financing and Resource Mobilization Specialist, FGM Joint Programme, Division for External Relations, Nairobi, P-4 (232349)

Organizational Context

UNFPA is the UN agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and population data, operating in over 150 countries. It champions gender equality and empowers women, girls, and young people. The agency collaborates with UNICEF on joint programmes to eliminate harmful practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This role is within the Division for External Relations, focusing on mobilizing resources for the FGM Joint Programme.

Job Purpose

This role is crucial for addressing the significant funding gap in the global effort to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) by 2030. The Specialist will lead efforts to mobilize sustainable financing, exploring innovative modalities beyond traditional Official Development Assistance. By diversifying UNFPA's resource architecture and exploring new financing mechanisms, the position aims to secure the necessary investment to scale rights-based, evidence-driven programmes. The goal is to close persistent funding gaps and ensure the successful implementation of the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme for the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation.

Responsibilities

The Specialist will design financial deals and secure new funding streams from bilateral and emerging donors, moving beyond traditional fundraising to create innovative models like shared-investment agreements and matching-fund structures. They will actively engage market-driven investors, including private foundations and philanthropists, by developing compelling pitch packages that translate complex financial data into attractive investment opportunities. The role involves leading the entire deal-making process from pitch to legal agreement to ensure new funding models are launched. Additionally, the Specialist will map global markets to identify funding entry points, track donor policies to mitigate risks, and provide technical assistance to regional and country teams on local private sector investments and domestic government funding, ensuring the long-term sustainability of FGM programmes.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional work experience in complex partnership management involving resource mobilization and/or innovative financing. Proven capacity for innovation, experience in public/private advocacy, and a strong track record of high-level negotiation and advocacy are required. Experience with UN agencies or international aid organizations is desirable.

Skills

Integrity, commitment to UNFPA/UN system, cultural diversity, adaptability, results-orientation, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, teamwork, and self-management. Proficiency in English and Spanish is required.

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