Deputy Representative, Niamey, Niger, P-5

Organizational Context

UNFPA is the lead United Nations agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to fulfill its mandate through the 2030 Agenda and the ICPD Programme of Action. The Deputy Representative role is integral to the UNFPA country programme, fostering partnerships with governments, UN agencies, and civil society to advance development goals. The position is based in Niamey, Niger, and reports to the UNFPA Representative.

Job Purpose

The Deputy Representative plays a pivotal role in strengthening national capacity to implement the ICPD Programme of Action and achieve Sustainable Development Goals. In collaboration with the Country Representative, this role is accountable for the development and management of an innovative country programme focused on population and development, and universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights. This includes maternal health, family planning, gender equality, and adolescent and youth empowerment. The Deputy Representative champions the integration of sexual and reproductive health and rights into the national development agenda through advocacy, engagement with national counterparts, and effective programme delivery, including in emergency settings, thereby validating UNFPA's mandate and its capacity for high-quality results.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Representative leads the development, management, and monitoring of the Country Programme, ensuring alignment with UNFPA's strategic plan and national policies. This involves assessing national trends, expanding the programme portfolio, and establishing quality standards for project delivery. Responsibilities include overseeing monitoring and evaluation, ensuring lessons learned are incorporated, and leading the integration of UNFPA's mandate into national humanitarian preparedness and response plans. The role also focuses on developing national capacity for ICPD commitments, promoting health system strengthening, and fostering an enabling environment for rights-based policies. Building and maintaining partnerships with government, donors, and UN agencies is crucial, as is advocating for the ICPD agenda and pursuing resource mobilization opportunities. The Deputy Representative supports the Country Representative in managing office operations, staff, and resources, ensuring compliance with security standards and fostering a culture of performance and development.

Work Experience

Requires 10 years of progressive professional experience in public administration and international development, including programme design, appraisal, and management. At least 8 years must be in population and development, sexual and reproductive health, or humanitarian work at the international level. Experience in advocacy, policy dialogue, leading teams, and field experience in developing or humanitarian contexts is essential.

Skills

Core competencies include achieving results, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. Managerial competencies involve strategic focus, stakeholder engagement, leadership, and decision-making. The role requires embodying integrity, commitment to UNFPA and UN principles, cultural diversity, and embracing change. Strong advocacy, partnership-building, and resource mobilization skills are essential.

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