National Consultant: National Research Coordinator - Solomon Islands

Organizational Context

UNFPA is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. This role supports the Solomon Islands Government's commitment to addressing the well-being of women and girls by facilitating a national study on women’s well-being. The consultant will work under the guidance of the UNFPA Head of Office and report to the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs.

Job Purpose

The National Research Coordinator will facilitate the day-to-day coordination, management, monitoring, and reporting of a national study on women’s well-being. This involves systematic engagement with government ministries, civil society, and development partners to manage stakeholder expectations and foster strategic alliances. The role ensures that project interventions are implemented in accordance with the highest national and global ethical and safety standards, contributing to evidence-based programming for Gender Equality in the Solomon Islands.

Responsibilities

The role involves strategic coordination and governance support, acting as the operational hub for the Research Coordination Team and providing secretariat support to the Steering Committee and Technical Advisory Group. Responsibilities include managing information flow and synthesizing updates for diverse stakeholders. Operations, documentation, and project management are key, requiring the production and archiving of research documentation, monitoring timelines, and coordinating logistical requirements for training and fieldwork. Financial and programmatic tracking of the project budget, procurement support, and mentoring enumerators for quality data collection are also essential. Fieldwork supervision includes oversight of risk management protocols and ensuring respondent safety and ethical guidelines are followed. The role also supports data processing, report drafting, and coordinating dissemination activities, including a national launch event.

Work Experience

Requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in project management, research coordination, or social program implementation. Deep familiarity with the Solomon Islands Government context, including established relationships with key ministries, is essential. Prior UN system experience, particularly with UNFPA procedures, is strongly preferred. Knowledge of gender-based violence (GBV) and ethical survey practices is important.

Skills

Key skills include project management, research coordination, stakeholder engagement, communication, and diplomacy. Proficiency in MS Office and collaborative digital workspaces is required. Behavioral competencies include integrity, accountability, analytical thinking, and teamwork. Functional competencies involve results-based management, data management, political acumen, and building strategic alliances.

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