Census Programme Coordination Specialist
Organizational Context
The Democratic Republic of Congo is conducting its second General Population and Housing Census, a national priority for which UNFPA is the lead UN agency. UNFPA manages a multi-donor fund to support this initiative, requiring coordination with national institutions, donors, and UN partners. The Census Programme Coordination Specialist reports to the UNFPA Representative and Deputy Representative, driving day-to-day management and stakeholder coordination for the UNFPA Census Support Project.
Job Purpose
The Census Programme Coordination Specialist is responsible for ensuring the efficient, transparent, and aligned management of UNFPA's technical, financial, and operational support for the DRC Census. This role acts as a crucial link between the technical aspects of census operations, the fiduciary and operational support mechanisms, and the coordination of high-level stakeholders and donors. The specialist ensures that all activities align with national development priorities and adhere to United Nations standards, contributing to the successful execution of this critical national undertaking.
Responsibilities
The Census Programme Coordination Specialist leads the operational management of the UNFPA Census Support Project, ensuring alignment with the National Census Strategy and work plans, and monitoring progress against milestones and deadlines. This includes establishing risk management protocols and ensuring integration between technical teams and UNFPA operations for timely procurement and deployment. The specialist serves as the primary liaison with national census bodies and UN agencies, facilitating governance structures and leveraging operational synergies. They also lead the operational coordination of the multi-donor fund, manage donor reporting, and drive resource mobilization efforts, while monitoring budget utilization and ensuring compliance with financial rules. Furthermore, the role involves establishing an M&E framework, conducting field monitoring missions, facilitating reviews and evaluations, and supervising project coordination staff, while also coordinating advocacy and communication plans to build public confidence and support for the census.
Work Experience
Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in international program management, project coordination, or operational leadership within the UN system, international organizations, or government frameworks. Proven experience coordinating large-scale national development initiatives or population censuses, managing multi-donor trust funds, and donor reporting is required. Experience in complex settings is desirable.
Skills
Programme Management & Coordination, Resource Mobilization & Donor Relations, Advocacy & Partner Engagement, strategic thinking, analytical skills, communication, integrity, accountability, and commitment to UNFPA's mandate.