Senior National Consultant - Disaster Risk Reduction RR, Field Operations and Emergency section, 6 months, Damascus, Syria (Nationals only) On-site with travel

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of children's rights as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development in a passionate and diverse culture.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen national disaster risk reduction (DRR) and emergency preparedness systems in Syria, a country highly vulnerable to natural and human-induced hazards. Years of crisis have weakened institutional systems and community resilience, increasing risks for children. The consultant will be embedded within the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management (MoEDM) to ensure close engagement and real-time coordination with national and local stakeholders. This role requires deep familiarity with Syria's DRR and Early Action landscape, including its institutional architecture, policy frameworks, and implementation challenges. By providing dedicated, context-sensitive support directly to MoEDM, UNICEF will enhance its strategic positioning and capacity to assist the Ministry in reducing vulnerabilities, improving coordinated response, and supporting sustainable recovery efforts.

Responsibilities

The Senior National Consultant will be fully integrated into the daily operations and meetings of the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management (MoEDM), ensuring continuous engagement and real-time coordination with various ministries and key national and local stakeholders. The consultant will provide direct, on-site support to MoEDM, contributing to the strengthening of national disaster risk reduction (DRR) and emergency preparedness systems. This involves deep familiarity with Syria’s evolving DRR and Early Action landscape, including its institutional architecture, policy frameworks, and implementation challenges. The role requires a high degree of technical and political acumen, responsiveness, and a consistent daily presence. Key responsibilities include facilitating coordination among stakeholders, advising on policy and strategy development, supporting the implementation of DRR initiatives, and contributing to the enhancement of institutional capacities. The consultant will also play a crucial role in bridging the gap between UNICEF’s strategic objectives and the operational needs of MoEDM, ensuring that UNICEF’s support is high-quality, context-sensitive, and effectively contributes to reducing vulnerabilities, improving coordinated response, and supporting sustainable recovery for children and communities.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in DRR, Early Action, public policy in Syria, government structures and/or governance, external/donor relations, or advocacy.

Skills

Familiarity with national systems and global DRR frameworks, Strong coordination and facilitation skills, Experience with national and international key stakeholders, Experience with government entities, Experience in a UN system (asset), Experience with UNICEF (asset), Experience with international development agencies (asset), Experience in donor relations (asset), Experience in donor reporting (asset), Public policy analysis, Emergency preparedness, Stakeholder engagement

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