Deputy Representative Programme, P-5, Ankara, Türkiye #87005

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The Deputy Representative Programme reports to the Representative and serves as the principal adviser on the overall management of the Country Office (CO), development of CO policies, and programme planning and implementation. This role is crucial in overseeing programme and partnership functions, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and UNICEF's global goals. The Deputy Representative plays a key role in navigating the complexities of a strategically important upper middle-income country like Türkiye, which hosts significant refugee populations and is undergoing recovery from recent devastating earthquakes. The position requires an integrated approach to combine emergency response, resilience building, and systems strengthening to ensure vulnerable children are protected, included, and able to realize their full potential.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Representative Programme reports to the CO Representative for general supervision and direction. The Deputy Representative serves as the principal adviser on the overall management of the CO, development of CO policies, and programme planning and implementation. This includes overseeing the development and management of programme strategies, ensuring their alignment with national priorities and UNICEF's global mandates. The role involves direct oversight of both programme and partnership functions, fostering strong relationships with government counterparts, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. A key responsibility is to contribute to the Country Office's strategic direction, particularly in transitioning to a High Income country context and adapting UNICEF's modus operandi. The Deputy Representative will also be instrumental in managing programme resources effectively, monitoring progress, and ensuring accountability. This includes leading efforts in areas such as child protection, social policy, adolescent development, education, and health, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups, refugees, and earthquake-affected populations. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying emerging needs and opportunities for intervention, and advocating for children's rights and well-being.

Work Experience

A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in programme management, development, and implementation, with a significant portion in a developing country context. Experience in humanitarian response and/or working with refugee populations is highly desirable.

Skills

Programme Management, Strategic Planning, Partnership Building, Stakeholder Engagement, Humanitarian Response, Child Protection, Social Policy Analysis, Advocacy, Resource Mobilization, Cross-cultural Communication, Leadership, Monitoring and Evaluation

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