Senior Planning Associate
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The Caribbean Multi-Country Office (MCO) serves twelve English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries, focusing on equitable access to primary health care, learning and skills; protection from violence; and child poverty reduction and resilience strengthening.
Job Purpose
The Senior Planning Associate (GS7) in Suriname reports to the Planning and Monitoring Specialist (NOC) in Jamaica within the MCO Programme Coordination working group. This role is crucial for managing all phases of the multi-country programme cycle, from design to results delivery, ensuring the Caribbean MCO functions as a unified programme across 12 countries. The position provides integrated leadership in planning, budgeting, implementation, HACT assurance, monitoring, and reporting, enabling efficient utilization of programme resources to achieve UNICEF's mission for children in the region. The role supports the strategic backbone of the MCO's operational model, contributing to depth over duplication and shared capacity over fragmented country-by-country coverage.
Responsibilities
Support the Planning and Monitoring Specialist in managing the full programme cycle, including planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting for the UNICEF Caribbean Multi-Country Office (MCO) across 12 countries. Assist in the development and refinement of integrated work plans, ensuring alignment with the Multi-Country Programme Document and strategic priorities. Contribute to the preparation of programme documents, proposals, and reports for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Support the coordination of programme activities across different working groups and country offices, fostering collaboration and information sharing. Assist in the monitoring of programme implementation, tracking progress against indicators, identifying potential risks and challenges, and recommending corrective actions. Participate in the HACT assurance process, supporting the planning and execution of micro-assessments and audits. Help in the preparation of financial and programmatic reports, ensuring compliance with UNICEF's financial rules and regulations. Support the organization of meetings, workshops, and training sessions related to programme planning and monitoring. Maintain programme records and databases, ensuring efficient information management and accessibility. Contribute to the continuous improvement of planning and monitoring processes and tools within the MCO, promoting efficiency and effectiveness.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in programme planning, monitoring, and reporting, preferably within a UN or international development context. Experience in supporting multi-country programmes or complex projects is desirable.
Skills
Programme Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Budget Management, Reporting, Data Analysis, Coordination, Stakeholder Engagement, Information Management, UNICEF Procedures, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Problem-Solving