National Social Policy Specialist

Organizational Context

The UNOPS Africa Regional Office supports national priorities across 40 countries through strategic initiatives in areas like Health, Infrastructure, and Climate Action. In Malawi, UNOPS partners with organizations like the EU and British Council to develop Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres. This role is situated within the UNICEF Malawi Country Office, with UNOPS providing recruitment and administrative support.

Job Purpose

The Social Policy Specialist (PFM) will provide crucial technical and programmatic support to UNICEF Malawi's efforts in enhancing public investments in social sectors. This involves strategic planning, formulation, and delivery of results for children, focusing on improving social sector financing, particularly social protection. The role aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and oversight of public finances at national and sub-national levels. Additionally, it will generate evidence on social sector financing and Public Finance Management (PFM) to inform policy and programming, ultimately contributing to the progressive realization of children's rights in Malawi.

Responsibilities

The Social Policy Specialist (PFM) will lead the development and rollout of the Social Protection Financing Strategy (SPFS) and provide quality assurance for budget analysis for the 2026/27 fiscal year. This includes ensuring the production of quality budget briefs for key sectors (National, Education, Health, WASH, Social Protection) with accompanying advocacy strategies. The role will also support the timely production and publication of the 2026/27 Citizens Budget for the Ministry of Finance, including a social media campaign for public engagement. Furthermore, the specialist will oversee a consultancy on public debt analysis and support the National Statistical Office in conducting a Multiple Overlapping Deprivation Analysis (MODA) to inform policy. Programme management responsibilities include providing ongoing support to implementing partners for effective planning, implementation, and expenditure, proactively addressing bottlenecks.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of work experience with a Master's degree (or seven years with a Bachelor's degree) in public financial management and budget analysis is required. Proven experience in upstream Public Finance Management, working with line ministries and the Ministry of Finance, is essential. Experience in preparing budget analysis, investment cases, or evidence generation for social protection and social sectors is also required, along with knowledge of Malawi's social protection system.

Skills

Analytical Skills, Budget Analysis, Budget Management, Development Economics, Program Management, Public Finance

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