Pacific Gender Research Coordinator
Organizational Context
UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, aims to create a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. It champions gender equality and empowers women and girls. In the Asia-Pacific region, high rates of violence against women (VAW) persist, with significant gaps in data literacy and utilization. UNFPA's kNOwVAWdata initiative, in partnership with DFAT, is launching Phase III to build comprehensive VAW data ecosystems and drive evidence-based policy and programming across the Pacific.
Job Purpose
The Pacific Gender Research Coordinator will play a crucial role within UNFPA's PSRO Gender and Human Rights section, focusing on coordinating Violence Against Women (VAW) data and Gender/GBV research initiatives in the Pacific. This position supports regional knowledge management, donor reporting, and inter-agency research coordination. The role is vital for bridging gaps in data literacy, utilization, and integration across various data sources. By fostering a holistic approach to VAW data, the coordinator will ensure it is effectively analyzed and used for evidence-based decision-making, contributing to tangible policy and programming impact across the region through the kNOwVAWdata initiative.
Responsibilities
The Pacific Gender Research Coordinator will coordinate and support UNFPA's research on Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and related Gender research in the Pacific, reporting to the PSRO Gender and Human Rights Advisor. Key responsibilities include programmatic coordination between UNFPA offices and the kNOwVAWdata initiative, and leading operational and administrative management of VAWG research projects. The role involves providing technical and programmatic support to implementing partners for research design, data collection, analysis, and use. Additionally, the coordinator will lead the drafting and review of donor reports for DFAT and other committees, and collaborate on creating compelling impact stories and technical briefs. They will also facilitate knowledge exchange opportunities on VAWG data and gender/GBV research, document lessons learned, and contribute to developing a human resource plan by compiling rosters of regional experts and supporting recruitment for national staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience is required in areas such as programme support, coordination, knowledge management, research, international development, donor reporting, or strategic communications. Demonstrated experience in research and analysis within development or humanitarian contexts is essential. Experience preparing high-quality reports for UN agencies or international donors is highly desirable, as is prior work with UN agencies or international organizations focused on gender equality, GBV, public health, or development programming in the Pacific.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organization, professionalism, and self-management. Essential skills involve strong written and spoken English, excellent editorial and communication abilities for translating complex findings, proficiency in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, and the ability to establish effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders. Experience with web content management systems and design tools is desirable.