Local Education Group (LEG) Secretariat Coordinator
Organizational Context
UNICEF Syria operates on the ground with strong partnerships to reach children and families, upholding humanitarian principles through integrated, multi-sectoral programming. The Ministry of Education is leading efforts to restore and transform the education system amidst crisis, aiming for safe, inclusive, and quality education for all. The Local Education Group (LEG), a Ministry-led platform, enhances sector planning, coordination, and decision-making, supported by a dedicated Secretariat to strengthen government leadership and partner alignment.
Job Purpose
This UN Volunteer Expert role is crucial for leading the Local Education Group (LEG) Secretariat in Syria. The primary purpose is to ensure effective strategic and policy dialogue between the Ministry of Education and national/international partners. The incumbent will oversee the implementation of LEG decisions, ensuring all outputs align with national education priorities. This involves providing strategic leadership and oversight of the Secretariat's governance, annual planning, and high-level policy discussions. The role also encompasses leading strategic reporting, knowledge product development, stakeholder engagement, and coordination with UN agencies, donors, and other partners to advance Syria's education recovery and reform agenda.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer will lead and supervise the LEG Secretariat team, developing the annual work plan in coordination with Ministry leadership and Co-Chairs. Responsibilities include ensuring compliance with LEG governance and operational procedures, and updating frameworks as needed. The role involves facilitating high-level strategic and policy dialogue to address key sector issues. Additionally, the incumbent will lead the development of policy briefs and strategic papers, monitor the alignment of partner interventions with the national education plan, and oversee the preparation of consolidated reports on Group performance. The UN Volunteer will also represent the Secretariat in official communications, coordinate with other education sector mechanisms, and manage stakeholder engagement with UN agencies, donors, and organizations.
Work Experience
A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in education sector planning, policy, or management at the national level is required. This includes substantial experience in education sector planning, policy development, coordination, or program management, preferably in development, humanitarian, recovery, or transition contexts. Experience in leading multi-stakeholder coordination mechanisms and facilitating high-level policy dialogue is essential. Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Arabic is highly desirable.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organizing, professionalism, and self-management. Strong skills in communication, advocacy, public information, and education are also required. The role demands proven ability to facilitate high-level policy dialogue, build consensus, and manage sensitive issues with diplomacy. Experience in stakeholder engagement and coordination is crucial.