Programme Specialist (Polio Team Lead), P-4

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children’s lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization views promoting the rights of every child not just as a job, but as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal growth, fostering a culture of inclusion and purpose while serving children and communities worldwide. It provides an attractive compensation and benefits package and encourages applicants who wish to grow within a diverse and passionate environment.

In Pakistan, UNICEF plays a critical role in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), as one of the last two polio-endemic countries globally. Working closely with local governments and NGOs, UNICEF is committed to eradicating polio through sustained immunization, community engagement, and comprehensive health communication strategies. Reporting to the Chief of Field Office, the Programme Specialist will lead polio eradication efforts in the province, managing the polio team and representing UNICEF at the provincial Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). This position demands strong management skills and proven experience in leading Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) strategies aligned with the GPEI and Pakistan’s National Emergency Action Plan (NEAP).

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and oversee the polio eradication programme within the Karachi office, including planning, designing, implementing, and administering SBCC initiatives.
- Advise, supervise, and facilitate the work of the Polio Eradication Team to ensure the achievement of programme objectives.
- Represent UNICEF in the provincial Emergency Operations Centre and coordinate activities with government and partner agencies.
- Support programme activities in line with Technical Advisory Group guidance and the GPEI strategy to halt polio transmission.
- Provide technical advisory services and support to ensure effective programme delivery and results monitoring.
- Foster advocacy, networking, and partnership building to strengthen polio eradication efforts.
- Promote innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building within the team and partner organizations.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree in Social Behaviour Change Communications, Communications, Social Sciences, International Relations, Government, Public Administration, Public Policy, Social Policy, Social Development, Community Development, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of eight years of relevant experience with a proven track record in leading large SBCC programmes and projects.
- Fluency in English is required.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Demonstrated experience in polio eradication programmes is essential due to the emergency nature of this technical assistance role.
- Experience or familiarity with emergency response is an asset.
- Proven ability to manage large teams and oversee resources effectively.
- Experience working within a UN system agency or similar international organization is advantageous.
- Knowledge of additional UN official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) or local languages is considered an asset.
- UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities, and flexible working arrangements.
- The organization promotes an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.
- UNICEF maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward conduct incompatible with UN values, including sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination.
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history.
- Medical clearance and required inoculations, including COVID-19 vaccination or approved exemptions, are conditions of employment.
- Mobility and potential deployment to humanitarian contexts are integral to the role.

UNICEF is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace that reflects the children it serves. The organization values integrity, accountability, and sustainability in all its operations and expects staff to uphold these principles. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global health and child rights in a dynamic and impactful environment.