Programme Specialist (IOCAFRICA Secretariat) at UNESCO

OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

Under the overall authority of the Assistant Director-General for the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and the overall supervision of the IOC Head of Section for Marine Policy and Regional Coordination (IOC/MPR), and the direct supervision of the Head of the IOCAFRICA, and the administrative supervision of the Director, UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa (Nairobi), the incumbent will support the work of the Secretariat for the IOC Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA).

This is a unique opportunity for a motivated and experienced individual who wishes to further develop their career in programme management related to ocean sciences and regional coordination.

In particular, the incumbent shall perform the following tasks:

• Advance the work of IOC in the region by facilitating the development and implementation of programmes related to ocean research, sustained ocean observations and services, the development of science/policy interface, the generation of scientific knowledge to support sustainable ocean management and capacity development in the region.
• Support the facilitation and coordination of regional activities in support of the UN Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development focusing on engagement of ocean stakeholders from science, policy, industry and civil society, the convening of regional task groups, supporting the design of Decade Actions, and identification of capacity development needs.
• Exercise leadership and strategic thinking in developing, planning and implementing IOC programmes/ activities responding to the existing and emerging priority needs and specific interests of Member States in the region and support the implementation of IOCAFRICA workplan as defined by the Sub-Commission.
• Build networks, foster collaborations, engage with technical experts and pursue resource mobilization opportunities with governments, other UN agencies, the research, development and donor communities, with a view to implementing IOC Medium-Term Strategy, the IOC Capacity Development Strategy and programmes in the region and contributing to the attainment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Contribute to the smooth functioning of the Regional Secretariat, provide operational support and capacity building within the Secretariat, such as training staff and developing standard operating procedures, coordinate with vendors, prepare and monitor the budget for the Sub-Commission including extrabudgetary contributions under the guidance of the Head of Secretariat, and in line with UNESCO’s policies and procedures.
• Monitor programme progress, stay abreast of emerging trends and provide strategic insights for IOCAFRICA programme adaptation.
• Support the Head of Secretariat in representing IOC, the Sub-Commission and UNESCO at the UN and other partner organizations’ intergovernmental and technical meetings, as appropriate.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Advanced University degree in ocean science, marine policy, environmental science, ocean governance, integrated ocean management or related field.

Work Experience

• Minimum of four (4) years of professional experience in the field of ocean science, and/or ocean management, of which preferably two (2) years acquired at the international level.
• Working experience in coordinating, managing and implementing projects/programmes, and communication activities.
• Capacity to design, integrate multi-disciplinary scientific inputs to deliver tools, new knowledge and technical capacities aimed at enhancing ocean sustainability actions of Member States.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and conceptual skills and ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Forward-thinking mindset to contribute to the long-term vision of the organization.
• Good knowledge of the UN wide system and the global development agenda and relevant UN processes relevant to the ocean.

Languages

• Excellent knowledge of English and good working knowledge of French is an asset.
• Knowledge of other UNESCO official languages (Spanish, Arabic, Chinese or Russian) is an asset.