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IV. Key functions, accountabilities and related duties/tasks
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Summary of key functions/accountabilities:
- Lead the design, planning and i operationalization of UNICEF's cross-sectoral MHPSS strategy and interventions throughout the organization in Ukraine.
- Manage the MHPSS programme delivery, monitoring, and reporting of results.
- Provide technical, advisory and operational support to foster a sound and collaborative approach to MHPSS across all UNICEF sectors.
- Build and maintain partnerships and networks.
- Promote innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building.
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1. Lead the design and planning of UNICEF's cross-sectoral MHPSS strategy throughout the organization in Ukraine.
- Support the design, planning, , and updating of UNICEF’s cross-sectoral MHPSS approach, ensuring alignment and coordination across all sectors in Ukraine and with Ukraine national MHPSS operational roadmap.
- Establish robust communication channels and information management systems to foster strong collaboration among sectors.
- Ensure that UNICEF cross-sectoral MHPSS approach is technically sound, based on the latest international evidenced- based guidelines and responsive to the needs of children, young people, parents, and caregivers affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Ensures UNICEF cross-sectoral MHPSS approach addresses and covers both MHPSS humanitarian needs and interventions as well as MHPSS system strengthening and long-term service delivery.
- Improve the availability and use of MHPSS data to inform policy and programmatic decisions, guiding strategic advocacy and intervention efforts.Provide expert and technical assistance to chiefs of sections, Chiefs of field offices, technical MHPSS focal points in Kiev and field offices in setting sectoral priorities and strategies, for MHPSS initiatives while maintaining coherence and complementarity across sectors and adherence with UNICEF national multisectoral MHPSS strategy.
- Provide technical and advisory guidance to line Ministries (health, education, social affairs, youth) at national level for the development of sound and robust national MHPSS legislation and regulations and for the design and planning of MHPSS services for children, adolescents and their caregivers, in line with international best practices and evidenced-based standards.
- Identify needs and partnership opportunities for research initiatives and research implementation projects to generate data related to children and adolescents mental health and well being and to create evidence on MHPSS interventions targeting children, adolescents and caregivers. Ensure data and research findings are used to adjust UNICEF MHPSS multi-sectoral programming.
- Stay informed of national, regional, and global developments to identify opportunities for cross-sectoral MHPSS integration.Participate in strategic discussions around MHPSS programme planning, contributing to the formulation, design, and development of proposals for cross-sectoral MHPSS initiatives. Ensure alignment with UNICEF’s Strategic Plans, Global Framework on MHPSS, and national/regional priorities.
- Establish specific goals, objectives, and strategies for the cross-sectoral MHPSS approach using results-based management (RBM) methodologies. Prepare necessary documentation for programme review and approval.
- Provide technical, advisory and operational support throughout the programme cycle to ensure coherence, integration, and harmonization of MHPSS initiatives, facilitating the achievement of planned results.
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- Manage the MHPSS programme delivery, monitoring, and reporting of results.
- Collaborate with UNICEF colleagues across all sectors and divisions and external partners to identify opportunities for cross-sectoral MHPSS coordination.
- Provide technical and operational assistance to chiefs of sections, Chiefs of field offices, technical MHPSS focal points in Kiev and field offices in developing and operationalizing sectoral and complementary implementation plans for the delivery of integrated MHPSS services at sub-national (hromada) level, in line with UNICEF multisectoral MHPSS strategy.
- Identify and establish partnerships with technically sound implementing partners, government line Ministries, professional associations, academic/research institutions for the delivery of integrated MHPSS services across sectors (health, education, social, youth, SBC) and for the development of training curriculum when needed, based on the latest international standards and guidelines in the sector of mental health.
- Support the development of MHPSS sectoral tools, training curriculum and materials when needed and support the formulation of sectoral roll out plans to scale up MHPSS services, workforce capacity-building and use of manualized interventions when relevant and in collaboration with key partners in each sector
- Organize and implement capacity-building initiatives to enhance the ability of partners and stakeholders to integrate promotive, preventive, and responsive MHPSS services across sectors.
- Establish benchmarks and performance indicators to assess progress, accountability, and delivery of sustainable MHPSS results in each sector and across sectors.
- Participate in programme monitoring and evaluation exercises, as well as reviews with government counterparts and other stakeholders, to assess progress and inform adjustments needed to achieve targets.
- Analyze monitoring and evaluation reports to identify gaps and strengths in the cross-sectoral MHPSS programmes. Use lessons learned to improve planning and cross-sectoral interventions.
- Conduct field visits, surveys, and stakeholder exchanges to actively monitor programme progress, identify bottlenecks, and ensure timely issue resolution.
- Ensure the optimal use of programme resources, complying with organizational rules, regulations, and donor requirements. Provide timely reporting and manage the liquidation of resources.
- Prepare regular programme reports for management, donors, and partners, keeping all stakeholders informed of programme progress.
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3. Provide technical and operational support to strengthen a collaborative approach to MHPSS across all UNICEF sectors.
- Provide technical guidance and operational support to government counterparts, NGO partners, UN system partners and other country office partners and donors to improve the design, implementation and deliver results related to the integration of promotive, preventive and responsive cross-sectoral Mental health and Psychosocial support services in development and emergency contexts.
- Participate in cross-sectoral MHPSS programme meetings, including MHPSS TWG related to MHPSS programme development and contingency planning to provide technical and operational information, advice and support.
- Draft policy papers, briefs and other strategic programme materials related to the implementation of a cross-sectoral MHPSS approach for management use.
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4. Build and maintain partnerships and networks.
- Coordinate and elevate UNICEF’s cross-sectoral MHPSS strategy with government authorities, donors, UN agencies, research and academic institutions, professional associations and external stakeholders in the sector of MHPSS and position UNICEF as a lead agency in addressing MHPSS needs of children, adolescents and their caregivers in Ukraine.
- Prepare advocacy and communication materials to promote awareness, establish strategic partnerships, and support fundraising for MHPSS programmes.
- Represent UNICEF in inter-agency discussions, MHPSS clusters, and working groups, ensuring UNICEF’s position and priorities are reflected in inter-agency planning and programme development.
- Actively engage in UN planning, ensuring UNICEF’s cross-sectoral MHPSS strategies are integrated into broader development planning and agenda-setting processes.
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5. Promote innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building.
- Introduce innovative approaches and best practices to strengthen partner and stakeholder capacity in delivering sustainable cross-sectoral MHPSS results.
- Stay updated on international evidence and best practices in MHPSS and ensure that lessons learned are institutionalized and shared across UNICEF sectors and partners to adjust UNICEF MHPSS programming.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures that promote efficiency and effectiveness in cross-sectoral MHPSS programmes.
- Support governments and partners in developing innovative MHPSS service delivery solutions (e.g., apps, helplines) that address current needs.
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V. Impact of Results
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The effective leadership and coordination provided by the Health Manager (MHPSS) in implementing UNICEF’s cross-sectoral MHPSS approach will lead to meaningful and lasting improvements in mental health and psychosocial well-being for children, adolescents, parents, and caregivers affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
By ensuring seamless collaboration across sectors, the Health Manager (MHPSS) will enhance UNICEF’s credibility and strengthen its ability to deliver comprehensive and multi-sectoral MHPSS services, reinforcing the organization’s role as a trusted provider of care and support in crisis situations.
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VI. Competencies and level of proficiency required (based on UNICEF Professional Competency Profiles)
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Core Values
- Care
- Respect
- Integrity
- Trust
- Accountability
Core Competencies
- Nurtures, Leads and Manages People (1)
- Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness (2)
- Works Collaboratively with others (2)
- Builds and Maintains Partnerships (2)
- Innovates and Embraces Change (2)
- Thinks and Acts Strategically (2)
- Drives to achieve impactful results (2)
- Manages ambiguity and complexity (2)
Functional Competencies
- Analyzing (3)
- Deciding and Initiating action (2)
- Applying technical expertise (3)
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VII. Technical Competencies
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Technical competencies must be demonstrated in the following areas:
- understanding of the overall global development context, including the application of the child rights based approach, equity lens and human rights perspectives.
- knowledge of the current context in Ukraine, including the effects of the conflict on the mental health of children, young people, parents and caregivers.
- knowledge of global developments in delivering cross-sectoral mental health and psychosocial support.
- ability to support policy dialogue: translation of analytical findings and evidence into development programmes and policy discussions with partners, including government, development partners, CSOs and academia in relevant areas.
- Some programme management, including programme design, planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting.
- ability to support engagement with partners.
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VIII. Recruitment Qualifications
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Education:
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Master’s degree or advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: Psychology, Psychiatry, Pedagogy, Social Work, Social Sciences, or another relevant technical field.
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Experience:
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A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in MHPSS programme planning, implementation and monitoring is required, preferably with experience in delivering multi-sectoral MHPSS programming.
Strong organizational and facilitation skills whether face to face or remotely with diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated experience with programme cycle management and result-based management.
Comfortable to work independently while coordinating closely with different teams.
Experience working in a middle income country and in the region is considered as an asset.
Relevant experience in a UN system agency or Non government organization is considered as an asset.
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Language Requirements:
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Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Ukrainian or another local language is considered as an asset.
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Other
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Good knowledge and understanding of humanitarian principles, child safeguarding measures and established international standards on mental health and psychosocial support for children in humanitarian settings.
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Familiarize yourself with our competency framework and its different levels.
[Remove the following paragraph if not a child safeguarding elevated risk role] This position has been assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes as it is either a role with direct contact with children, a role that works directly with identifiable children’s data, a safeguarding response role, or an assessed risk role. Additional vetting and assessment for elevated risk roles in child safeguarding (potentially including additional criminal background checks) apply.
UNICEF is here to serve the world’s most disadvantaged children and our global workforce must reflect the diversity of those children. The UNICEF family is committed to include everyone, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, or any other personal characteristic.
We offer a wide range of measures to include a more diverse workforce, such as paid parental leave, time off for breastfeeding purposes, and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF strongly encourages the use of flexible working arrangements.
UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. UNICEF is committed to promoting the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.
UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance. Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station is required for IP positions and will be facilitated by UNICEF. Appointments may also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be canceled.
Remarks:
As per Article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.
UNICEF’s active commitment to diversity and inclusion is critical to deliver the best results for children. For this position, eligible and suitable people with disablites are encouraged to apply.
Government employees who are considered for employment with UNICEF are normally required to resign from their government positions before taking up an assignment with UNICEF. UNICEF reserves the right to withdraw an offer of appointment, without compensation, if a visa or medical clearance is not obtained, or necessary inoculation requirements are not met, within a reasonable period for any reason.
UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.
All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process. An internal candidate performing at the level of the post in the relevant functional area, or an internal/external candidate in the corresponding Talent Group, may be selected, if suitable for the post, without assessment of other candidates.
Eligible staff members on fixed-term, continuing or permanent contracts applying to IP TA positions in a duty station designated as L2/L3, may be able to retain a lien and their fixed-term entitlements, subject to approval by their Head of Office. The conditions of the temporary assignment will vary depending on the status of their post and relocation entitlements may be limited as per the relevant policies.
Additional information about working for UNICEF can be found here.