Programme Specialist (Innovation Specialist), P-3 – Temporary Appointment – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
UNICEFProgramme Specialist (Innovation Specialist), P-3 – Temporary Appointment – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Duration: 6 months, with the possibility of extension
Organization: UNICEF
For: Non-Ethiopian Nationals
Job ID: #134340
About UNICEF
UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them reach their full potential. In Ethiopia, UNICEF supports children and families affected by conflict, drought, and other emergencies through programs in education, health, nutrition, WASH, and child protection.
Joining UNICEF means becoming part of a mission-driven organization that values integrity, innovation, accountability, and respect for diversity. Learn more about UNICEF at unicef.org.
Position Summary
The Innovation Specialist (Programme Specialist, P-3) will lead UNICEF Ethiopia’s innovation and digital transformation portfolio. The role focuses on managing innovation initiatives, advising on digital strategies, coordinating partnerships, and building staff and partner capacity to implement scalable, tech-enabled programs.
Key Responsibilities
Innovation Management
- Coordinate UNICEF Ethiopia’s innovation initiatives with internal program sections.
- Support design, piloting, and scaling of digital solutions aligned with UNICEF standards.
- Co-chair the Innovation Governance Committee and oversee risk management.
Policy and Strategy
- Implement the innovation and digital transformation (DX) strategy.
- Track project milestones, KPIs, and compliance with digital development principles.
- Ensure adherence to data security and quality assurance standards.
Data and Technology
- Advise on the use of ICT and data technologies to enhance program efficiency.
- Promote open standards and cost-effective digital tools.
- Strengthen data governance and digital investment strategies.
Partnerships and Networking
- Develop and manage partnerships with technology firms, donors, and innovation networks.
- Represent UNICEF Ethiopia in inter-agency innovation forums.
- Identify funding opportunities and co-develop proposals.
Knowledge Management and Capacity Building
- Maintain an up-to-date inventory of innovation projects and best practices.
- Train UNICEF staff and partners on innovation methods, data literacy, and ethical tech use.
- Ensure documentation and sharing of lessons learned across regional and global networks.
Qualifications and Experience
- Education: Master’s degree in Business Administration, ICT Management, Computer Science, Innovation, or a related field.
-
Experience: Minimum of 5 years in ICT4D or innovation management with large international organizations.
- Proven experience in project design, business analysis, and managing vendors or software developers.
- Knowledge of mobile/web-based technologies and UNICEF T4D tools such as U-Report or RapidPro.
- Language: Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required; knowledge of Amharic is an asset.
- Desirable: Experience in humanitarian or development contexts and prior work with the UN system.
Core Values and Competencies
UNICEF’s values are Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS).
Key competencies include partnership building, innovation, results orientation, strategic thinking, and collaboration.
Additional Information
UNICEF promotes diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and persons with disabilities.
UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
No fees are charged at any stage of recruitment.
All appointments are subject to medical and background checks.
Duty Station
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Contract Type
Temporary Appointment – 6 months, renewable
Application Deadline and Link
Apply online through the UNICEF career portal:
👉 Apply Here
UNICEF is committed to building a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive through innovation, inclusion, and compassion.