Programme manager

Overview UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job it is a calling. UNICEF is a place where careers are built: we offer our staff diverse opportunities for professional and personal development that will help them reinforce a sense of purpose while serving children and communities across the world. We welcome everyone who wants to belong and grow in a diverse and passionate culture, coupled with an attractive compensation and benefits package. Visit our website to learn more about what we do at UNICEF. Position Summary The UNICEF Education Cluster Manager is situated in the Office of Emergency Programmes (EMOPS) Division, Global Cluster Coordination Section (GCCS), in Geneva, Switzerland. The direct supervisor is the UNICEF Global Education Cluster Coordinator. Under the supervision of the UNICEF Global Education Cluster Coordinator and working as a member of the UNICEF‑Save the Children Global Education Cluster Team, the purpose of this post is to reinforce UNICEF’s capacity to deliver on its obligations under Education Can’t Wait and DG‑ECHO funded initiatives. By providing dedicated technical, coordination and management support, the position will help ensure high‑quality implementation, systematic monitoring of results, and timely, accurate communication with donors. It will also play a pivotal role in advancing the GEC’s forthcoming strategy, expected in 2026. At a time when the humanitarian sector is facing significant financial constraints, this role will further bolster UNICEF’s ability to sustain effective partnership engagement and mobilise resources to meet growing needs. Responsibilities Detail of day‑to‑day responsibilities is provided in the complete Job Description document. The role is expected to deliver high‑quality implementation, systematic monitoring, and effective communication with donors while supporting the GEC strategy and partnership engagement. Qualifications Education: Master or equivalent (Advanced University Degree) in Education, International Development, International Relations. Work Experience: At least 8 years of relevant professional work experience, including a minimum of 4 years in the education‑in‑emergencies sector, and any other related fields. Skills: Proven experience in programme implementation and management with a record of delivering high‑quality results. Demonstrated experience in inter‑agency coordination, ideally both at global and field levels. Knowledge and understanding of preparedness, anticipatory action, and rapid response mechanisms. Strong communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to clearly articulate priorities, influence stakeholders, and represent the organisation in high‑level fora. Strong experience in partnership development and networking, including engagement with a wide range of stakeholders. Ability to interpret, translate, and adapt global strategies and priorities to operational realities across diverse contexts. Excellent analytical, writing, and drafting skills. Record of designing and executing resource mobilisation strategies. Exceptional interpersonal skills, including flexibility, diplomacy, leadership, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work effectively within a team. Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required. Language: Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) or a local language. Relevant experience at country level, particularly in development, fragile settings and humanitarian contexts. Core Competencies Builds and maintains partnerships. Demonstrates self‑awareness and ethical awareness. Drive to achieve results for impact. Innovates and embraces change. Manages ambiguity and complexity. Thinks and acts strategically. Works collaboratively with others. Employment & Equality Statement UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. We offer a wide range of benefits to our staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation, please submit your request through the accessibility email on the UNICEF Careers webpage. Should you be shortlisted, please get in touch with the recruiter directly to share further details, enabling us to make the necessary arrangements in advance. Legal & Administrative Conditions 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). If you are selected, you must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption. Failure to do so will lead to cancellation of the selection. 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. Application Process How Cinfo can support you: Application and Interview Preparation: … For Swiss nationals invited to the first round of the selection process… Important Application Information: Please submit your application only via the official website of the hiring organisation or by using the “Apply” button on CinfoPoste, which will redirect you to the organisation’s application site. Applications submitted through other job portals will not be forwarded or considered. #J-18808-Ljbffr