Chief Field Office, P-4, Fixed Term Position

The Chief Field Office (CFO) is accountable for managing and leading the total programme commitment of a field office within a country programme, reporting to the Chief Field Operations. This senior role involves overseeing program sectors and operational service teams to ensure the delivery of quality results aligned with UNICEF’s programme of cooperation, country programme management plan, and the vision set by the Representative. The CFO represents UNICEF in their Area of Responsibility (AoR), participates in regional meetings and events, and ensures the safety and security of UNICEF staff and assets. Given the volatile security environment in Northern Ethiopia, including potential resurgences of armed conflict and cross-border tensions, the role demands strong emergency preparedness capacities, including risk scenario development, contingency planning, and rapid response to security escalations. The CFO must adapt monitoring strategies in insecure areas, including remote monitoring tools and conflict-sensitive evaluation approaches, while ensuring programme continuity and timely delivery of humanitarian assistance. The position also involves providing technical support to national and local partners for capacity building, advocating for children’s rights at national and community levels, and coordinating with UN and national partners to improve data collection, programme implementation, and supply management. Key deliverables include drafting programme work plans, monitoring fund disbursement and compliance, and participating in annual sector review meetings with government counterparts.

Master’s degree or equivalent (Advanced University Degree) in social science, public administration, sociology, international relations, government and public relations, public policy, social policy, community development or another related field; At least 8 years of relevant work experience in social sciences, international relations, public administration, government and public relations, public or social policy, sociology, social or community development, or another relevant technical field; Leadership skills; Resource management; Knowledge of Rights-based and Results-based approach; UNICEF Programme policy; Project management methodology; Programme Implementation; Fluency in English is required; Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) or a local language; Experience in developing countries; Experience in a UN system agency or organization; Experience in emergency preparedness; Relevant experience at country level, particularly in development, fragile settings and humanitarian contexts.