Overview
The Data Programme Specialist is responsible for coordinating the technical implementation of regional statistical harmonization and improvement projects, ensuring the production of high-quality population data and providing technical assistance to National Statistical Offices.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the creation and adaptation of practical guides for census management, digital cartography, data cleaning, and geospatial population modeling.
- Align regional statistical production with the Strategy for the Harmonization of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA).
- Oversee the integration of new technologies into census and CRVS frameworks.
- Support census, CRVS and surveys activities, collaborating with technical consultants and Chief Technical Advisors.
- Organize technical meetings and learning events on census and survey design, implementation, and data use.
- Coordinate GIS capacity strengthening for UNFPA census and survey initiatives.
- Maintain the global database of consultants for technical assistance to National Statistical Offices.
- Support the Regional Initiative on the Centrality of Population (RICoP) by analyzing interconnections between population dynamics and SDGs.
- Organize high-level policy dialogues and webinars to foster evidence-based planning.
- Oversee the development and updating of national Population Data Portals and the UNFPA Census Tracker.
- Monitor Strategic Plan indicators and contribute to ICPD-related initiatives.
- Act as the primary focal point for project monitoring and evaluation.
- Collaborate with key stakeholders to improve data systems.
- Assist WCARO leadership in resource mobilization efforts.
- Liaise with UN agencies, academia, and research institutions to address technical issues.
Required Experience
Minimum of 7 years of experience in data systems, including at least 4 years at the international level with increasing technical and managerial responsibilities. Experience in managing or coordinating global programs or initiatives with deliverables across multiple countries and regions. Technical expertise in utilizing census and survey data for developmental purposes; familiarity with GIS and geospatial analysis of population data is advantageous.
Qualifications
An Advanced Degree in quantitative social sciences, e.g. demography, statistics, population studies, economy, sociology, geography, data sciences or related field. PhD desirable. Advanced degree in health, population, demography and/or other related social science discipline.
