Social Policy and Health Economics Adviser (P5) – West & Central Africa

About the role

The Social Policy and Health Economics Adviser will serve as the senior technical authority for social policy, health economics, public financing and investment strategy across UNFPA’s West and Central Africa Regional Office (WCARO). Reporting to the Deputy Regional Director, the Adviser will translate complex economic evidence into actionable policies and financing strategies that embed sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) into national budgets and development plans.

Key responsibilities

• Generate and analyse economic evidence to support SRHR investment cases in 23 countries.
• Lead policy advocacy and resource‑mobilisation efforts with national governments and development partners.
• Guide country offices in designing sustainable health‑financing systems and domestic resource mobilisation.
• Monitor and report on the implementation of financing strategies and ensure accountability.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to regional and country teams.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in economics, public health, social policy or a related field.
• Extensive experience (minimum 10 years) in health economics, public financing and policy advocacy, preferably in a multilateral or development context.
• Proven track record of influencing national policy and budgeting processes.
• Strong understanding of SRHR, population dynamics and gender equality issues.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape health financing strategies across a diverse 23‑country region.
• Engagement with senior government officials, UN agencies and development partners.
• Professional development within a leading UN agency committed to gender equality and human rights.