Deputy Regional Director – West & Central Africa (D-1)

About the role

The Deputy Regional Director (DRD) will join UNICEF's regional leadership team in Dakar, supporting the Regional Director in overseeing the West and Central Africa region. The role focuses on coordinating multi‑sectoral programmes, strengthening country office performance, and advancing the Regional Agenda for Children and the UNICEF Strategic Plan (2026‑2029).

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Virtual Regional Programme Delivery Platform (VRPDP) to mobilise multidisciplinary expertise across UNICEF and external partners.
• Ensure optimal guidance and connectivity for 24 country offices, facilitating integrated and differentiated delivery mechanisms.
• Advise the Regional Director on policy formulation, partnerships, resource mobilisation, communications and advocacy.
• Represent the Regional Director within and outside the United Nations system as required.
• Provide programme management oversight, direction and leadership to the regional multidisciplinary team.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in senior management within international development or humanitarian organisations.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with country senior management and headquarters divisions.
• Strong understanding of child rights, multi‑sectoral programme delivery and strategic planning.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence programmes that affect millions of children across West and Central Africa.
• Collaborative work environment within a leading global humanitarian agency.
• Professional development and exposure to high‑impact regional initiatives.