Chief Nutrition Officer (P-5) – Fixed Term, Nairobi

About the role

UNICEF is looking for a senior professional to lead its nutrition programme in Kenya. The Chief Nutrition (P‑5) will be based in Nairobi and will report to the Deputy Representative, overseeing the design, implementation and results of maternal, infant and child nutrition interventions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and steer the national nutrition strategy in line with UNICEF’s strategic plans and results‑based management approach.
• Lead and supervise the Nutrition team, ensuring effective coordination with Health, WASH and other cross‑sectoral units.
• Manage programme budgets, monitoring, evaluation and reporting to achieve measurable outcomes.
• Represent UNICEF in government and partner forums on nutrition policy and programme implementation.
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF standards, performance indicators and accountability frameworks.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in Nutrition, Public Health, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) in managing large‑scale nutrition programmes, preferably in humanitarian or development settings.
• Proven leadership and team‑management capabilities.
• Strong knowledge of maternal, infant and young child nutrition, including the first 1,000 days and adolescent nutrition.
• Familiarity with results‑based management and UNICEF’s operational procedures.

Required skills

• Strategic planning and programme design.
• Budget and financial management.
• Monitoring, evaluation and data‑driven decision making.
• Stakeholder engagement and partnership building.

What we offer

• Attractive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a global organization.
• A diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to improving children’s lives.