- Job Title: Senior Consultant – Education Outcomes Fund (EOF)
- Organisation: UNICEF
- Duty Station: Freetown (Remote consultancy arrangement)
- Contract Type: Consultancy
- Duration: 3 months
- Application Deadline: 17 May 2026 (GMT Daylight Time)
- Sector: Education / Programme Management / International Development
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About UNICEF
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to protect children’s rights, improve access to essential services, and support their development from early childhood through adolescence.
The organisation is globally recognised for its commitment to equity, inclusion, and delivering sustainable impact for children in the most vulnerable contexts.
UNICEF promotes a values-driven culture built on Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS).
Purpose of the Assignment
The Education Outcomes Fund (EOF) is preparing to launch a new programme in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in Sierra Leone, aimed at improving access and quality of early learning for children aged 3–5 years.
This initiative builds on collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and focuses on establishing community-based early childhood education centres.
The Senior Consultant will provide strategic and technical expertise to support the successful delivery of EOF’s outcomes-based education programme in Sierra Leone.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Programme Support
- Provide high-level technical and strategic guidance for the implementation of the EOF programme
- Support the design and delivery of innovative outcomes-based education interventions
- Contribute to strengthening early childhood education systems in Sierra Leone
Programme Management & Coordination
- Support planning, coordination, and implementation of programme activities
- Work closely with government stakeholders and implementing partners
- Ensure alignment with education sector priorities and outcomes frameworks
Technical Expertise
- Contribute to the design and refinement of programme evaluation frameworks
- Support monitoring, learning, and performance assessment of programme outcomes
- Provide input into policy development and education sector reforms
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, economics, finance, business, education, international development, or related field
- Master’s degree preferred (not mandatory)
Experience
- Minimum 8 years of relevant professional experience in areas such as:
- Education
- International development
- Public policy
- Programme management
- Management consulting or think tanks
- Experience working in Sierra Leone, preferably in the education sector
- Strong background in programme design and implementation in global development contexts
Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Experience in innovative finance and outcomes-based funding models (strong advantage)
- Familiarity with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) or basic education systems
- Experience in evaluation design, monitoring, and results-based management
- Understanding of African or Middle Eastern development contexts (preferred)
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English (required)
- Additional languages such as French, Arabic, or Spanish are an advantage
Core Values and Competencies
UNICEF expects all consultants to demonstrate:
- Care: Commitment to improving children’s lives
- Respect: Inclusion and dignity for all individuals
- Integrity: Ethical and transparent professional conduct
- Trust: Reliability and accountability in delivery
- Sustainability: Long-term impact and responsible programming
About the Education Outcomes Fund (EOF)
The Education Outcomes Fund is a global initiative focused on improving education outcomes through results-based financing models. It works with governments and partners to ensure funding is tied to measurable improvements in learning and development.
In Sierra Leone, EOF is supporting innovative approaches to early childhood education by strengthening access, quality, and community-based learning systems.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit applications via the UNICEF Talent Management System (TMS), including:
- Updated CV (TMS profile)
- Cover letter
- Financial proposal (separate document)
📌 Reference: TMS0001493
Important Notes
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- UNICEF does not charge any application or recruitment fees
- All selected candidates undergo background and reference checks
Diversity and Inclusion
UNICEF is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, disability, ethnicity, or background.
Reasonable accommodation is available for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.
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Closing Statement
This consultancy offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to transforming early childhood education in Sierra Leone, shaping long-term learning outcomes for children in vulnerable communities.
Apply now and help strengthen education systems that change lives.
