• Educational background: Advanced degree in social sciences, social work, education, health, public health, child development, disability studies, or related field.

Professional experience in ECD/ECI and disability inclusion:

• Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible experience in policy development, programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation related to ECD, ECI and inclusion of children with disabilities.
• Technical expertise in contemporary ECI systems and family-centred approaches: Demonstrated knowledge of evidence-based ECI policies, services, workforce development, and systems strengthening.
• Experience in national, regional/international cooperation and technical assistance: Experience supporting governments, institutions and partners in development of policies, legislation, standards, roadmaps, strategies, capacity building and knowledge exchange initiatives. Prior exposure to and engagement beyond one social sector (health, education and/or social protection) is required.
• Knowledge of ECI and early inclusion in Serbia and Europe and Central Asia: Demonstrated familiarity with regional reforms, policies and stakeholders.
• Communication and partnership-building skills: Proven experience facilitating networks, partnerships, multi-sectoral collaboration, webinars, technical exchanges and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Fluency in Serbian and English is required.

• Experience working with UNICEF, other UN agencies or international organizations.
• Familiarity with Europe and Central Asia regional ECI initiatives and networks.
• Membership or affiliation with recognized European or international professional associations in ECD, ECI, disability or inclusive education.
• Knowledge of additional official languages used in the Europe and Central Asia region.
• Demonstrated experience in resource mobilization, fundraising, EU-funded programmes, or regional advocacy initiatives.