International Consultant – Mental Health, Brain Health and Substance Use

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and health promotion. The organization operates globally, focusing on health issues that affect populations worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. WHO's initiatives aim to ensure universal health coverage and improve health outcomes for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Mental Health, Brain Health, and Substance Use is crucial in addressing the global mental health crisis, which has been exacerbated by various factors including humanitarian crises and the COVID-19 pandemic. The consultant will play a pivotal role in supporting the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health (SIMH), which aims to provide quality mental health care to underserved populations in Bangladesh and Nepal. The consultant will be responsible for adapting WHO's normative guidance to local contexts, developing standard operating procedures for mental health service delivery, and supporting the monitoring and evaluation of mental health initiatives. This role requires a deep understanding of mental health policies and the ability to engage with multiple stakeholders to drive policy reform and capacity building in the region. The consultant will also contribute to the development of advocacy materials and participate in regional meetings to share insights and progress on mental health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be expected to perform a variety of tasks under the guidance of the Regional Office for Mental Health, including:

• Providing technical cooperation to Bangladesh and Nepal to adapt WHO normative guidance and tools for the Special Initiative for Mental Health (SIMH). This includes developing standard operating procedures for mental health service delivery at the district level.
• Supporting the monitoring and evaluation of SIMH by developing M&E plans and providing technical assistance to monitor implementation progress and report on country-level indicators.
• Assisting in the development of policy briefs, technical documents, and evidence-based materials to support advocacy and policy dialogue.
• Documenting and reporting progress on SIMH implementation, including preparing updates and summaries of achievements.
• Undertaking field visits to support service rollouts in Bangladesh and Nepal.
• Promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening community-based mental health services to prevent and reduce mental and psychosocial disorders.
• Participating in regional meetings and preparing reports as required.
• Undertaking any other tasks related to mental health and substance use as directed by the Regional Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree in medicine from a recognized institution, along with a postgraduate degree in psychiatry, mental health, psychology, or related health sciences. A PhD in Mental Health, Clinical Psychology, or Psychiatric Social Work is desirable. Essential qualifications also include at least 10 years of experience at a senior level in mental health and substance use policies and programs, with a minimum of five years at the international level. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and advocacy skills to engage with country officials effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Degree in medicine from a recognized university, complemented by a postgraduate degree in psychiatry, mental health, psychology, or related health sciences. A PhD in Mental Health, Clinical Psychology, or Psychiatric Social Work is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for this consultancy role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least 10 years in mental health and substance use policies and programs at a senior level. This experience should include a minimum of five years at the international level, demonstrating the candidate's ability to navigate complex health systems and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively. Experience in community-based public health program management in developing countries is also desirable, as it aligns with the goals of the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, intermediate knowledge of any of the WHO South-East Asia regional languages is considered beneficial, as it would facilitate communication and engagement with local stakeholders in the countries involved in the initiative.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be full-time for a duration of 11 months, with the possibility of on-site or off-site work as needed. The remuneration for this position falls within Pay Band Level B, with a daily range of USD 350 - 499, depending on the candidate's experience and the nature of the work. Travel expenses and per diem will be covered according to WHO rules for consultants during approved official travel. Candidates should be aware that WHO's contracts are conditional on confirming vaccination status as required by the organization before undertaking any assignment. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States.