Individual Consultant for Maternal Health Enquiry

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff dedicated to improving maternal health, family planning, and gender equality. The organization is committed to ending preventable maternal deaths by 2030, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its roadmap for resilience and renewal in a complex global environment, emphasizing the importance of data-driven policies and programs to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant (IC) will play a pivotal role in leading a confidential enquiry into maternal deaths in Ghana, working closely with a technical working group that includes representatives from various health and human rights organizations. The primary goal of this position is to gather current and accurate data to inform policies and programs aimed at reducing maternal mortality. The IC will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive review of maternal deaths in selected high-burden health facilities, utilizing established frameworks to analyze the causes of these deaths. This role requires a deep understanding of the healthcare system in Ghana and the ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations for improving maternal healthcare quality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The IC will undertake several key activities, including: conducting a thorough review of maternal deaths in selected health facilities, applying the Three Delays Model and WHO Quality of Care Framework to analyze causes of death, identifying clinical, infrastructural, systemic, and community-level factors contributing to maternal deaths, assessing the quality of institutional care, including adherence to clinical protocols and guidelines, and developing SMART recommendations for enhancing maternal healthcare and reducing mortality rates. The IC will also be responsible for facilitating stakeholder engagements and managing public health programs, ensuring that the findings of the enquiry are communicated effectively to relevant stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Medical Degree (MB ChB or equivalent) and have at least 10 years of experience in maternal health, with a strong understanding of Ghana's healthcare system. Postgraduate training in public health, social science, obstetrics and gynecology, or related fields is preferred. The ideal candidate will have experience in conducting public health research, facilitating stakeholder engagements, and managing complex public health programs. Strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and experience in public speaking are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate skills in team building and consensus development.

Educational Background:
A Medical Degree (MB ChB or equivalent) is required for this position. Additional qualifications such as postgraduate training in public health, social sciences, obstetrics and gynecology, or related fields will be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in maternal health, with a strong emphasis on understanding the healthcare system in Ghana. Candidates should have a proven track record in conducting public health-related research and managing multi-layered public health programs. Experience in stakeholder engagement and the ability to deliver analytical reports are also critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in any local language is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with various stakeholders and communities involved in the enquiry.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements, and UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application process.