Consultant for HIV Prevention Project

Job Posting Organization:
The organization behind this consultancy is the World Health Organization (WHO), which 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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO focuses on various health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, among others. The organization is committed to achieving health equity and improving health outcomes for all individuals, particularly in underserved communities.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the implementation of a UN SDG Trust Fund-supported HIV prevention project aimed at increasing access to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and other HIV prevention services for key and vulnerable populations in Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia. This position requires the consultant to work closely with the Malaysian AIDS Council (MAC) and the WHO country office, providing both technical and operational support to ensure that the project is executed in a timely and high-quality manner, in alignment with national and WHO guidelines. The consultant will be based at the MAC office and will report to both MAC and WHO, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among all stakeholders involved in the project. The consultant's responsibilities will include supporting the development of community-led HIV prevention services, engaging General Practitioners (GPs) as service providers, and addressing barriers to access in rural and remote areas. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring project implementation and ensuring adherence to guidelines, ultimately contributing to the reduction of HIV transmission in the targeted regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Providing technical and operational support for PrEP and HIV prevention activities, including finalizing implementation plans for GPs and peer-led activities in target locations.
• Supporting the MAC-WHO joint workplan implementation by establishing strategic partnerships with GPs and facilitating their training.
• Monitoring stakeholder management, identifying risks, and proposing timely mitigation measures to address stigma and discrimination.
• Participating in the design of outreach and education plans for PrEP provision, integrating Chemsex harm reduction strategies.
• Ensuring service packages align with WHO and Ministry of Health guidelines while adapting them to fit local contexts.
• Assisting in the development of monitoring tools for PrEP uptake and adherence among vulnerable populations.
• Supporting project monitoring and reporting by conducting field visits, collecting data, and providing monthly updates to WHO and MAC.
• Compiling progress reports and preparing quality inputs for final technical and financial reports.
• Organizing regular meetings of the Project Oversight Committee and ensuring follow-up on recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree in public health, epidemiology, medicine, or health sciences from an accredited institution. An advanced degree in infectious disease, public health, or health systems management is desirable. Candidates must have a strong understanding of HIV prevention strategies and PrEP implementation, as well as experience in engaging community and health sector stakeholders. Familiarity with the Malaysian health system, particularly in the context of East Malaysia, is also essential. Excellent coordination, communication, and reporting skills are required to effectively manage the various aspects of the project.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in public health, epidemiology, medicine, or health sciences from an accredited or recognized institution. An advanced university degree in infectious disease, public health, or health systems management is considered desirable, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in managing health programs and initiatives.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of experience in HIV prevention, public health program implementation, or health systems strengthening for communicable disease programs is essential. Candidates should have experience working with community-based organizations or key populations in Malaysia or Southeast Asia. Familiarity with PrEP service delivery models and experience with digital health tools, outreach coordination, or peer navigator models are also desirable. Previous work with WHO, UN agencies, or national HIV programs will be an added advantage.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the local language, Bahasa Malaysia. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and communities involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be based at the MAC office in Kuala Lumpur, with frequent travel to Sabah and Sarawak as needed for project implementation. The expected duration of the contract is 11 months, from October 2025 to September 202

• Remuneration details are to be determined. This vacancy notice may also be used to identify candidates for other similar consultancies at the same level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their degrees and certificates as required for this position. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all members of the workforce are expected to promote a safe and respectful workplace.