Category B Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and the communities they live in. IOM's work includes addressing the challenges of migration, enhancing the well-being of migrants, and fostering international cooperation on migration issues. In the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), IOM is actively involved in health programs aimed at improving healthcare access and resilience in the region, which is crucial for reducing health-related risks associated with migration and displacement.

Job Overview:
The position of Category B Consultant is integral to IOM's health program in BARMM, specifically focusing on enhancing the local capacity of the Ministry of Health (MOH) and its associated entities. The consultant will be responsible for building capacities in Evidence-Based Decision-Making (EBDM) among health officials and local government units. This role involves assessing current capabilities, identifying gaps, and designing training programs that translate health data into actionable strategies. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including health executives and planning officers, to improve governance and leadership in health systems. The overarching goal is to strengthen health program delivery and management in BARMM, thereby contributing to better health outcomes and reducing the drivers of unwanted migration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a series of tasks, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive assessment of current capacities within the MOH, IPHOs, and LGUs to identify gaps in EBDM.
• Developing training modules tailored to the health system context, ensuring they are informed by consultations with key partners.
• Facilitating training sessions for health officials in one or two provinces, focusing on the application of EBDM principles.
• Preparing detailed reports on the assessment findings, training outcomes, and recommendations for future actions.
• Engaging in continuous coordination with national, regional, and local stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for the training initiatives.
• Documenting and reporting on progress, including the quality of training materials and community engagement efforts.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of training and providing feedback to improve future programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s or higher degree in relevant fields such as Local Governance Studies, Public Health, Health Data and Information Science, or related disciplines. Additionally, a minimum of ten years of professional experience in public health, health information systems, and evidence-based decision-making frameworks is required. Candidates should demonstrate advanced knowledge and proven experience in these areas, particularly in complex health system environments. Familiarity with national health data systems in the Philippines, such as the Field Health Services Information System (FHSIS) and PhilHealth, is highly desirable. Experience working with international organizations, UN agencies, and government bodies in the Philippines or similar contexts is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher in fields such as Local Governance Studies, Public Health, Health Data and Information Science, Medicine, Public Health Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Health Economics, Epidemiology, or any related field from an accredited academic institution. This advanced education is essential to ensure that the consultant has the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively contribute to the health program in BARMM.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of ten years in relevant professional roles. Candidates should have extensive experience in public health, health information systems, and frameworks for evidence-based decision-making. Experience in complex health system environments, particularly within the Philippines or similar contexts, is crucial. Familiarity with national health data systems and prior work with international organizations or government agencies will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Filipino is mandatory for this position, both in oral and written forms. Additionally, a working knowledge of any BARMM language is beneficial. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages may also be evaluated during the selection process, which could include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is categorized as a Category B Consultant role, with a contract duration that includes specific deliverables and payment installments based on the completion of tasks. The consultant will be required to undertake duty travels as necessary to support the program. The appointment is contingent upon funding confirmation and the candidate's medical fitness for appointment. IOM provides coverage against occupational accidents and illnesses under its Compensation Plan, but consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational incidents. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.