Consultant for Maternal Health Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on ensuring 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 and has a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, and to support population and development strategies. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, particularly in the areas of maternal health, family planning, and gender equality. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its response to global challenges and aims to accelerate the implementation of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. UNFPA employs a diverse workforce and values integrity, transparency, and accountability in its operations.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in assessing maternal health outcomes related to postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) management in Angola. This position involves working under the supervision of the Population and Development Specialist and the Representative of UNFPA Angola. The consultant will be responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of a standardized PPH prevention and early detection bundle, which includes the use of uterotonics, trained health providers, and maternal trays for early detection of PPH. The goal is to reduce the incidence of PPH and improve maternal health outcomes in selected health facilities in Luanda, Malanje, and Namibe provinces. The consultant will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods to gather data and provide recommendations for improving PPH management protocols in Angola. This role requires a deep understanding of maternal health issues, particularly in the context of low-middle-income countries, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and government officials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Assess changes in maternal health outcomes related to PPH management, including the incidence of PPH, need for blood transfusions, and maternal deaths in study sites before and after the implementation of the PPH bundle.
• Evaluate the practice of measuring blood loss using calibrated drapes or MaternaWell Trays, assessing their acceptability and practicality in various settings in Angola.
• Measure the effectiveness of training programs for healthcare providers by evaluating improvements in their knowledge and skills related to PPH management.
• Document barriers and enabling factors affecting the implementation and sustainability of PPH bundle interventions in the Angolan context.
• Identify differences in challenges faced by selected provinces in implementing the PPH bundle and its impact on maternal health outcomes.
• Provide recommendations to the Ministry of Health in Angola regarding the current PPH protocol and training modules to enhance PPH management and reduce maternal deaths.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least a Master’s degree, preferably a PhD, in relevant fields such as Public Health, Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Biostatistics, Health Management, Epidemiology, or related Social Sciences. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) research or programs, with a focus on maternal health and emergency obstetric care, ideally in sub-Saharan African countries or similar low-middle-income contexts. Demonstrated experience in conducting operational or implementation research, as well as qualitative and quantitative data analysis, is essential. Recent publications in peer-reviewed journals within the last 1-3 years are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher in fields related to public health, medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology, biostatistics, health management, epidemiology, or social sciences. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the relevant areas.

Experience:
The consultant should have at least 7 years of relevant experience in sexual and reproductive health research or programs, particularly focusing on maternal health and emergency obstetric care. Experience in conducting operational research, implementation research, or monitoring and evaluation is crucial. The consultant should also have a proven track record of qualitative and quantitative data analysis, demonstrating their ability to analyze complex health data effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with proven ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. While working knowledge of Portuguese is preferred, it is not a requirement for this assignment. The ability to communicate in both languages would enhance collaboration with local stakeholders and healthcare providers.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to be completed within 60 working days, spanning from November 2025 to March 30, 2026, depending on the progress of the PPH study. Most of the work will be conducted remotely, but the consultant will be required to travel to Angola for one week. Travel costs, including airfare and daily subsistence allowance (DSA), will be covered separately. The consultant will collaborate closely with provincial study coordinators and will need to utilize their own office materials and equipment, such as a laptop. The position offers a competitive remuneration package and reflects UNFPA's commitment to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.