Individual Consultant: Childhood Non-Communicable Diseases

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a leading humanitarian and development agency that works globally for the rights of every child. Established in 1946, UNICEF has spent over 70 years dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families. The organization operates in 190 countries and territories, aiming to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, every day. UNICEF's mission is to ensure that all children have the right to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential, contributing to a better world for everyone. The organization focuses on various aspects of child rights, including safe shelter, nutrition, protection from disaster and conflict, health care, and education. UNICEF also engages with leaders, thinkers, and policymakers to advocate for children's rights, particularly for the most disadvantaged populations. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, promoting flexible work arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance for all staff. UNICEF has been recognized for its efforts in gender equality in the workplace, being the first UN agency to receive the EDGE certification, which is the leading global standard for gender equality. The organization prides itself on fostering a multicultural and harmonious work environment, with a strict zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as harassment and discrimination. All selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant for Childhood Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) will primarily work on a deliverable-based contract, focusing on specific tasks related to the management and implementation of initiatives aimed at addressing childhood NCDs. The consultant will be responsible for managing their own time and ensuring that all deliverables are submitted according to the agreed schedule. This position is largely remote, allowing the consultant to work from home, but it may require occasional visits to the UNICEF office in New Delhi for meetings as agreed with the contract supervisor. The consultant will be expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of the scope of work, effectively communicate their motivation for undertaking the assignment, and showcase their fit for the role through their application materials. The consultant will play a crucial role in contributing to UNICEF's mission of improving the health and well-being of children, particularly in the context of rising non-communicable diseases among young populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Consultant for Childhood Non-Communicable Diseases include but are not limited to the following:

• Conducting comprehensive research and analysis on childhood non-communicable diseases, including their prevalence, risk factors, and impact on children's health.
• Developing evidence-based documentation and reports for donor reporting, showcasing the consultant's experience in report writing and preparation of materials.
• Collaborating with UNICEF teams and external stakeholders to design and implement strategies aimed at preventing and managing childhood NCDs.
• Preparing and delivering presentations on findings and recommendations to UNICEF staff and partners.
• Ensuring timely submission of all deliverables as per the agreed schedule, while managing time effectively to meet deadlines.
• Participating in meetings with UNICEF staff and stakeholders to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps in the consultancy work.
• Providing technical assistance and guidance to UNICEF in the development of programs and policies related to childhood NCDs.
• Engaging in continuous learning and staying updated on best practices and emerging trends in the field of childhood health and non-communicable diseases.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Individual Consultant position include:

• A strong background in public health, child health, or a related field, with a focus on non-communicable diseases.
• Proven experience in conducting research and analysis related to childhood health issues, particularly NCDs.
• Excellent writing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality reports and documentation for donor reporting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines in a remote work environment.
• Familiarity with UNICEF's mission and goals, particularly in relation to child health and rights.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Individual Consultant position includes:

• A Master's degree in public health, child health, or a related field.
• Additional certifications or training in non-communicable diseases or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Individual Consultant position includes:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in public health, with a focus on childhood health and non-communicable diseases.
• Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNICEF or similar agencies, is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for the position is proficiency in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly Hindi, is considered a strong asset.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is for a duration of 3 months, with a delivery-based structure that requires the consultant to manage their own time and ensure submission of deliverables according to a specific schedule. The position is open to national consultants only, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, nationality, or background. UNICEF promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applications from persons living with disabilities. The application process requires submission of a cover letter, an updated CV, a writing sample, and a financial proposal. It is important to note that UNICEF does not charge any fees during any stage of the recruitment process.