Health Policy Advocacy & Health Political Strategy Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a leading organization dedicated to promoting children's rights and well-being across the globe. Established in 1946, UNICEF has been operational for over 70 years and currently works in 190 countries and territories. The organization is recognized as the world's largest provider of vaccines for developing countries and focuses on various areas including child health and nutrition, education, and protection from violence and exploitation. With a workforce of over 12,000 employees, UNICEF is funded entirely through voluntary contributions from individuals, businesses, foundations, and governments, allowing it to maintain a significant presence in over 145 countries.

Job Overview:
The Health Policy Advocacy & Health Political Strategy Consultant will play a crucial role in providing strategic guidance and political analysis to support UNICEF's global health agenda. The consultant will be responsible for ensuring that UNICEF's priorities are effectively represented in key international forums such as the G7 and G20, as well as in the policies and financing outcomes of International Financial Institutions (IFIs). The position requires the development and implementation of a comprehensive political advocacy strategy aimed at advancing UNICEF's health priorities, particularly in the context of significant geopolitical and financial trends that impact child survival and development. The consultant will also support global advocacy moments and engage with key stakeholders to strengthen UNICEF's influence in global health discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include conducting strategic political analysis to map key decision-makers and influencers within the G7, G20, and IFIs, providing monthly analyses of geopolitical trends affecting global health financing, and identifying opportunities for advancing UNICEF's priorities. The consultant will develop a detailed advocacy strategy for 2026, including stakeholder-specific messaging and engagement timelines. Additionally, the consultant will draft policy briefs, position papers, and other communication products to influence high-level political decision-making. Direct external engagement with senior leadership and preparation for meetings with G7/G20 presidency teams and major donor governments will also be part of the responsibilities. The consultant will coordinate with various UNICEF divisions and partners, track policy outcomes, and submit regular progress reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 10 years of experience in global health policy, financing, and advocacy, with demonstrated experience in influencing or working with high-level global platforms such as the G7, G20, World Bank, and IMF. A strong understanding of primary health care, health systems, and related issues is essential. Exceptional writing and strategic communication skills are required, along with the ability to engage effectively with senior government officials and multilateral partners. Previous experience with UNICEF or other UN agencies is advantageous, as is political advisory experience for governments or international organizations. Strong diplomatic negotiation and coalition-building skills are also important for this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, with a degree in Public Policy, International Relations, Global Health, Political Science, or a related field. Candidates should have a solid foundation in the principles and practices of global health policy and advocacy, as well as an understanding of the political landscape surrounding health financing and policy commitments.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in global health policy and advocacy, specifically at the international level. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with high-level stakeholders and influencing policy outcomes in complex political environments. Experience working with UNICEF or similar organizations is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the workings of international financial institutions and global health initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both written and spoken formats, as the role involves drafting reports and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is home/office based and is expected to last from February 1, 2026, to February 15, 202

• The consultant will be required to submit a financial proposal that includes costs for each deliverable and any additional expenses related to travel, health insurance, and living costs. UNICEF will cover any emergent travel expenses, and the selected candidate must have current health insurance coverage at the time of contract award. Payment will be contingent upon the satisfactory completion of deliverables, and UNICEF reserves the right to withhold payment for unsatisfactory work. Candidates must also confirm their vaccination status against COVID-19, although this requirement does not apply to those working remotely.