Cold Chain Specialist Vaccine Management

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them realize their full potential from early childhood to adolescence. The organization is committed to providing diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff, allowing them to enhance their sense of purpose while serving children and communities worldwide. UNICEF has been active in Cameroon since 1975, welcoming individuals who wish to thrive in a diverse and passionate culture, embodying its values to give their best for the development of children in Cameroon.

Job Overview:
The Cold Chain Specialist will support the coordination, planning, implementation, and monitoring of logistics activities related to the cold chain and vaccine management. This role is crucial in assisting central, regional, and district levels in managing the logistics of the cold chain and vaccine management to eradicate poliomyelitis. The specialist will work under the supervision of the Health Specialist and will be responsible for ensuring that the logistics operations are efficient and effective, contributing to the overall goal of maintaining high vaccination coverage and managing vaccine supplies effectively. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, particularly in emergency contexts. The specialist will also be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government partners and other organizations involved in vaccination campaigns.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee the logistics of the cold chain and vaccine management activities at central, regional, and district levels.
• Develop and implement strategies for effective cold chain management and vaccine distribution.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of cold chain systems and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Ensure compliance with national and international standards for vaccine storage and handling.
• Train and support health staff on cold chain logistics and vaccine management best practices.
• Collaborate with partners to plan and execute vaccination campaigns, ensuring that all logistical aspects are addressed.
• Analyze data related to vaccine supply and demand to inform decision-making.
• Prepare reports on logistics operations and provide updates to stakeholders.
• Maintain good relationships with all partners involved in vaccination efforts. 1
• Work in emergency situations to ensure the continuity of vaccination programs.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in logistics management or related fields (pharmacy, engineering) is required.
• Specialized knowledge in supply chain and health logistics, particularly in the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).
• At least 5 years of professional experience in managing EPI logistics at national and international levels.
• Proven experience in managing cold chain logistics, vaccine management, and waste management.
• Experience in managing logistics for vaccination campaigns, particularly with monovalent type 2 oral polio vaccine (OPV) is an asset.
• Strong writing skills and the ability to produce clear and concise documentation.
• Leadership skills and experience in team collaboration and adult training.
• Proficiency in computer tools, especially Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with EPI logistics tools (eSMT, supply sizing tool, Forecast, cold chain inventory tools). 1
• Strong organizational and managerial skills, with the ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in logistics management or related fields such as pharmacy or engineering is required. Candidates should have specialized training in supply chain management and health logistics, with a strong understanding of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) and its operational aspects, particularly in mass vaccination campaigns.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in managing logistics for the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) at both national and international levels. Experience in emergency contexts and developing countries is highly desirable. The role requires a proven track record in cold chain management, vaccine logistics, and the ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, along with a good command of English, both spoken and written. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Yaounde, Cameroon. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including opportunities for professional development. Candidates selected for the position will undergo a thorough background check and must adhere to UNICEF's standards of conduct, including a zero-tolerance policy for exploitation and abuse. The role may require compliance with vaccination requirements, including against COVID-19.