National Consultant on Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBC) for Immunization and Community Engagement

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 fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support for children's health and well-being.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBC) for Immunization and Community Engagement will play a crucial role in UNICEF Lao PDR's efforts to enhance immunization demand and community engagement in public health initiatives. The consultant will work closely with government partners, including the Ministry of Health and other relevant organizations, to design, implement, and monitor SBC strategies aimed at improving immunization coverage and addressing issues such as vaccine hesitancy. This position is vital in ensuring that the community is actively involved in health initiatives, particularly in areas with low immunization rates and high levels of misinformation. The consultant will also focus on broader public health priorities, including adolescent health and the prevention of early marriage, aligning with national health strategies and UNICEF's mission to support vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities will include:

• Developing and refining SBC strategies for immunization, including campaigns targeting zero-dose children and routine immunization.
• Coordinating with various stakeholders, including government ministries and mass organizations, to ensure aligned community engagement approaches.
• Designing and implementing SBC interventions for adolescent health and early marriage prevention.
• Strengthening community feedback mechanisms by engaging local influencers, health workers, and youth networks.
• Monitoring and evaluating community engagement activities across targeted provinces and districts, adapting interventions based on evidence and feedback.
• Collaborating with the Health and Nutrition team to ensure comprehensive support for public health initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor or Master Degree in Communications, Public Health, International Relations, Economics, Public Relations, Social Sciences, or a related field. Additionally, they should have at least 4 years of relevant work experience at the national or international level in communication, knowledge management, or similar areas. Strong skills in teamwork, stress management, and political/cultural sensitivity are essential, along with the ability to produce high-quality deliverables under tight deadlines. Candidates should demonstrate effective communication skills, both written and oral, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor or Master Degree in relevant fields such as Communications, Public Health, International Relations, Economics, Public Relations, or Social Sciences is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of public health communication and community engagement strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience, preferably at both national and international levels. Experience in communication, knowledge management, and community engagement in public health contexts is highly valued. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in development, fragile settings, or humanitarian contexts, demonstrating their ability to adapt to various challenges and environments.

Languages:
Working fluency in Lao and English is essential for this role. Proficiency in these languages will enable effective communication with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that public health messages are conveyed accurately and effectively. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is a consultancy role, and details regarding contract duration, seniority level, and whether it is full-time or part-time are not specified. UNICEF promotes an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must meet medical clearance requirements.