Consultant for Maternal Perinatal Deaths Surveillance and Response systems (MPDSR)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, and its strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that all individuals have access to the necessary resources and support to achieve their reproductive health goals, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization is committed to ethical standards and principled staff who embody international norms and standards.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to support UNFPA's Asia-Pacific Regional Office (APRO) in implementing a technical assistance and capacity-building program focused on Maternal Perinatal Deaths Surveillance and Response systems (MPDSR) in priority countries within the Asia-Pacific region. This program is a continuation of activities initiated in 2025 under the SRHR Data Strengthening program, which was funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and implemented in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, and Timor-Leste. The selected consultant will provide technical assistance to Ministries of Health teams in these countries, ensuring the implementation of MPDSR at both national and sub-national levels, including health facilities. The consultant will be responsible for delivering virtual and in-country support, facilitating training programs, and reinforcing the development of response plans to enhance maternal and perinatal health outcomes. The role requires collaboration with UNFPA and health ministries to ensure adherence to international guidelines and standards in MPDSR implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Providing virtual technical support to UNFPA and Ministry of Health (MOH) teams to expand and implement MPDSR training programs according to international standards at provincial and sub-national levels.
• Implementing a system of supportive supervision, which includes assisting with MPDSR reporting and analysis, and conducting regular virtual check-ins and meetings with country teams organized by UNFPA APRO and Country Offices.
• Offering continued technical assistance to MOH teams in reviewing and reporting maternal and perinatal deaths, while also strengthening community MPDSR review processes as needed in the program countries.
• Supporting countries in implementing corrective actions based on the review of MPDSR reports, advising on recommended next steps or capacity-building needs in obstetrics and maternity care.
• Assisting UNFPA APRO in developing training materials, protocols, and other technical guidance for MPDSR implementation in community settings, and disseminating this guidance to countries in the broader Asia-Pacific region.
• Participating in technical webinars or workshops organized by UNFPA APRO to share knowledge on MPDSR implementation with countries in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Medicine, Public Health, Midwifery, or Health Sciences, along with a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in Medicine and Public Health roles. Proven expertise in implementing Reproductive and Maternal health programs is essential, particularly in the context of Maternal Perinatal Deaths Surveillance and Response systems. Specialization in Obstetrics and Gynaecology is desirable. Candidates should have a strong ability to produce policy documents that reflect the latest international guidelines and evidence, as well as the capacity to meet deadlines, work with minimal supervision, and deliver high-quality products. Strong interpersonal skills are required to work effectively in diverse country contexts, and a commitment to the values and goals of the United Nations is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Medicine, Public Health, Midwifery, or Health Sciences. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of maternal and reproductive health issues and for effectively contributing to the development and implementation of MPDSR systems.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 15 years in professional roles related to Medicine and Public Health. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in implementing Maternal Perinatal Deaths Surveillance and Response systems, including delivering training for clinicians and Ministry of Health staff. Experience within the UN system or with UNFPA, as well as knowledge of the Asia-Pacific region, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Excellent writing skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and health ministries.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 70 working days, scheduled between May 1, 2026, and December 15, 202

• The consultant will work from their home base, with potential travel to TUSIP program countries based on technical needs and program requirements. UNFPA APRO will cover travel costs in accordance with UN Travel Policies and Procedures. The role is designed to be flexible, allowing for remote work while also accommodating necessary travel to support program implementation. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.