Reproductive, Maternal, Child, Adolescent and Sexual Health (RMNCAH) Social and Behaviour Change Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the population of Fiji. Established to provide comprehensive health services, the Ministry focuses on various health sectors, including reproductive health, maternal and child health, and public health initiatives. The Ministry employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with international organizations such as UNFPA to enhance health outcomes. The organization operates within the framework of national health policies and strategies, aiming to deliver effective health services across Fiji.

Job Overview:
The RMNCAH Social and Behaviour Change Consultant will play a crucial role in the Family Health Unit of the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services. This position involves working closely with the UNFPA PSRO Fiji Country Office to report on all RMNCAH SBC activities. The consultant will be part of a multi-disciplinary team, contributing to the implementation of the RMNCAH Policy Implementation Strategy and the Health Sector Strategy. The consultant will coordinate with various stakeholders, including program officers and clinical service chairpersons, to ensure effective program delivery. The role requires the consultant to conduct formative research, develop behavior change communication strategies, and support the implementation of RMNCAH programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: conducting a desk review to inform the development of the RMNCAH communications strategic plan; developing a working group with stakeholders; designing and implementing community outreach efforts; providing technical support to increase demand for RMNCAH services; conducting formative research to inform communications; drafting quarterly and annual reports on RMNCAH SBC activities; monitoring and evaluating SBC interventions; assisting in fund management and operations; preparing communication campaigns; engaging with media and other organizations; overseeing official communications related to RMNCAH programs; and documenting and disseminating program delivery and advocacy activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level degree or higher in Communications, Public Health, Social Sciences, or a related field. A minimum of four years of experience in communications or public health is required, with a focus on risk communication and community engagement. Experience related to disease outbreaks, immunization, or public health emergencies is essential. Familiarity with inter-agency mechanisms and previous work with development partners and government agencies is preferred. Experience in SRH/RMNCAH is advantageous, and prior work with the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services is strongly desired.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a first-level degree or higher in relevant fields such as Communications, Public Health, or Social Sciences. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the RMNCAH programs and initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience in communications or public health, particularly in areas related to risk communication and community engagement. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in public health settings, especially in relation to disease outbreaks and public health emergencies. Experience working with various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society organizations, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English is the primary language of communication within the organization and for the role.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be seconded to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and will be provided with a workstation and necessary materials. The payment will be made on a monthly basis upon satisfactory delivery of the associated deliverables. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks and other administrative requirements.