International Consultant – Consolidating National Capacity for SRH Emergency Preparedness

Job Posting Organization:
The UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is planned, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every individual has access to sexual and reproductive health services. The organization emphasizes emergency preparedness as a critical component of its strategic plan for 2026-2029, particularly in light of the increasing natural disasters and humanitarian crises affecting populations worldwide.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to support the Ministry of Health and the National Crisis Management Center of Moldova in designing and executing a multi-sectoral simulation exercise (SIMEX) focused on Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) emergency preparedness. The consultant will develop an After-Action Report and Improvement Plan (AAR/IP) based on the outcomes of the simulation. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of SRH needs in crisis contexts and the ability to facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including health authorities and emergency management agencies. The consultant will be responsible for creating a detailed SIMEX package that includes a concept note, capacity-building materials, and a structured approach to conducting the exercise, ensuring that it effectively tests the integration of SRH response capabilities into national crisis management frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key phases of work: 1) Design and Development of the SIMEX Package, which includes creating a concept note that outlines the scope, strategic goals, and methodology for the simulation exercise, as well as developing a comprehensive guide detailing execution flow and participant roles. 2) Conducting the Simulation Exercise, where the consultant will facilitate the entire process, ensuring effective communication and engagement among participants, and leading post-exercise debriefing sessions. 3) Post-Simulation Exercise Analytical Case Study Report, which involves analyzing the results of the SIMEX, identifying challenges and gaps, and proposing recommendations for integrating SRH into national crisis management architecture. The consultant will also be responsible for ensuring that the final report includes lessons learned and is suitable for cross-border knowledge sharing with Ukraine.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or higher) in Public Health, Crisis/Emergency Management, Humanitarian Affairs, International Development, or related fields. They should have at least seven years of senior-level professional experience in SRH emergency preparedness and response, with a preference for experience in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) countries. The consultant should demonstrate a proven ability to design multisectoral simulation exercises and draft formal exercise doctrines, as well as experience working with government ministries and crisis management authorities. Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of additional languages such as Romanian, Russian, or Ukrainian is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in relevant fields such as Public Health, Crisis Management, or International Development is required. This educational background should provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively address the complexities of SRH emergency preparedness and response in crisis situations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of demonstrated experience in the field of SRH emergency preparedness and response. Candidates should have a strong portfolio that showcases their ability to design and implement multisectoral simulation exercises and their experience in advising or coordinating with health ministries and crisis management centers, particularly in the context of EECA countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, working knowledge of one or more of the following languages is considered a strong asset: Romanian, Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian, or sign language. This multilingual capability will enhance communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and facilitate effective knowledge sharing.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to commence on June 11, 2026, and conclude on August 31, 2026, with an estimated total of 30 working days. The consultant will work both remotely and in-country, with specific deliverables due at various stages throughout the consultancy period. Payment will be made in two tranches based on the successful completion of deliverables, and the consultant will be required to complete mandatory training courses before signing the contract. UNFPA will provide logistical support for the in-country mission, including travel arrangements and necessary documentation.