Deputy Director, Immunization Supply

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of children and ensure their well-being. The organization is dedicated to reaching the most disadvantaged children and providing them with the necessary support to fulfill their potential. UNICEF is known for its critical role in global health, particularly in vaccine procurement and supply, and collaborates with various partners to strengthen immunization programs worldwide.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director, Immunization Supply will lead the Immunization Supply Pillar within UNICEF's Supply Division. This role involves providing management oversight across the Vaccine Centre and Energy & Infrastructure Centre, setting strategic goals for vaccine procurement and related supplies. The position requires collaboration with country programs to address supply policy issues and advisory services relevant to vaccines. The Deputy Director will also oversee emergency response strategies during outbreaks and ensure compliance with UN financial regulations in procurement processes. This role is crucial for ensuring that UNICEF meets its objectives for vaccine security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and supports immunization programs effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the Immunization Supply Pillar, providing management oversight across the Vaccine Centre and Energy & Infrastructure Centre.
• Set strategic goals and directions for vaccine procurement and related supplies in alignment with UNICEF's Strategic Plan.
• Support country programs on supply policy issues and provide advisory services on vaccine-related matters.
• Recommend policy changes related to vaccine supply and services.
• Direct the development of market strategies and procurement approaches in collaboration with other Supply Division leaders.
• Advise on preparedness and response strategies for vaccine-related emergencies, ensuring efficient supply operations during outbreaks.
• Ensure compliance with UN Financial Rules and Regulations in procurement processes.
• Manage program-related funds and establish quality-assured immunization supply priorities.
• Coordinate with partners engaged in the Immunization Agenda 2030 and lead internal coordination for procurement activities. 1
• Represent UNICEF at major meetings and conferences related to immunization supply and policy development.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in Business/Management, pharmaceutical science, Public Health, epidemiology, law, or related disciplines.
• A minimum of thirteen (13) years of relevant professional experience in health procurement programs, particularly in vaccines and immunization products.
• Senior experience in public procurement and market influence.
• Proven management experience is essential, along with strategic leadership and soft skills.
• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of another official UN language or a local language is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree, such as a Master's or higher, in fields related to Business/Management, pharmaceutical science, Public Health, epidemiology, law, or other relevant disciplines. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of health procurement and immunization programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of thirteen (13) years of relevant professional experience in health procurement programs, with a strong emphasis on knowledge of vaccines and immunization products. Candidates should have senior experience in public procurement and the ability to influence markets effectively. Proven management experience is also crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of UNICEF's international professional employment framework, which includes mobility as a condition of employment. Candidates must undergo medical clearance and comply with vaccination requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Selected candidates will be subject to rigorous background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds, including those with disabilities, to apply.