International Individual Consultant for the Revision of RHCS

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing approximately 4,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to advancing the goals of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, with a mission to promote gender equality, reproductive health, and the empowerment of women and girls. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its commitment to addressing complex global challenges and fostering resilience and renewal in the face of evolving development needs.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant (IC) will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance to review the current implementation status of the Reproductive Health Commodity security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (RHCS) system in Timor-Leste. This position involves developing a comprehensive, costed RHCS strategy and Plan of Action for the years 2026 to 2030, focusing on contraceptives and essential maternal health medicines. The consultant will work under the guidance of the UNFPA Representative and will report to the Supply Chain Management Officer. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials and development partners, to ensure sustainable access to quality reproductive health commodities. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the current RHCS environment, identifying gaps, and proposing strategic interventions to enhance the effectiveness of the RHCS system in Timor-Leste.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive RHCS Situation Assessment and Review, which involves evaluating the current RHCS strategy, assessing the RHCS environment, and identifying gaps in the existing framework.
• Performing Supply Chain and System Analysis to review forecasting practices, procurement processes, and government financing for RH commodities.
• Developing a revised RHCS Strategy for 2026-2030 that outlines vision, objectives, governance mechanisms, and a costed implementation plan.
• Reviewing the National FP Plan and preparing a detailed implementation plan for 2027-203
• Finalizing and reporting on the RHCS strategy, including facilitating stakeholder consultations and incorporating feedback into the final documents. Deliverables will be submitted electronically to UNFPA, with specific timelines for each task.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Public Health, Medicine, Health Economics, Health Systems Management, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience is required, demonstrating strong expertise in Reproductive Health Commodity Security (RHCS), forecasting, and supply chain management. Proven experience in developing national health strategies and action plans is essential, along with excellent analytical, facilitation, and report-writing skills. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of Logistics Management Information Systems (LMIS) and health systems strengthening.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Public Health, Medicine, Health Economics, Health Systems Management, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of reproductive health and the systems that support it.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in the field of reproductive health, particularly in areas related to commodity security, forecasting, and supply chain management. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing national health strategies and action plans, showcasing their ability to navigate complex health systems and contribute to effective program implementation.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. This requirement ensures effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders and partners involved in the RHCS strategy development process.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 40 working days upon signing of the contract. The work will be a combination of home-based tasks and in-country missions, specifically 8 days in Dili and 2 days in selected municipalities. The consultant will be required to travel to Timor-Leste for national consultations and validation workshops as part of the RHCS review process. The position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, and emphasizes UNFPA's commitment to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.