National Consultant - Policy and Programme Landscaping Analysis for BEP

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of belonging and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Nutrition Manager (Diets and Practices) and with support from the WFP maternal nutrition focal point. The primary responsibility of this role is to conduct a policy review and landscape analysis related to maternal and child nutrition, specifically focusing on supplements and the BEP (Breastfeeding and Early Parenting) program. The consultant will assess program management and service delivery, ensuring that the analysis aligns with UNICEF's mission to improve nutrition outcomes for children and mothers in Nigeria. This position requires a deep understanding of the local context and the ability to analyze data effectively to inform decision-making processes. The consultant will also be expected to engage with various stakeholders to promote synergies and collaborative efforts in the field of nutrition.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive policy review and landscape analysis of maternal and child nutrition programs in Nigeria, focusing on supplements and the BEP.
• Assess the current state of program management and service delivery related to nutrition interventions.
• Collaborate with the WFP maternal nutrition focal point and other stakeholders to gather relevant data and insights.
• Analyze data and interpret findings to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Develop guidelines and plans in collaboration with government entities and other partners.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.
• Maintain effective communication with stakeholders to promote collaboration and synergies.
• Ensure that all work aligns with UNICEF's core values and mission.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in Nutrition Epidemiology, Public Health Nutrition, Biostatistics, Health Promotion, International/Global Health, Health Policy, Food Policy, Public Policy, or another relevant technical field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in maternal and child nutrition policy and programming.
• Excellent knowledge of nutrition, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and health systems in Nigeria.
• Proven experience in conducting nutrition-related surveys and assessments.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data for decision-making.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiatives.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as Nutrition Epidemiology, Public Health Nutrition, Biostatistics, Health Promotion, International/Global Health, Health Policy, Food Policy, or Public Policy. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively analyze and contribute to nutrition policies and programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience in maternal and child nutrition policy and programming. Candidates should have a strong background in nutrition, food security, and health systems, particularly within the Nigerian context. Experience in developing guidelines and plans in collaboration with government entities is also essential, along with a proven track record of conducting nutrition-related surveys and assessments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for collaboration and reporting. Knowledge of a local Nigerian language is considered an asset, as it may facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is 4.4 months, and the working arrangement is home-based. UNICEF emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization also provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Candidates are required to submit a detailed technical proposal, a financial proposal, and a writing sample as part of their application. UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process and maintains a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives.