Programme Specialist, Reproductive Health Commodity Security (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, employing thousands of staff dedicated to improving reproductive health and gender equality. The organization is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and works towards ending unmet needs for family planning, preventable maternal deaths, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's mission is driven by a focus on evidence-based policies and programs that respect human rights and promote gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist, Reproductive Health Commodity security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (RHCS) position is a critical role within UNFPA, responsible for the effective management of reproductive health commodity supply chains across multiple countries in the Pacific region. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and coordination skills to ensure that essential reproductive health commodities are accessible and managed sustainably. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and UNFPA teams, to enhance the performance of reproductive health programs. The role involves leveraging data to inform decision-making, addressing logistical bottlenecks, and implementing targeted interventions to strengthen contraceptive logistics management systems. The Programme Specialist will also play a key role in capacity building for governments and partners, ensuring that national supply and distribution plans are effectively developed and executed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include:

• Programme Management and Technical Support: Build the capacity of governments and partners in RH commodities quantification, forecasting, and supply planning. Provide technical assistance for the development and review of national supply and distribution plans. Support domestic advocacy for increased government financing for RH commodities. Assist Ministries of Health in optimizing distribution planning to manage shelf life and reduce product expiry. Oversee the implementation of mSupply and Contraceptive Logistics Management System (CLMS). Monitor inventory through physical stock counts and reconciliations. Coordinate last-mile delivery activities to ensure timely supply of contraceptives and lifesaving medicines. Facilitate timely collection and analysis of stock data and submission of quarterly RHCS reports. Track procurement and inventory flows between UNFPA and national warehousing systems. Support customs clearance and coordination with port authorities.
• Coordination and Governance: Contribute to the development and implementation of work plans in line with the UNFPA Supplies Partnership Phase III Programme across 14 Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICT). Provide technical inputs to national RMNCAH and quantification committees.
• Evidence and Knowledge Development: Identify, analyze, and synthesize technical knowledge and evidence-based information in RHCS. Organize and participate in meetings to assess progress of the UNFPA Supplies Partnership Phase III Program. Support country offices in identifying opportunities and lessons learned.
• Monitoring and Evaluation Support: Gather and compile data necessary for monitoring and reporting on the UNFPA Supplies partnership program. Monitor implementation activities and expenditure of funds in assigned countries. Conduct regular monitoring visits and provide inputs on program activities to UNFPA PSRO reports.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Specialist position include:

• Education: An advanced university degree in public health, pharmacy, business administration, procurement, supply chain management, or other fields directly related to the work.
• Knowledge and Experience: A minimum of five years of professional experience in reproductive health, family planning, or contraceptive logistics management at the national or international level. Sound knowledge of supply chain management principles, including forecasting, quantification, procurement, warehousing, distribution, and inventory management. Familiarity with UN development programs and procedures, particularly UNFPA policies, is an asset. Proficiency in MS Office, database management, and experience with mSupply software is desirable. Certification in Supply Chain Management or Programme Management is also desirable. Strong technical writing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as public health, pharmacy, business administration, procurement, or supply chain management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of reproductive health commodity security and the management of supply chains.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in reproductive health, family planning, or contraceptive logistics management. This experience should ideally include work at both national and international levels, demonstrating a solid understanding of supply chain management and the operational aspects of integrated sexual and reproductive health.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse populations and stakeholders in the Pacific region.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and equal opportunities for all applicants, regardless of personal characteristics. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.