National Consultant – NCD Dietary Risk Factor Regulation

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to combat diseases, improve health systems, and ensure that everyone can access essential health services. The organization focuses on various health issues, including noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), infectious diseases, and health emergencies, and collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to implement effective health policies and programs.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant is tasked with reviewing existing policies and regulations related to dietary risk factors and noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention in Myanmar. This role is crucial as Myanmar faces a significant increase in NCDs, driven by unhealthy dietary practices and insufficient physical activity. The consultant will identify gaps in current policies, support advocacy efforts, and contribute to policy reform aimed at improving public health outcomes. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the dietary landscape in Myanmar, including the high prevalence of risk factors such as high sodium intake and low fruit and vegetable consumption. The consultant will work closely with WHO Myanmar to develop evidence-based recommendations and facilitate stakeholder engagement to promote healthier food environments and reduce dietary risk factors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key outputs: 1) Develop a desk review methodology and workplan tailored to the Myanmar context for reviewing national laws and policies related to dietary risk factors. 2) Conduct a comprehensive desk review of existing laws, policies, and guidelines, preparing a Policy and Regulatory Gap Analysis Report that identifies strengths and areas for improvement. 3) Create a tailored Advocacy Package that includes policy briefs and stakeholder engagement plans, validated through consultations and interviews. 4) Identify and engage relevant ministries and stakeholders, facilitating a national multisectoral workshop to discuss NCD burdens and policy gaps. 5) Support the development of a Roadmap or Action Plan for Policy and Regulatory Reform, incorporating stakeholder recommendations and submitting a final report. The consultant must maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards throughout the assignment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a first university degree in public health, nutrition, medicine, health sciences, or related fields. A master's or advanced degree in public health, nutrition, health policy, or related areas is desirable. Specialized training in nutrition policy, NCD prevention, or policy analysis will be considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of NCD prevention and dietary risk factors, as well as knowledge of WHO recommendations and international best practices. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office and information management.

Educational Background:
The essential educational requirement is a minimum first university degree in relevant fields such as public health, nutrition, or health sciences. A master's degree or advanced qualification in public health, nutrition, health policy, or related fields is highly desirable. Specialized training in areas related to dietary risk factors and NCD prevention will enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have between 5 to 10 years of relevant professional experience in public health, nutrition, NCD prevention and control, or health policy. Experience in reviewing dietary policies, conducting policy gap analyses, and developing advocacy materials is essential. Previous work with WHO, UN agencies, or government institutions will be advantageous, as will experience in facilitating multisectoral consultations and workshops.

Languages:
Excellence in English is mandatory, as well as proficiency in Myanmar. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not required for this position.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 20 working days within the period from October 1, 2026, to December 15, 202

• The consultant will be compensated at a rate of USD 165 per day, totaling USD 3,300 for the duration of the contract. Travel arrangements will be made based on the needs of the assignment, and the consultant is expected to maintain confidentiality regarding all information and documents received during the assignment. The position is subject to local recruitment, and candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment.