Forecast Accuracy Consultant

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Position Title: Forecast Accuracy Consultant
Location: Ethiopia
Country: Ethiopia
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and aims to improve health outcomes through effective supply chain management and forecasting.

Job Overview:
The position of Forecast Accuracy Consultant is critical for ensuring that the forecasting of sexual and reproductive health commodities aligns with actual consumption. This role involves conducting a thorough situation analysis, developing methodologies for measuring and reporting forecast accuracy, and providing capacity building to relevant stakeholders. The consultant will work closely with the UNFPA Country Office and other partners to enhance forecasting capabilities, ultimately leading to better resource allocation and improved public health outcomes. The consultant will also be responsible for establishing a systematic approach to track and report forecast accuracy, which is essential for maintaining adequate supplies of health commodities and preventing stockouts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a situation analysis to review existing data sources and forecasting practices, documenting factors influencing demand planning.
• Develop a comprehensive methodology for measuring and reporting forecast accuracy, including defining types of forecast errors and establishing robust data collection procedures.
• Facilitate stakeholder consultations to gather input and ensure buy-in for the methodology.
• Provide capacity building by training relevant staff in the Ministry of Health and partner organizations on the application of the methodology.
• Develop and implement a national forecasting accuracy measurement system, including templates and dashboards for reporting.
• Ensure data governance by adhering to UNFPA's data privacy policies.
• Conduct desk reviews, stakeholder interviews, and data analysis to inform system improvements.
• Present findings to stakeholders for validation and develop a final report detailing insights and recommendations.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced degree in Supply Chain Management, Public Health, Statistics, Data Analytics, or related fields.
• Additional qualifications in health economics, policy and administration, or health systems management are an asset.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in supply chain management or related roles.
• Proven expertise in forecasting methodologies and supply chain management in the public health sector.
• Experience in developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
• Familiarity with Forecasting Accuracy metrics and analytical tools is an asset.
• Strong written and spoken presentation skills, with the ability to synthesize complex documents for diverse audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and capability to develop and maintain partnerships.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in relevant fields such as Supply Chain Management, Public Health, Statistics, or Data Analytics. Additional qualifications in health economics or health systems management are considered advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in supply chain management or related roles. Candidates should have proven expertise in forecasting methodologies and experience in developing monitoring and evaluation frameworks, particularly in the public health sector.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of local languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will primarily be based in Ethiopia, with expected travel to Zambia for stakeholder engagement and assessments. Regular progress reporting will be required, with a minimum of weekly updates to the supervisor. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Ethiopia country office Deputy Representative and collaborate with various teams. The position promotes gender equality and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and underrepresented groups. UNFPA does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.