Consultant for Immunization Supply Chain Management

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories. Its mission is to reach the world's most disadvantaged children, ensuring their rights are defended and their potential is fulfilled. UNICEF employs thousands of staff globally, dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in need, particularly in challenging environments. The organization focuses on health, education, protection, and emergency response, striving to create a better world for every child, everywhere, every day.

Job Overview:
The consultant will deliver specialized technical consultancy services aimed at optimizing immunization supply chain and cold chain management systems in Nepal. This role is critical in ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of the national immunization program, which has seen significant progress but requires ongoing support to prevent setbacks. The consultant will be responsible for developing operational plans, establishing monitoring protocols, providing technical support and capacity building, and facilitating partnerships and coordination among stakeholders. The position demands a commitment to measurable outcomes and the ability to work collaboratively with the Ministry of Health and Population and other partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include developing comprehensive operational plans with clear KPIs and timelines, establishing monitoring protocols for supply chain metrics, designing and conducting training programs for government staff and partners, providing expert consultation in working groups, drafting execution plans, and overseeing the implementation of Gavi-funded activities. Specific deliverables include finalizing an implementation plan in Gantt Chart format, submitting eVARs after supply shipments, coordinating cold chain assessments, facilitating procurement of new equipment, and conducting field monitoring visits. The consultant will also attend regular meetings to provide updates and action points based on the progress of tasks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy, health sciences, Public Health, or Public Administration. They should have a minimum of eight years of experience in immunization programs, particularly in supply chain and cold chain management. Strong knowledge of health supply management is essential, along with good communication skills in English and Nepalese. Nationality of Nepal is required, and qualified females are strongly encouraged to apply.

Educational Background:
A first university degree in pharmacy, health sciences, Public Health, or Public Administration is mandatory for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health supply chains and the specific needs of immunization programs.

Experience:
The position requires at least eight years of relevant experience in the field of immunization programs, with a specific focus on supply chain and cold chain management. This experience should include practical knowledge of health supply management and the ability to implement effective strategies for operational efficiency.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Additionally, knowledge of the Nepalese language is required to facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set for a duration of 364 days, with an initial contract of six months and the possibility of a six-month extension. The consultancy is tentatively scheduled to start on August 1, 202

• UNICEF emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals from under-represented ethnic groups. The selected candidate will not be considered a staff member under UN regulations and will not receive benefits such as leave entitlements or medical insurance. They will be responsible for their tax liabilities and ensuring valid health insurance for the contract duration.