Consultant for National Lead Prevention Strategy Development

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, save their lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. UNICEF operates with a commitment to never give up on any child, striving to build a better world for everyone, every day.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing Bhutan's National Lead Prevention Strategy, which aims to address the significant public health challenge posed by lead exposure, particularly among children and pregnant women. The strategy will provide a comprehensive, evidence-based roadmap to eliminate sources of lead exposure and promote multi-sectoral coordination among health, environment, education, trade, and industry sectors. The consultant will review existing evidence, conduct stakeholder consultations, and develop a costed action plan and monitoring framework to ensure sustainable interventions that protect vulnerable populations from lead exposure.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare an inception report outlining the timeline, methodology, and work plan for the assignment.
• Conduct a desk review and situational analysis of existing national policies and strategies related to lead exposure.
• Analyze the findings of the National Blood Lead Level Survey (NLBSS) 2024 to assess prevalence and geographic distribution of lead exposure.
• Prepare a draft National Lead Prevention Strategy that articulates clear vision, goals, and strategic objectives.
• Facilitate stakeholder consultations to validate the draft strategy and develop a regulatory framework.
• Finalize the National Lead Prevention Strategy incorporating feedback from stakeholders.
• Develop a monitoring and evaluation framework with indicators for tracking progress.
• Present the final strategy and action plan to the Ministry of Health and development partners.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master's or higher) in Public Health, Environmental Health, Health Policy, or related fields.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in public health strategy development or environmental health.
• Proven experience in designing national strategies or action plans related to environmental health or chemical safety.
• Knowledge of Bhutan’s health system and policy landscape is an asset.
• Strong communication, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience in stakeholder consultations and technical writing.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or higher) in relevant fields such as Public Health, Environmental Health, or Health Policy. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of lead exposure and developing effective prevention strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in public health strategy development, environmental health, or health policy and planning. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing national strategies or action plans, particularly in areas related to environmental health or chemical safety.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the consultant will need to communicate effectively with stakeholders and produce written reports. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be completed by December 2025, with specific deliverables and payment schedules outlined. The consultant will work independently but report progress to the Health and Nutrition Officer of UNICEF Bhutan. The position is not a staff role, and consultants are responsible for their tax liabilities and ensuring valid visas and health insurance for the duration of the contract.