MSNP Policy and Governance Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of children and ensure their well-being. The organization focuses on reaching the most disadvantaged children in some of the world's toughest places, aiming to save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential. UNICEF operates with a mission to build a better world for every child, emphasizing the importance of care and support for every child, everywhere, every day.

Job Overview:
The MSNP Policy and Governance Consultant will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance to the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MoFAGA) and local governments in Nepal. The consultant's primary responsibility will be to institutionalize nutrition-friendly governance across all tiers of government, ensuring that the Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan (MSNP) is effectively integrated into local government plans and budgets. This position requires the consultant to generate and utilize evidence to inform decision-making, enhance community engagement, and advocate for improved nutrition outcomes. The consultant will also facilitate policy dialogues and build strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and the private sector. Strengthening the capacity of government entities and enhancing coordination mechanisms for multi-sectoral nutrition interventions will be key focuses of this role, contributing to improved governance, accountability, and sustainability in MSNP implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will support MoFAGA and local governments in integrated planning, programming, implementation, monitoring, and mainstreaming of the MSNP. Key tasks include increasing investments in nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions, conducting capacity needs assessments, developing training plans, and preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for MSNP activities. The consultant will also assist local governments in incorporating MSNP into their periodic plans, support the development of the Annual Work Programme and Budget (AWPB) for FY 2025/26, and enhance the Web-Based Reporting System (WBRS) for effective monitoring of MSNP implementation. Additionally, the consultant will facilitate capacity-building workshops, develop advocacy materials, and document good practices and lessons learned from MSNP implementation at various levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in public health, nutrition, agriculture/livestock, social and behavioral science, public policy, communication studies, or related fields. A minimum of five years of professional experience in health, nutrition, governance, social development program planning, and social behavior change communication is required. Experience in program development and management, particularly within government and non-government sectors, is desirable. Relevant experience with UN agencies is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication, advocacy, and social mobilization skills, along with proficiency in MS Office Suite and the ability to work independently.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's degree in a relevant field such as public health, nutrition, agriculture/livestock, social and behavioral science, public policy, or communication studies. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and expertise to effectively contribute to the goals of the MSNP and support the various stakeholders involved in its implementation.

Experience:
The consultant should have at least five years of professional experience in areas related to health, nutrition, governance, and social development. Experience in program/project development and management, particularly in health and nutrition, is crucial. Familiarity with social behavior change communication and experience working with government and non-government organizations will be beneficial. Relevant experience within a UN system agency or organization is considered an asset, as it demonstrates an understanding of the operational context and challenges faced in such environments.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Nepali is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, preparation of reports, and facilitation of training and capacity-building activities. Additional language skills may be advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is for a duration of eight months, tentatively starting from mid-June 202

• UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from under-represented ethnic groups and female candidates to apply. The selected candidate will not be considered a staff member under UN regulations and will not be entitled to benefits such as leave entitlements and medical insurance coverage. Candidates are responsible for their tax liabilities and must ensure that their health insurance is valid for the contract duration. Financial proposals should be submitted in Nepalese currency, with additional costs for field travel indicated separately.