Job Opportunity: Social and Behavior Change Consultant

Job no: 564480
Contract type: Consultant
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Level: Consultancy
Categories: Social and Behavior Change

About UNICEF

UNICEF works tirelessly to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children, defending their rights and helping them fulfill their potential. With a presence in 190 countries and territories, we strive to build a better world for every child, every day.

Terms of Reference

Background

Kenya has recently experienced a confirmed Polio outbreak, necessitating urgent action. UNICEF, as a key partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), is mandated to provide technical assistance and fast-track effective SBC (Social and Behavior Change) responses during such outbreaks. To achieve this, we are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Social and Behavior Change Consultant to support our efforts.

Justification

Disease outbreaks require swift and thorough action from SBC professionals. This consultancy role is crucial to provide technical support and participate in coordination meetings with key partners, ensuring that the outbreak response is well-coordinated and effective.

Scope of Work

The selected consultant will work closely with UNICEF SBC Specialists/Officers, the Ministry of Health, and the County Department of Health. The scope of work includes:

1. Data Collection and Analysis: Enhance data collection, analysis, and triangulation to inform strategic planning for risk communication and community engagement.
2. Data Quality Assurance: Verify data quality and identify gaps in Polio SBC health information management, recommending corrective actions.
3. Data Analysis and Reporting: Develop automated processes for social investigation, routine data analysis, and dashboards for monitoring SBC performance indicators and emergency preparedness.
4. Document Preparation: Prepare relevant documents for internal and external situation reports, bulletins, and health risk assessments.
5. Monthly SBC Polio Data Profiles: Compile and complete monthly SBC Polio data profiles and assessments.
6. Information Sharing: Respond to information requests and facilitate the generation of intersectoral reports for dissemination and knowledge sharing with partners.
7. Data Warehousing: Ensure proper storage and security controls for data and information handled.
8. Knowledge Transfer: Enhance staff data management capacity through knowledge transfer.
9. Collaboration: Work closely with MOH ACSM/Data sub-committee/TWG members to develop, implement, and monitor social media messages for addressing misinformation, disinformation, and vaccine hesitancy.
10. Consultancy Report: Submit a final consultancy report with best practices, recommendations, gaps, and challenges.

Desired Competencies, Technical Background, and Experience

• Advanced university degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences, Communication for Development, Psychology, Journalism & Mass Communication, or Public Health.
• At least 4 years of professional work experience at national and county levels in health education & promotion, health communication, immunization/Polio SBC, or other relevant programs.
• Proven expertise in information and data management, particularly managing social data.
• Fluency in English and Kiswahili required; knowledge of local languages will be an asset.
• Experience in working in a public health emergency context is an asset.
• Familiarity with the polio program and knowledge of UNICEF SBC efforts would be an additional asset.

Competencies For a Consultant

• Ability to work quickly and effectively in a multi-cultural environment, with experience working with the Kenyan government preferred.
• Familiarity and/or experience with UNICEF and the UN system is desired.
• Excellent facilitation skills to plan, prepare, and present technical concepts to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including facilitation, negotiation, and active listening.
• Strong analytical skills using existing and new data.

For Every Child

At UNICEF, we uphold our values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS).

To view our competency framework,

How to Apply: Consultant

Interested and qualified candidates should apply online using the button below. As part of their application, candidates should provide:

1. A cover letter that specifies how you meet the desired competencies, technical background, and experience (no more than 2 pages).
2. A short CV (no more than 4 pages).
3. A financial proposal that includes the daily rate and total fees in USD for the assignment. (Any application without a financial proposal will not be considered).
4. 3 Referees.

Advertised: 27 Jul 2023 E. Africa Standard Time
Deadline: 05 Aug 2023 E. Africa Standard Time

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EXPERT Tips To Be A Successful Applicant – Consultant

Here are some helpful tips for a successful application:

1. Customize Your Application: Tailor your cover letter and CV to showcase how your skills and experience align with the job requirements.
2. Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in health education, health communication, and social data management, especially related to Polio SBC programs.
3. Demonstrate Language Proficiency: Clearly indicate your fluency in English and Kiswahili, and if applicable, mention any knowledge of local languages.
4. Showcase Emergency Response Experience: If you have prior experience in public health emergency contexts, make sure to highlight it in your application.
5. Provide Strong Referees: Choose referees who can vouch for your relevant skills and work experience.
6. Be Thorough: Ensure your application is complete with all required documents, including a well-defined financial proposal.
7. Research UNICEF and GPEI: Familiarize yourself with UNICEF’s mission and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to demonstrate your interest and knowledge during interviews.

By following these tips and presenting your qualifications effectively, you can increase your chances of becoming a valuable member of our team. We look forward to receiving your application!