Immunization Supply Chain Data Consultant, UNICEF Supply Division, Copenhagen

Consultancy Title: Immunization Supply Chain Data Consultant

Duration: 2 months (40 days) over 4 months

*Location**:* Home-based but with longer periods in Tajikistan (expected time in Tajikistan maximum 4 weeks)

*Start Date**:* September 2016

*Reporting to**:* Chief Health and Nutrition, UNICEF Tajikistan and Supply Chain Specialist, Director's Office (Market, Financing and Strategic Data Unit - MFSDU), UNICEF Supply Division, Copenhagen

BACKGROUND:

In 2014, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, developed a 2016-2020 strategy to support countries in improving their immunization supply chains. The strategy includes five areas: human resources, improvement planning, data for management, cold chain equipment and system redesign. Gavi undertakes a number of measures to support the implementation of the 2016-2020 strategy including country grants and programme funding, secretariat engagement and Partners' Engagement Framework (PEF). PEF includes targeted country assistance and under this engagement, UNICEF supports Tajikistan in its efforts to improve data use throughout the immunization supply chain.

Tajikistan has a standardized immunization reporting form and with a high reporting rate, immunization data is available for the managers at each supply chain level. Though managers are using data (i.e., to prepare orders), it is still possible to further ease and improve reporting, quality of data and to ensure that good data use practices found in certain regions and districts are described and implemented to promote data-driven management throughout Tajikistan.

DESCRIPTION OF ASSIGNMENT:

Under the supervision of the Chief Health and Nutrition in UNICEF Tajikistan and the Supply Chain Specialist, the consultant's duties and responsibilities will include:

1. Analysis of data quality and use, and mapping of electronic report submission (40% time allocation)**

The consultant will develop a survey to understand the current immunization supply chain data situation and visit a limited number of health facilities at different supply chain levels to get on-site information about the immunization supply chain system. Based on the findings from the survey and the field visits, the consultant will focus the data analysis on the following: 1) mapping electronic submission of immunization supply chain reports and identify reason for not submitting reports electronically, and 2) data quality of the immunization vaccination and supply chain data through a) comparing and triangulating the vaccination administration, vaccine consumption and wastage data to identify if there are inaccuracies between the reported numbers and b) adding up numbers (coverage and supply chain data) from primary data sources at lowest supply chain levels and compare the numbers with the reported data at these levels and the aggregated numbers in Form #2 at higher supply chain levels. During the field visits and through the survey, the consultant will identify versions of home-made recording forms and select the most common or best designed for purpose and standardize them to promote the use of appropriate tools regardless of staff experience. Other types of analysis can be included as relevant. Through this analysis, the consultant will identify capacity gaps of the health workers and managers at different levels as well as the best practices in terms of immunization data use.

1. Identify key performance indicators and improvements to the MS Excel table used for simple analysis of collected data (10% time allocation)

Based on available data at different supply chain levels, identified through the survey and field visits, and identified requests from key stakeholders on specific areas to monitor, identify relevant performance indicators that can be used by managers to monitor and improve the immunization supply chain. Suggest appropriate indicators for national, regional and district managers, as relevant. In addition, identify how the indicators can be visualized in the Excel tables currently used for simple analysis of collected immunization supply chain data and suggest other improvements to the Excel tables for easier and better analysis and use of the reported data. The consultant will develop a detailed plan for improvements to the content of the Excel tables.

2. Increase availability of data, promote the use of appropriate tools and improve reporting and use of data (35% time allocation)

The consultant will support the process of increasing availability of data throughout the country in view of improving forecasting by updating the Form #2 to capture wastage data, cold chain equipment functionality and other data relevant to key performance indicators identified as above. Based on the common practices and best practices identified in the above analysis phase as well as the proposed key performance indicators, the consultant will develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve the reporting, use, and quality of data. The field visits and survey will inform which SOPs are required but could be SOPs on: 1) reporting using Form #2 especially the section on adverse effects following immunization, 2) holding immunization monthly meetings that include supply chain data, and 3) analyzing reported data for improvement. Once SOPs are drafted, they should be pre-tested in the selected locations and the final version should incorporate the testing results.

3. Assess the current stock management systems at national, regional and district level and identify the relevance of introducing electronic stock management system (15% time allocation)

The Tajik stock management system is currently paper-based. An electronic system could potentially improve the management of the stocks contributing to better stock availability and less wastage. Through the survey and field visits as well as stakeholder consultation, the consultant will identify if there is a need to introduce an electronic stock management system at the national, regional and district stores and, if necessary, identify if any available electronic stock management systems would be appropriate. In so doing, the consultant should look into the lessons learned from the electronic stock management system of family planning commodities. The consultant will also explore the opportunity to report supply chain data through the newly introduced DHIS2 and possible integration of an electronic immunization stock management systems with similar systems implemented or planned for other product groups.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Short report with analysis of data quality and use, mapping of electronic report submission with reasons for non-reporting, best practices identified, and capacity gaps of health workers/managers at different levels
• Overview of available tools and reports and suggestions for updates. Updated existing record and reports and development of new forms based on the field visit findings
• List of available standard operating procedures (SOPs) and proposed new SOPs including reason for development
• List of supply chain performance indicators for each supply chain level and a detailed plan for improvements to the content of MS Excel tables to ease and improve analysis and visualization of data
• Short assessment report of the EPI store stock management system with suggestions to appropriate electronic stock management systems
• Presentation of findings when required.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Core Competencies

Competencies: The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the following competencies that are considered to be necessary to this consultancy:

Language: Full professional proficiency in English (written and oral) is required. Russian proficiency will be considered an advantage.

Work Experience: Minimum six years relevant and progressive professional work experience including working with governments on supply chain or performance monitoring.

Education: Master Degree in Public Health, Statistics, Supply Chain Management, Pharmacy or another relevant discipline for health supply chain data use or first university degree with relevant experience in supply chain, data management or visualization.

Excellent communicator of concepts both verbally and in writing to a developing country government and international audience.

Able to work well in a team environment.

Functional Competencies

• Works independently and is problem-solving oriented.
• Works in a multi-cultural environment and establishes harmonious and effective working relationships.
• Demonstrates communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proven capacity to work across different locations utilizing technical skills within supply chain management, data visualization, management and/or monitoring.

UNICEF Core Values

The consultant also have to follow UNICEF's core values described below.

Diversity and Inclusion

Treats all people with dignity and respect; shows respect and sensitivity towards gender, cultural and religious differences; challenges prejudice, biases and intolerance in the workplace; encourages diversity wherever possible.

Integrity

Maintains high ethical standards; takes clear ethical stands; keeps promises; immediately addresses untrustworthy or dishonest behaviour; resists pressure in decision-making from internal and external sources; does not abuse power or authority.

Commitment

Demonstrates commitment to UNICEF's mission and to the wider UN system; demonstrates the values of UNICEF in daily activities and behaviours; seeks out new challenges, assignments and responsibilities; promotes UNICEF's cause.

HOW TO APPLY:

EVALUATION PROCESS:

Qualified candidates are requested to submit:

1. Cover letter/application.
2. Financial quote for the consultancy which must include: the total consultancy fee (broken down into daily rate in US Dollars and number of consultancy days), travel costs (with details of the economy class ticket price) and administrative fees especially for the Tajikistan-based period (if applicable, broken down into the separate categories of costs like internet, phone, etc.).
3. CV.
4. Examples of previous, relevant work.
5. References.
6. P 11 form (which can be downloaded from our website athttp://www.unicef.org/about/employ/index_53129.html).

Questions can be sent to: dkonradsen@unicef.org with subject line "Technical Specialist, Immunization Supply Chain Data, Tajikistan". Applications must be submitted through the UNICEF electronic application system by 7 September 2016. Applications submitted by email or without a daily rate will not be considered.

You can apply for this position by creating your profile and application at our website:www.unicef.org/about/employ

If you experience any technical issues with submitting your application then kindly contacteRecruitment@unicef.org

Payment will be according to delivery and approval of deliverables. Payments according to the following table:

Deliverables

Payment allocation

· Short report with analysis of data quality and mapping of electronic report submission with reasons for non-reporting

· Overview of available tools and reports and suggestions for updates. Updated existing record and reports and development of new forms based on the field visit findings

40%

· List of available standard operating procedures (SOPs) and proposed new SOPs including reason for development.

· Relevant standard operating procedures

35%

· List of supply chain performance indicators for each supply chain level and a detailed plan for improvements to the content of MS Excel tables to ease and improve analysis and visualization of data

10%

· Short assessment report of the EPI store stock management system with suggestions to appropriate electronic stock management systems.

15%

Successful applicants may be invited to a telephone interview.

General Conditions of Contracts for the Services of Consultants / Individual Contractors

1. Legal Status

The individual engaged by UNICEF under this contract as a consultant or individual contractor (the "Contractor") is engaged in a personal capacity and not as representative of a Government or of any other entity external to the United Nations. The Contractor is neither a "staff member" under the Staff Regulations of the United Nations and UNICEF policies and procedures nor an "official" for the purpose of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, 1946 ("the Convention"). The Contractor may, however, be afforded the status of "Expert on Mission" in the sense of Section 22 of Article VI of the Convention and if the Contractor is required by UNICEF to travel in order to fulfill the requirements of this contract, the Contractor may be issued a United Nations Certificate in accordance with Section 26 of Article VII of the Convention.

1. Obligations

The Contractor shall complete the assignment set out in the Terms of Reference for this contract with due diligence, efficiency and economy, in accordance with generally accepted professional techniques and practices.

The Contractor must respect the impartiality and independence of UNICEF and the United Nations and in connection with this contract shall neither seek nor accept instructions from anyone other than UNICEF. During the term of this contract the Contractor must refrain from any conduct that would adversely reflect on UNICEF or the United Nations and must not engage in any activity that is incompatible with the administrative instructions and policies and procedures of UNICEF. The Contractor must exercise the utmost discretion in all matters relating to this contract.

In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, the Contractor (a) will conduct him- or herself in a manner consistent with the Standards of Conduct in the International Civil Service; and (b) will comply with the administrative instructions and policies and procedures of UNICEF relating to fraud and corruption; information disclosure; use of electronic communication assets; discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and abuse of authority; and the requirements set forth in the Secretary General's Bulletin on Special Measures for Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse.

Unless otherwise authorized by the appropriate official in the office concerned, the Contractor must not communicate at any time to the media or to any institution, person, Government or other entity external to UNICEF any information that has not been made public and which has become known to the Contractor by reason of his or her association with UNICEF or the United Nations. The Contractor may not use such information without the written authorization of UNICEF, and shall under no circumstances use such information for his or her private advantage or that of others. These obligations do not lapse upon termination of this contact.

1. Title rights

UNICEF shall be entitled to all property rights, including but not limited to patents, copyrights and trademarks, with regard to material created by the Contractor which bears a direct relation to, or is made in order to perform, this contract. At the request of UNICEF, the Contractor shall assist in securing such property rights and transferring them to UNICEF in compliance with the requirements of the law governing such rights.

1. Travel

If UNICEF determines that the Contractor needs to travel in order to perform his or her obligations under this contract, that travel shall be specified in the contract and the Contractor's travel costs shall be set out in the contract. In cases where travel costs have not been set in the contract, travel may either be organized by UNICEF or reimbursed upon submission of receipts within ten (10) days of completion of a specific travel on the following basis:

UNICEF will pay for travel in economy class via the most direct and economical route, provided however that in exceptional circumstances, such as for medical reasons, travel in business class may be approved by UNICEF on a case-by-case basis.

UNICEF will pay for out-of-pocket expenses associated with such travel, up to an amount equivalent to the daily subsistence allowance that would be paid to staff members undertaking similar travel for official purposes.

1. Statement of good health

Before commencing work, the Contractor must deliver to UNICEF a certified self-statement of good health and take full responsibility for the accuracy of that statement. In addition, the Contractor must include in this statement of good health (a) confirmation that he or she has been informed regarding inoculations required for him or her to receive, at his or her own cost and from his or her own medical practitioner or other party, for travel to the country or countries to which travel is authorized; and (b) a statement he or she is covered by medical/health insurance and that, if required to travel beyond commuting distance from his or her usual place or residence to UNICEF (other than to duty station(s) with hardship ratings "H" and "A", a list of which has been provided to the Contractor) the Contractor's medical/health insurance covers medical evacuations. The Contractor will be responsible for assuming all costs that may be incurred in relation to the statement of good health.

1. Insurance

The Contractor is fully responsible for arranging, at his or her own expense, such life, health and other forms of insurance covering the term of this contract as he or she considers appropriate taking into account, among other things, the requirements of paragraph 5 above. The Contractor is not eligible to participate in the life or health insurance schemes available to UNICEF and United Nations staff members. The responsibility of UNICEF and the United Nations is limited solely to the payment of compensation under the conditions described in paragraph 7 below.

1. Service incurred death, injury or illness

If the Contractor is travelling with UNICEF's prior approval and at UNICEF's expense in order to perform his or her obligations under this contract, or is performing his or her obligations under this contract in a UNICEF or United Nations office with UNICEF's approval, the Contractor (or his or her dependents as appropriate), shall be entitled to compensation from UNICEF in the event of death, injury or illness attributable to the fact that the Contractor was travelling with UNICEF's prior approval and at UNICEF's expenses in order to perform his or her obligations under this contract, or was performing his or her obligations under this contract in a UNICEF or United Nations office with UNICEF's approval. Such compensation will be paid through a third party insurance provider retained by UNICEF and shall be capped at the amounts set out in the Administrative Instruction on Consultants and Individual Contractors. Under no circumstances will UNICEF be liable for any other or greater payments to the Contractor (or his or her dependents as appropriate).

1. Arbitration

Any dispute arising out of or, in connection with, this contract shall be resolved through amicable negotiation between the parties.

If the parties are not able to reach agreement after attempting amicable negotiation for a period of thirty (30) days after one party has notified the other of such a dispute, either party may submit the matter to arbitration in accordance with the UNCITRAL procedures within fifteen (15) days thereafter. If neither party submits the matter for arbitration within the specified time the dispute will be deemed resolved to the full satisfaction of both parties. Such arbitration shall take place in New York before a single arbitrator agreed to by both parties; provided however that should the parties be unable to agree on a single arbitrator within thirty days of the request for arbitration, the arbitrator shall be designated by the United Nations Legal Counsel. The decision rendered in the arbitration shall constitute final adjudication of the dispute.

1. Penalties for Underperformance

Payment of fees to the Contractor under this contract, including each installment or periodic payment (if any), is subject to the Contractor's full and complete performance of his or her obligations under this contract with regard to such payment to UNICEF's satisfaction, and UNICEF's certification to that effect.

10.Termination of Contract

This contract may be terminated by either party before its specified termination date by giving notice in writing to the other party. The period of notice shall be five (5) business days (in the UNICEF office engaging the Contractor) in the case of contracts for a total period of less than two (2) months and ten (10) business days (in the UNICEF office engaging the Contractor) in the case of contracts for a longer period; provided however that in the event of termination on the grounds of impropriety or other misconduct by the Contractor (including but not limited to breach by the Contractor of relevant UNICEF policies, procedures, and administrative instructions), UNICEF shall be entitled to terminate the contract without notice. If this contract is terminated in accordance with this paragraph, the Contractor shall be paid on a pro rata basis determined by UNICEF for the actual amount of work performed to UNICEF's satisfaction at the time of termination. UNICEF will also pay any outstanding reimbursement claims related to travel by the Contractor. Any additional costs incurred by UNICEF resulting from the termination of the contract by either party may be withheld from any amount otherwise due to the Contractor under this paragraph.

1. Taxation

UNICEF and the United Nations accept no liability for any taxes, duty or other contribution payable by the consultant and individual contractor on payments made under this contract. Neither UNICEF nor the United Nations will issue a statement of earnings to the consultant and individual contractor.