Enhancing Vaccine Supply Logistics and Cold Chain Management through SOP Review and Development (for Internationals only, remote with travel)

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children’s lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of children's rights not just as a job, but as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to support the National Expanded Programme on Immunization (NEPI), Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), UNICEF, and partners in Afghanistan to develop, validate, and operationalize a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Terms of Reference (ToRs), and related guidelines for the immunization supply chain (iSC). These documents must be aligned with national policy and global Expanded Vaccine Management (EVM) standards. A key objective is to strengthen the capacity of the MoPH and its partners to routinely apply and update these critical SOPs, ensuring the efficient and safe delivery of vaccines. This role involves extensive collaboration with national and international stakeholders to enhance vaccine supply logistics and cold chain management.

Responsibilities

Conduct a thorough desk review of national policies, guidelines, tools, and assessments relevant to the immunization supply chain (iSC), including EVM reports, cIP recommendations, cold chain inventory, and distribution plans. Map existing immunization supply chain processes across different levels and provinces to identify gaps and variations in practice. Coordinate closely with NEPI/MoPH, UNICEF, WHO, and other key stakeholders to design practical and effective SOPs. Ensure that the developed SOPs are aligned with WHO/UNICEF guidance, global EVM guidelines, and national regulations, with a specific focus on vaccine safety, temperature monitoring, and data reporting standards. Facilitate validation sessions and capacity-building workshops for MoPH staff and partners. Finalize the SOPs in English, Dari, and Pashto. Provide expertise in health system and supply chain strengthening, particularly in vaccine management, to support the development and implementation of robust procedures. Contribute to strengthening the capacity of local health authorities and partners in managing and updating supply chain protocols.

Work Experience

At least 8 years of experience in Health System and Supply Chain Strengthening, with a specific focus on vaccine management.

Skills

SOP development, Guideline writing, System strengthening, Vaccine management, Supply chain management, Health system strengthening, Capacity building, Stakeholder coordination, Report writing, Facilitation skills, Cold chain management, Project management

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