Nutrition Information System Strengthening Consultant
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full 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 Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) in Fiji to strengthen the consistency, quality, linkage, and utilization of priority nutrition information. This will be achieved by working through existing government structures and information systems, ensuring that data collected from community to national levels is reliable and actionable. The consultancy aims to improve the tracking of referrals, continuity of care, and reporting efficiency, thereby reducing staff workload and enhancing data quality. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that nutrition information is not only collected but also effectively used to improve health outcomes for children and communities.
Responsibilities
The consultant will conduct a rapid and practical assessment of the current nutrition information system within MHMS. This involves reviewing key nutrition policies, guidelines, registers, reporting tools, and relevant health information system documents. The consultant will consult with a sample of national, divisional, facility, and community stakeholders to map the current processes of recording, reporting, linking, and using priority nutrition information. Key gaps affecting data quality, referral completion, continuity of care, reporting burden, and data utilization will be identified. A crucial part of the role will be to agree with MHMS on a concise minimum nutrition dataset, standard definitions, and clear responsibilities for data management. The consultant will develop a prioritized improvement plan, outlining immediate actions and medium-term strategies. Additionally, the consultant will prepare or refine essential tools such as reporting templates, referral forms, data quality checks, and standard operating procedures. Finally, the consultant will facilitate validation of deliverables, incorporate feedback, orient MHMS personnel, and provide all final products in an editable format, ensuring sustainability and integration within existing systems.
Work Experience
At least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in nutrition, with a focus on health information systems, data management, and public health program support.
Skills
Nutrition Information Systems, Public Health, Data Analysis, Health Informatics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Stakeholder Consultation, Report Writing, Tool Development, Project Management, Capacity Building, Problem-Solving, Communication