Consultant to Coordinate the Development of a Nutrient Profile Model for Lao PDR
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, protecting their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed to our mission, offering diverse professional and personal development opportunities in a passionate and inclusive culture. Join us to make a difference for children worldwide.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to provide high-level lead, facilitation, and coordination support to the Ministry of Health in Lao PDR for the design, development, validation, and approval of a Nutrient Profile Model (NPM). The NPM is a critical scientific and regulatory tool to classify foods and beverages based on nutritional composition, supporting the enforcement of school food regulations and broader nutrition policies. The consultant will ensure the NPM is scientifically sound, feasible, context-adapted, and aligned with national policies, contributing to the National Nutrition Strategy and Plan of Action. This role involves working with a Technical Working Group and various national and international partners to address the triple burden of malnutrition in Lao PDR.
Responsibilities
Lead and coordinate the development of a context-appropriate, evidence-based Nutrient Profile Model (NPM) for Lao PDR, aligning with global and regional guidance and national food environment characteristics. Facilitate the Technical Working Group (TWG) process, ensuring a structured approach to defining scope, adapting suitable WHO NPMs, identifying food categories, setting nutrient thresholds, and validating the model. Provide high-level scientific and technical guidance to the Ministry of Health, Lao PDR, as the lead agency. Ensure the NPM is scientifically sound, feasible for implementation, and adapted to the Lao context. Support the validation of the NPM with diverse stakeholders, including government departments, academic institutions, and international organizations. Assist in the process of gaining approval and facilitating the application of the NPM for various policy areas, such as restricting unhealthy food and beverage availability, guiding procurement and school menus, regulating marketing, establishing front-of-pack labels, setting food standards, and informing fiscal policies. Collaborate effectively with national partners (e.g., National University of Laos, Lao Tropical Public Health Institute) and international partners (e.g., WHO, WFP, FAO) involved in the NPM development process. Ensure alignment of the NPM with the National Nutrition Strategy 2026-2035 and the National Plan of Action on Nutrition 2026-2030.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, including work with diverse stakeholders (government and development partners) in the social sector. Proven experience in contributing to the development of national guidelines and regulations, particularly in the field of nutrition.
Skills
Nutrition Policy and Science expertise, School Nutrition knowledge, Food Profiles understanding, Multistakeholder coordination, Programme management, Analytical skills, Writing skills, Communication skills, Independent work ability, Familiarity with Lao PDR government processes, Understanding of Lao PDR context, Adaptability to ASEAN context