International Consultant: Quality Enhancement of Infection Prevention and Control, Logistics and Hygiene Standards for MEDEVAC Operations in Ukraine
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) in Ukraine is supporting the largest international patient evacuation (MEDEVAC) operation to date. This consultancy, Phase 2, builds on initial work to embed and scale up Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and logistics standards within these operations, focusing on quality improvement and capacity transfer to Ukrainian counterparts.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to lead Phase 2 of WHO's technical support for MEDEVAC operations in Ukraine, focusing on the implementation and enhancement of IPC, WASH, and logistics standards. The role involves embedding previously developed systems into routine operations, achieving measurable improvements in service quality, and facilitating the transfer of ownership to Ukrainian counterparts. Key activities include monitoring, auditing, quality improvement initiatives, training, mentorship, and ensuring EMT verification readiness. The consultant will also contribute to knowledge management and the potential scale-up of successful approaches to other relevant entities, ensuring sustainability and harmonization across operations.
Responsibilities
The consultant will be responsible for implementing and scaling up IPC, WASH, and logistics standards within MEDEVAC operations, ensuring consistency with WHO practices and embedding SOPs into routine workflows. This includes aligning documentation and procedures along the MEDEVAC chain and providing technical input to other EMS systems for harmonization. A core responsibility is establishing and executing structured monitoring and audit cycles for IPC, producing reports with trend analysis and improvement recommendations, and conducting reassessments to demonstrate progress. The role also involves delivering training and mentorship to staff using a train-the-trainer approach, developing simulation-based training, and packaging materials for reuse. Furthermore, the consultant will prepare EMT verification documentation, conduct gap analyses, establish formal IPC governance, and develop a sustainability and handover package. Reporting and knowledge management, including monthly progress reports and a consolidated end-of-consultancy report, are also key duties.
Work Experience
Essential: 15 years of progressive experience in international emergency response, including lead technical roles in IPC, WASH, or emergency logistics. At least 10 years supporting Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) certification. Demonstrated experience designing and leading national/multi-country IPC and hygiene frameworks in emergency health contexts. Proven record of developing technical standards, guidance, and tools. Strong technical knowledge of WHO standards for IPC, hygiene, and logistics in emergencies. Experience developing SOPs, guidance, and training materials. Familiarity with MEDEVAC operations and current familiarity with MEDEVAC activities from Ukraine. Strong partner engagement skills and experience in developing/delivering training. Desirable: Experience with UN agencies, EU institutions, humanitarian organizations, or collaborating with national authorities. Flexibility in volatile environments. Strong planning, organizing, and communication skills. Computer literacy and presentation skills.
Skills
Strong technical knowledge of WHO standards and guidance for IPC, hygiene, WASH, and logistics in emergency health. Ability to apply WHO IPC Core Components, assessment tools, and EMT Minimum Standards. Strong analytical skills for audit, trend analysis, and quality improvement. Excellent planning, organization, and communication skills (written and verbal), including reporting and facilitation. Desirable: Excellent presentation techniques and computer literacy. Ability to package technical materials for reuse and adaptation.