National Consultant (NCD Risk Factors Reduction)
Organizational Context
Myanmar faces a significant and increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), exacerbated by poor dietary practices and low physical activity. Recent data highlight a rise in NCD risk factors, particularly among the working-age population, with unhealthy food environments contributing substantially to conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to address the growing NCD burden in Myanmar by supporting the review and reform of policies and regulations related to dietary risk factors. The role will involve analyzing existing policies on salt, sugar, trans-fat, food labelling, SSB taxation, and unhealthy food marketing. The objective is to identify gaps, develop advocacy materials, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and contribute to creating a healthier food environment and reducing NCDs through evidence-based policy changes.
Responsibilities
The National Consultant will conduct a comprehensive review of national laws, policies, and guidelines concerning dietary risk factors, identifying strengths and gaps. This includes developing a methodology and assessment tools for the review, and analyzing relevant WHO recommendations and international best practices. The consultant will create a tailored advocacy package, including policy briefs and factsheets, and facilitate multisectoral stakeholder workshops to discuss findings and propose policy options. A key deliverable is the development of a roadmap or action plan for policy and regulatory reform to improve NCD prevention and promote healthier food environments in Myanmar.
Work Experience
Essential: 5 to 10 years of relevant professional experience in public health, nutrition, NCD prevention, health policy, or policy/regulatory analysis. Desirable: Experience in policy/regulation review for dietary risk factors, policy gap analysis, advocacy material development, and facilitating multisectoral consultations. Experience with WHO or similar organizations is a plus.
Skills
Good understanding of NCD prevention, nutrition, and dietary risk factors. Knowledge of WHO recommendations and international best practices. Strong skills in policy analysis, report writing, and advocacy. Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement abilities. Strong analytical, organizational, and coordination skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Fluency in English and Myanmar languages.