National Sr. Immunization Supply Chain Consultants

Scope of Work:

The Senior immunization supply chain consultants will assist the MoH or the assigned structures under the ministry in managing the immunization supply chain. This includes planning, forecasting, procurement, storage, distribution, monitoring, and reporting. The consultants will also help build capacity at the regional and local levels to manage vaccine supply and cold chain systems effectively.

Strategic and Technical Advisory

• Provide technical guidance and advisory support on logistics and supply chain components for strategic documents, applications, and guidelines within the EPI program, including contributions to the development of the National Immunization Strategy (NIS).
• Support MoH in vaccine co-financing discussions with the responsible units and stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with UNICEF Supply Division and national logistics working groups on vaccine and supply chain matters.

Forecasting, Procurement, and Distribution

• Provide technical assistance for vaccine forecasting, procurement, shipment, clearance, and distribution.
• Conduct VRF (Vaccine Request Form) analysis and provide feedback to EPSS hubs, RHBs and health facilities.
• Support the application process for new vaccine introductions and planned SIAs.

Digital Systems and Data Visibility

• Provide TA on the use of digital tools on immunization supply chain such as mBrana, Dagu, VIVA, and other systems for stock monitoring and visualization.
• Advocate for supply chain digitalization and support the eLMIS.
• Ensure timely submission of e-VAR (Vaccine Arrival Report) within 72 hours for at least 85% of shipments.

Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) Management

• Support availability, maintenance, and rehabilitation of CCE at all levels of the supply chain.
• Develop and implement CCE improvement plans, including decommissioning and eco-friendly disposal of obsolete equipment.
• Support on CCE post-installation inspections, evaluation and studies
• Support any new initiatives, such as the GAVI-HFSE learning agenda

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Support on the national (full and periodic) EVM 2.0 assessments and lead the development and implementation of the Continuous Improvement Plan (cIP).
• Actively monitor and report supply chain performance indicators (DISC or IA2030-related) and ensure data use by EPSS and MoH.
• Prepare regular reports on supply chain performance using global standards.
• Provide technical support on temperature monitoring and wastage monitoring studies.

Deliverables/Outputs:

• Strategic Advisory: Submission of a technical report on the provision of clear, actionable inputs for the logistics and supply chain components of EPI strategic documents, guidelines, and the National Immunization Strategy (NIS)
• Forecasting & Procurement – Submission of accurate vaccine forecasting and procurement plans, ensuring timely clearance, shipment, and distribution.
• Submission of Financial Support report following facilitation of vaccine co-financing processes with the Ministry of Finance and provide documented recommendations.
• Submission of Cold Chain Optimization report afterensuring availability and maintenance of CCE at hubs and health facilities; implement temperature monitoring and wastage reduction measures.
• Submission of the monthly digital visibility and Program support report.
• Digital Visibility and Program Support – Strengthen stock monitoring through mBrana, Dagu, VIVA, and eLMIS; ensure timely printing and distribution of immunization tools and integration of immunization services with PHC strategies.
• Performance Monitoring: Submission of a report on IA2030 and DISC indicators quarterly after conducting the EVM 2.0 assessments and implementing Continuous Improvement Plans
• Capacity Building – Submission of a capacity building report at least two training sessions and on-the-job coaching for EPSS and MoH staff on vaccine logistics and cold chain management.
•  Last-Mile Delivery – submission of document progress and lessons learned following provision of support to EPSS hubs and woredas in expanding direct delivery to health centers and outreach sites.
• Waste Management – Submission of vaccine wastage monitoring plan and eco-friendly disposal strategy for outdated CCE.
• Final Deliverable – Submission of a comprehensive consultancy report reviewed and approved by the section, highlighting key achievements, lessons learned, and actionable recommendations.

Minimum requirements:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Public Health, Logistics and Supply Chain Management or related fields

Work Experience: At least Five [5) years of relevant work experience in the immunization supply chain, storage, logistics, and inventory control of supplies, including in emergencies, preferably in the health sector.

• Expertise in health logistics, supply planning, forecasting and customs clearance.
• Strong knowledge of the Ethiopian health sector and supply chains.
• Experience in developing national CCE inventories and rehabilitation plans.

Skills:

• Skilled in WHO PQS-listed equipment and Gavi CCEOP processes.
• Proficient in temperature monitoring, cold room mapping and RTM installation.
• Familiar with strategies to reach zero-dose children.
• Proven track record in engaging with the Ministry of Health and its agencies like EPSS.
• Experienced in training, technical assistance and SOP/guideline/training guide development.
• Strong skills in data quality, reporting and analytics.
• Excellent analytical, communication and presentation abilities.
• Collaborative in diverse team and partner environments.
• Proficient in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of other official UN languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset.

Desirables:

• Relevant experience at the country level, particularly in development, fragile settings and humanitarian contexts.

For every Child, you demonstrate...

UNICEF’s Core Values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust and Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS) underpin everything we do and how we do it. Get acquainted with Our Values Charter: UNICEF Values

The UNICEF competencies required for this post are…

• Builds and maintains partnerships
• Demonstrates self-awareness and ethical awareness
• Drive to achieve results for impact
• Innovates and embraces change
• Manages ambiguity and complexity
• Thinks and acts strategically
• Works collaboratively with others

Skills Required:

• Health / Medical
• Hr / Public / Admin
• Logistics / Supply / Chain
• Pharmaceutical