National Consultancy for Vaccine, Logistics and Cold Chain Management, Harare

job Description

National Consultancy for Vaccine, Logistics and Cold Chain Management , Harare, Zimbabwe, Open to Zimbabwe Nationals Only
Job no: 582381
Position type: Consultant
Location: Zimbabwe
Division/Equivalent: Nairobi Regn'l(ESARO)
School/Unit: Zimbabwe
Department/Office: Harare, Zimbabwe
Categories: Health

How can you make a difference?
UNICEF Zimbabwe is inviting applications for a national individual consultant to for supporting the vaccination programme in the planning, use, stock management, capacity building, immunization supply chain management, disposal (if necessary) and tracking of all vaccines and cold chain equipment used in Routine Immunization (RI) and Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA).

BACKGROUND
The Vaccine, Logistics and Cold Chain Management Consultant is responsible for supportig the vaccination programme in the planning, use, stock management, capacity building, immunization supply chain management, disposal (if necessary) and tracking of all vaccines and cold chain equipment used in Routine Immunization (RI) and Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA). The consultant will provide support to the national immunization programme at MoHCC headquarters and will also be deployed to the field to ensure quality at the sub-national level. The consultant will report to the EPI Manager MOHCC and the Health Specialist Immunization and Public Health Emergencies (UNICEF).

Duties and Responsibilities

Objectives of the assignment;
-To provide technical support for strengthening vaccine logistics and cold chain systems at all levels in Zimbabwe.
-To support the MoHCC/EPI in implementing best practices in vaccine forecasting, procurement, storage, transportation, and temperature monitoring.
-To enhance national and sub-national capacity for cold chain management through training and system development.

SCOPE OF WORK:
The consultant will perform the following tasks in close collaboration with MoHCC and partners:
3.1. Assessment and Strategic Support
Assess the current EPI supply chain and cold chain infrastructure, including cold room capacity at national and provincial levels.
Support review and implementation of Zimbabwe’s Cold Chain Expansion Plan (as per CCEOP and Gavi guidance).
Identify gaps in equipment functionality, storage capacity, and maintenance systems.

3.2. Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) Optimization
Support the rollout and maintenance planning of new cold chain equipment procured through CCEOP, Gavi, and other mechanisms.
Provide technical oversight for installation, commissioning, and training of technicians and health facility staff.
Assist in setting up preventive maintenance schedules and service contracts with local providers.

3.3. Vaccine Logistics Management
Provide guidance on the effective implementation of vaccine forecasting, quantification, and stock management tools.
Strengthen last-mile delivery systems, including reverse logistics and tracking of vaccine returns and wastage.
Support the use and analysis of stock data using Zimbabwe’s electronic LMIS (eLMIS).

3.4. Temperature Monitoring and Remote Sensing
Facilitate the integration and effective use of remote temperature monitoring devices (RTMDs) in national and sub-national stores.
Review data from temperature loggers and ensure corrective actions for temperature excursions are documented and implemented.
Promote best practices in cold chain monitoring using WHO-recommended tools such as vaccine vial monitors (VVMs) and Fridge Tags.

3.5. Capacity Building and Support Supervision
Develop training materials and job aids tailored for Zimbabwean cold chain and logistics personnel.
Conduct training-of-trainers (ToTs) and on-the-job mentorship at national, provincial, and district levels.
Participate in and support supportive supervision visits with MoHCC and partners.
The consultant will be based in Harare with frequent travel to provinces and districts as required under the Gavi Full Portfolio Funding (FPP) implementation plan.

Qualifications and Experience

Education:
Advanced university degree from a recognized academic institution in one or more of the following areas is preferred: Pharmacy, Supply Chain Management, or related to supply and logistics operations in UNICEF program areas. 3 years working experience. First university pharmacy degree combined with relevant professional work experience and understanding of relevant functions may be considered in lieu of advanced university degree combined with at least five years of experience in immunization and supply chain.

Experience:
-Work experience in managing large-scale projects, working with governments, working in resource-limited settings, monitoring and evaluating supply chains, and risk management, mitigation will be an asset.
-Chain technologies and understanding of the principles of vaccine management, knowledge and experience with data collection, data management analysis and reporting are essential.
Knowledge of procurement processes and good distribution practice will be beneficial.

Language requirements:
-Written and spoken fluency in English required and knowledge of main local languages (Shona and Ndebele) is an added advantage.