Advocacy Specialist at Ecumenical Pharmaceutical Network (EPN)

Objective

The objective of this assignment is to provide Advocacy Consultancy to Ecumenical Pharmaceutical Network (EPN) at high-level international meetings as well as participate in the development of declarations and policy statements. This is a full-time position for one year to coordinate efforts to raise awareness of and advocate for Covid-19 vaccinations. The successful candidate will have a good knowledge of the health systems landscape and an existing network of contacts from across different stakeholders and key influencers.

Major duties and responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the incumbent will:

1. Planning – Support the implementation of the Covid-19 campaigns strategies in Faith-Based Healthcare providers, Christian Health Associations (CHAs), and also at international level that aim at raising public awareness and influencing policy change.
2. Partnerships – Support the Partnerships with CHAs, Drug Supply Organizations (DSOs), religious partners and other media specialists with outreach to the target groups private sector, to build support for increased awareness of Covid-19 vaccinations and other pandemic responses.
3. Advocacy – Reach out to senior Church leaders through The All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), senior members of the CHAs, DSOs and major policymakers, organize high-level meetings and advocate for priority issues for Covid-19 vaccinations and other pandemic responses. Negotiate and influence directly and via other partners and influencers. Develop and maintain a contact list and history of key individuals, groups and organizations whose support can assist in achieving the overall objective of herd immunity to conquer the Covid-19 pandemic. Maintain relationships and ensure follow up on agreed actions.

Key deliverables:

1. A joint declaration with CHA’s and DSO’s to be presented by EPN (or designated representative) at an appropriate WHO or AU international meeting related to Covid-19 vaccination
2. Organize advocacy meetings for health professionals and decision-makers on vaccination against Covid-19 as part of EPN’s advocacy plans.
3. Support members to disseminate the joint declaration on relevant online media and respective websites.
4. Support CHAs and DSOs leadership improve their advocacy capabilities including in Covid-19 vaccination.
5. Organize international online advocacy workshops with church leaders to educate them on the benefits of the Covid-19 Vaccination.
6. Strengthen relationship between EPN and AACC through facilitation of an online workshop with religious leaders from 15 countries.
7. Support church leaders with advise and advocacy resources to facilitate their sensitization work at congregation and community levels
8. Support the EPN member RCBIF Burundi (Reseau des Confessions Religieuses Pour la Promotion de la Santé et le Bien Etre Intégral de la Famille) to conduct targeted advocacy appointments and meetings with policy makers on Covid-19 vaccination in Burundi and other countries

Timeline/ Deliverables

The assignment is expected to require up to 11 months, effective from 15th January 2022.

Qualifications

A university degree in Health, Political Science, Communication, or other related fields is required. An advanced degree is desirable, or equivalent professional experience.

Knowledge/Expertise/Skills required:

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in policy, advocacy, communication or partnerships is required. Experience developing and implementing advocacy strategies also desirable. Work experience within the Health sector or related non-governmental organization is desirable.

Language Proficiency

Fluency in English (verbal and written) and is required. Competency in French is also desirable

Specialist skills/Training:

1. Proven experience in implementing advocacy strategies
2. Skills in negotiating and influencing, especially in a political environment
3. Good knowledge of the Health sector and an existing network of contacts from across different stakeholders and key influencers.
4. Ability to present ideas and concepts, clearly and concisely, in written and oral form Proven ability to research, analyze, evaluate and synthesize information
5. Strong planning and organizational skills Proven ability to work as part of a team
6. Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and establish harmonious and effective working relationships, both within and outside the organization.

Competencies:

Professionalism, negotiating and influencing, drive for results, and working with people are core competencies required for the assignment.

Remuneration

The consultant will be contracted at a gross monthly fee (All taxes inclusive) of USD 2,350.