Consultant - Support Global and Country Efforts to track public financing for nutrition
Home Based - May require travel
- Organization: UNOPS - United Nations Office for Project Services
- Location: Home Based - May require travel
- Grade: Junior level - IICA-1, International Individual Contractors Agreement
-
Occupational Groups:
- Economics
- Banking and Finance
- Nutrition
- Programme Management
- Closing Date: Closed
Background Information - Job-specific
The Scaling up Nutrition (SUN) Movement is a global effort to eliminate malnutrition, based on the principle that everyone has a right to food and good nutrition. The Movement’s vision is to, by 2030, ensure a world free from malnutrition in all its forms. Led by governments and supported by organizations and individuals – collective action ensures every child, adolescent, mother, and family can realize their right to food and nutrition, reach their full potential and shape sustainable and prosperous societies. The ‘SUN approach’ encourages all supporters of the Movement to leave ‘egos and logos’ behind, to align efforts and work together to support SUN countries’ national plans to scale up nutrition, during the first 1,000 days – from a mother’s pregnancy to her child’s second birthday.
The need to better track nutrition-specific and sensitive investments was recognized as a priority at the inception of the SUN Movement and continues to be central to ensuring that investments in nutrition are not just well accounted for but also directed to the best effect. Tracking budgets is essential for policymakers, as well as for citizens and donors. Governments need reliable budget data to prioritize and plan and to make decisions on finance allocation, as well as to monitor and evaluate policy implementation (Picanyol 2014). Citizens want to hold governments to account for monies paid through their taxes, for which they need transparency in how public investments are made. Similarly, donors need to account to their own taxpayers and demonstrate that funds are being used effectively.
The process to develop fit-for-purpose guidance to track financial resources on nutrition started in mid-2013 with a literature review to compile mechanisms available at the international level and at the country-level. Existing efforts and challenges were reviewed as well as remedies available. While recognizing that the best mechanism for each country would depend on their existing Public Financial Management (PFM) systems, the conclusion of the review pointed to a 3-Step Approach as the most practical way for countries to track trends on budget allocations. This approach is designed for countries to look at changes in the budget allocations (and actual expenditures where possible) over time. In essence, it does not offer direct comparability of data across countries.
The 3-Step Approach was first tested with Costa Rica, and the findings were successfully presented at the 2014 SUN Movement Global Gathering in November. For ensuring transparency and replicability, all steps taken were documented in detail, and specific data sources were provided. Building from this initial work in January 2015, the SUN Movement Secretariat issued a “call for expressions of interest” inviting countries in the SUN Movement to accelerate their efforts at reporting on nutrition-relevant budget allocations. The work culminated with four regional budget analysis workshops in April 2015, supported by UNICEF on behalf of the UN Network for the SUN Movement. The workshops served to i) recognize the work done during the data gathering phase and to further advance on the 3-Step Approach and ii) a powerful tool to build consensus through a collaborative effort and to introduce the exercise to Parliamentarians and representatives from the media and civil society.
The results of these budget analysis exercises are available on the SUN Movements Website, and the nutrition investment database. Namely, 51 countries have tracked public financial allocations and expenditures for nutrition. A feat representing one of the clear pathways of country efforts in the SUN Movement aligns with the Nutrition UN Decade of Action. Namely, through ensuring transparent and accountable government-led ownership of the Nutrition agenda. These country-led financial tracking experts also represent one of the successes in the second phase of the SUN Movement. The turbulent year of 2020 marked the last year of the SUN Movement’s Strategy and Roadmap (2016-2020). Following wide consultation across the Scaling up Nutrition (SUN) Movement, a new Strategy (2021-2025) was agreed by the SUN Movement Lead Group at their annual meeting, held 7 December 2020.
The Strategy emphasizes the impact on nutrition at the country level and country leadership in addressing all forms of malnutrition. This includes supporting nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive actions through strengthened food, health and social protection systems, and with a focus on youth, gender equality and socio-economic equity. Country leadership and country priorities are placed the centre of the Movement’s work, and financial tracking efforts by governments represent the proof of ownership of the nutrition agenda in their respective countries.
Presently, the SUN Movement Secretariat (SMS) is engaged in building partnerships to support countries in implementing the Seventh Round of the Budget Analysis exercise in 2021. This includes continued support to countries who request technical assistance to complete financial tracking exercises, and to those that signaled that their in-country teams can complete the exercises without focused assistance. The main objective of this assignment is to support the SUN Movement Secretariat and Networks to support SUN countries on the full-process support for financial tracking exercises: including development, implementation, data analysis, and feeding the results into the global support system. The overall purpose of the support is to support countries directly to improve their specific data and monitoring/tracking needs for nutrition financing.
The need to better track nutrition-specific and sensitive investments was recognized as a priority at the inception of the SUN Movement and continues to be central to ensuring that investments in nutrition are not just well accounted for but also directed to the best effect. Tracking budgets is essential for policymakers, as well as for citizens and donors. Governments need reliable budget data to prioritize and plan and to make decisions on finance allocation, as well as to monitor and evaluate policy implementation (Picanyol 2014). Citizens want to hold governments to account for monies paid through their taxes, for which they need transparency in how public investments are made. Similarly, donors need to account to their own taxpayers and demonstrate that funds are being used effectively.
The process to develop fit-for-purpose guidance to track financial resources on nutrition started in mid-2013 with a literature review to compile mechanisms available at the international level and at the country-level. Existing efforts and challenges were reviewed as well as remedies available. While recognizing that the best mechanism for each country would depend on their existing Public Financial Management (PFM) systems, the conclusion of the review pointed to a 3-Step Approach as the most practical way for countries to track trends on budget allocations. This approach is designed for countries to look at changes in the budget allocations (and actual expenditures where possible) over time. In essence, it does not offer direct comparability of data across countries.
The 3-Step Approach was first tested with Costa Rica, and the findings were successfully presented at the 2014 SUN Movement Global Gathering in November. For ensuring transparency and replicability, all steps taken were documented in detail, and specific data sources were provided. Building from this initial work in January 2015, the SUN Movement Secretariat issued a “call for expressions of interest” inviting countries in the SUN Movement to accelerate their efforts at reporting on nutrition-relevant budget allocations. The work culminated with four regional budget analysis workshops in April 2015, supported by UNICEF on behalf of the UN Network for the SUN Movement. The workshops served to i) recognize the work done during the data gathering phase and to further advance on the 3-Step Approach and ii) a powerful tool to build consensus through a collaborative effort and to introduce the exercise to Parliamentarians and representatives from the media and civil society.
The results of these budget analysis exercises are available on the SUN Movements Website, and the nutrition investment database. Namely, 51 countries have tracked public financial allocations and expenditures for nutrition. A feat representing one of the clear pathways of country efforts in the SUN Movement aligns with the Nutrition UN Decade of Action. Namely, through ensuring transparent and accountable government-led ownership of the Nutrition agenda. These country-led financial tracking experts also represent one of the successes in the second phase of the SUN Movement. The turbulent year of 2020 marked the last year of the SUN Movement’s Strategy and Roadmap (2016-2020). Following wide consultation across the Scaling up Nutrition (SUN) Movement, a new Strategy (2021-2025) was agreed by the SUN Movement Lead Group at their annual meeting, held 7 December 2020.
The Strategy emphasizes the impact on nutrition at the country level and country leadership in addressing all forms of malnutrition. This includes supporting nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive actions through strengthened food, health and social protection systems, and with a focus on youth, gender equality and socio-economic equity. Country leadership and country priorities are placed the centre of the Movement’s work, and financial tracking efforts by governments represent the proof of ownership of the nutrition agenda in their respective countries.
Presently, the SUN Movement Secretariat (SMS) is engaged in building partnerships to support countries in implementing the Seventh Round of the Budget Analysis exercise in 2021. This includes continued support to countries who request technical assistance to complete financial tracking exercises, and to those that signaled that their in-country teams can complete the exercises without focused assistance. The main objective of this assignment is to support the SUN Movement Secretariat and Networks to support SUN countries on the full-process support for financial tracking exercises: including development, implementation, data analysis, and feeding the results into the global support system. The overall purpose of the support is to support countries directly to improve their specific data and monitoring/tracking needs for nutrition financing.
Functional Responsibilities
Purpose and Scope of Assignment
The main objective under this consultancy is to:
● Advise and provide technical support to the SUN Movement Secretariat and Networks (Global Support System) to respond to SUN countries requests for technical assistance and analyze the financing for nutrition data sent by country teams.
● Manage the data management requests flow from SUN Movement Partners (such as the Global Nutrition Report and UNICEF) and update the MEAL system by updating countries with population estimates, and updating the six indicators from the financial tracking workstream which feed into the SUN MEAL system.
● Develop analysis and provide technical advice and support on different aspects of financial tracking and nutrition financing as required.
Monitoring and Progress Controls
Deliverables
1. Nutrition Investment Snapshots:
● Under the guidance of the Senior Nutrition and Strategy Adviser, ensure completion and lead the analysis and visualisation of the data sent from SUN country budget analysis exercises, and other methods used by partners in the SUN movement.
2. Online Dataset:
● Compile and interpret the country sent data into an underlying database. Package the data in a format usable by the service providers to upload the data into the SUN Movement nutrition investment database.
3. Sector Specific Analyses for SUN countries:
● Provide direct support to SUN countries who submit data to the SMS to receive a detailed analysis of nutrition related spending focused on each sector that is identified in the budget analysis exercise.
● Provide technical support in analyzing the country-sent data for collating and writing reports in the standardized framework.
● Provide technical input and guide the SUN Movement Secretariat staff to review and interpret findings before validation.
4. Support to SUN Movement Partners (such as the Global Nutrition Report, UNICEF, FAO and others)
● Under the guidance of the Senior Nutrition and Strategy Adviser, manage the the SUN Movement Secretariat in responding to technical requests on financial tracking exercises undertaken by SUN countries. This may include, but not limited to, data gathering, analysis, visualization, and contribution to annual reports, such as the Global Nutrition Report, on domestic resourcing. This task may also include contribution to webinars and knowledge management events organized by SUN partners.
5. SUN Progress Report
● Work with the SMS communications team in gathering case studies and analyse content relating to the SUN budget analysis exercise.
A clear workplan will be developed at the beginning of the assignment to allocate days for each expected activity / deliverable.
The main objective under this consultancy is to:
● Advise and provide technical support to the SUN Movement Secretariat and Networks (Global Support System) to respond to SUN countries requests for technical assistance and analyze the financing for nutrition data sent by country teams.
● Manage the data management requests flow from SUN Movement Partners (such as the Global Nutrition Report and UNICEF) and update the MEAL system by updating countries with population estimates, and updating the six indicators from the financial tracking workstream which feed into the SUN MEAL system.
● Develop analysis and provide technical advice and support on different aspects of financial tracking and nutrition financing as required.
Monitoring and Progress Controls
Deliverables
1. Nutrition Investment Snapshots:
● Under the guidance of the Senior Nutrition and Strategy Adviser, ensure completion and lead the analysis and visualisation of the data sent from SUN country budget analysis exercises, and other methods used by partners in the SUN movement.
2. Online Dataset:
● Compile and interpret the country sent data into an underlying database. Package the data in a format usable by the service providers to upload the data into the SUN Movement nutrition investment database.
3. Sector Specific Analyses for SUN countries:
● Provide direct support to SUN countries who submit data to the SMS to receive a detailed analysis of nutrition related spending focused on each sector that is identified in the budget analysis exercise.
● Provide technical support in analyzing the country-sent data for collating and writing reports in the standardized framework.
● Provide technical input and guide the SUN Movement Secretariat staff to review and interpret findings before validation.
4. Support to SUN Movement Partners (such as the Global Nutrition Report, UNICEF, FAO and others)
● Under the guidance of the Senior Nutrition and Strategy Adviser, manage the the SUN Movement Secretariat in responding to technical requests on financial tracking exercises undertaken by SUN countries. This may include, but not limited to, data gathering, analysis, visualization, and contribution to annual reports, such as the Global Nutrition Report, on domestic resourcing. This task may also include contribution to webinars and knowledge management events organized by SUN partners.
5. SUN Progress Report
● Work with the SMS communications team in gathering case studies and analyse content relating to the SUN budget analysis exercise.
A clear workplan will be developed at the beginning of the assignment to allocate days for each expected activity / deliverable.
Education
A master's degree is required, preferably in organizational learning, international development, international affairs and/or a related discipline.
A first level university degree (bachelor's) in areas mentioned above may also be accepted in lieu of the master's degree, with an additional two years of relevant work experience.
A first level university degree (bachelor's) in areas mentioned above may also be accepted in lieu of the master's degree, with an additional two years of relevant work experience.
Experience
Minimum 3 years (or more based on academic credentials) of progressively professional experience in working with international organizations, global partnerships, movements or foundations in a collaborative process to review and design public financial tracking frameworks for nutrition is required.
● Experience assisting supporting countries in implementing and or analyzing the results of financial tracking exercises for nutrition, including quality assurance is required.
● Understanding of the operating environments and capacities of international global partnerships/ movements in terms of data collection and analysis is required;
● Experience related to nutrition, health, food systems and multi-sectoral action and programming is desirable.
● Proven ability to significantly contribute to the framing of new concepts using both qualitative and quantitative analytical competencies including ability to draw from theory as well as practice-based evidence.
● Demonstrated ability to collaborate across one or more dispersed and diverse teams is desirable.
● Demonstrated ability to speak and write clearly and effectively by tailoring language, tone, style, and format to match the audience is required.
● Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Adobe Acrobat Reader is required.
● Experience assisting supporting countries in implementing and or analyzing the results of financial tracking exercises for nutrition, including quality assurance is required.
● Understanding of the operating environments and capacities of international global partnerships/ movements in terms of data collection and analysis is required;
● Experience related to nutrition, health, food systems and multi-sectoral action and programming is desirable.
● Proven ability to significantly contribute to the framing of new concepts using both qualitative and quantitative analytical competencies including ability to draw from theory as well as practice-based evidence.
● Demonstrated ability to collaborate across one or more dispersed and diverse teams is desirable.
● Demonstrated ability to speak and write clearly and effectively by tailoring language, tone, style, and format to match the audience is required.
● Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Adobe Acrobat Reader is required.
Languages
Fluency in both written and spoken English is required.
Knowledge of another UN language (preferably French or Spanish) is highly desired.
Knowledge of another UN language (preferably French or Spanish) is highly desired.
Competencies
| Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion. |
| Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. |
| Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). |
| Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. |
| Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. |
| Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. |
| Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground. |
Contract type, level and duration
[Instructions: Please delete this paragraph and insert relevant information below:
- Contract type: Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA)
- Contract level: Either International ICA1 or Local ICA9 depending on the home-base duty station.
- Contract duration: Retainer ICA up to 31 December 2021
https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx
Additional Considerations
- Please note that the closing date is midnight Copenhagen time
- Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
- Only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified.
- Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
- UNOPS seeks to reasonably accommodate candidates with special needs, upon request.
- Work life harmonization - UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands. We have a progressive policy on work-life harmonization and offer several flexible working options. This policy applies to UNOPS personnel on all contract types
- For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (around 4 hours) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS.
- The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.
It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential recruits/interns. Recruitment/internship in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.
Background Information - UNOPS
UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve sustainable development.
UNOPS areas of expertise cover infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management and human resources.
Working with us
UNOPS offers short- and long-term work opportunities in diverse and challenging environments across the globe. We are looking for creative, results-focused professionals with skills in a range of disciplines.
Diversity
With over 4,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners’ needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.
Work life harmonization
UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands.
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