Mental Health Policy, Accountability and Governance consultant

Purpose of Assignment:

The MHLT Policy, Accountability and Governance Consultant, supervised by the MHPSS Evidence and Systems Strengthening specialist in the Mental Health Unit, COE Global Health, will support the set-up of the child and adolescent mental health mechanism, funded by the Wellcome Trust, and provide ongoing support on global policy, governance and other tasks.

Scope of Work:

Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) is an institutional priority for the UN, and for UNICEF. The UNICEF Strategic Plan 2022-2025 identifies MHPSS as a strategic priority across global areas, building upon existing programming through child protection, education and health. UNICEF’s Global multisectoral operational framework provides UNICEF staff and partners with a common approach and terminology across thematic areas, sectors, and settings on MHPSS. This consultancy will support global mental health advocacy deliverables including designing, implementing and refining an accountability mechanism (jointly led with WHO) which will launch in 2026.   

This consultancy role is essential to ensure implementation of critical deliverables, including launch and ongoing maintenance of the web platform, country mapping and design of country policy workshops, day-to-day coordination with WHO, development of annual report, content and case studies, as well as project management and grant reporting duties. This consultancy is fully remote. Mission travel to select countries may be requested, as relevant to support meetings and summits/capacity development/training.

Minimum requirements: (Qualifications/Experience/ Knowledge/Expertise/Skills)

• Education: Bachelors in the fields of: Public health/global mental health, international development, social sciences, policy, or related field with strong experience in applying legislative, policy, and advocacy work and public mental health systems, services, and financing, in mental health. (Please also refer to the work experience requirements. Experience)
• Work Experience A minimum of 7 years’ professional experience (5 years if with Master's degree) in related MHPSS or development field, demonstrating experience in programming, legislation, policy, financing and advocacy at national and international levels. Experience in LMICs is an asset.
• Master’s degree in related field with strong experience in applying legislative, policy, and advocacy work and public mental health systems, services, and financing, in mental health/ OR bachelor’s degree + additional 2 years' work experience.
• Knowledge of global frameworks and policies including MHPSS Operational Framework is essential.
• Knowledge and experience managing web platforms, including Drupal, is an asset.
• Proven stakeholder engagement and donor relations experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, presentation and communication skills.
• Leadership, versatility, judgement, maturity, ability to work effectively and harmoniously as part of a team and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.
• Language Requirements: English Fluency other UN Languages Desirable