HEALTH COORDINATOR – Pacific Community

JOB DESCRIPTION & SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Suva-based position (Fiji)
Attractive expatriate package
Join the principal development organisation in the region

Description

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Land Resources Division (LRD) provides advice, technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories on all aspects of agriculture and forestry. This includes plant protection, conservation, plant genetic resources, animal health and production, agroforestry, biosecurity and trade facilitation, and sustainable systems for agriculture, forestry and land management. This work has two objectives: improved food and nutritional security, and resilient communities. The division’s services are provided through seven technical/thematic teams: Animal Health and Production; Plant Health; Biosecurity and Trade Facilitation; Forest and Agriculture Diversification; Crop Production and Extension; Genetic Resources; and Forests and Trees.

The One Health Coordinator will focus on developing, strengthening, and helping to steer SPC’s, and the region’s one health approach through the Pacific Community One Health Working Group (SPCOHWG). The incumbent will work across the various divisions within SPC to establish a framework and implementation mechanisms to strengthen the One Health approach for animal, environment, and human health in the Pacific.

The key responsibilities of the role include:

One health approach implementation support

Provide support for the establishment of the framework and implementation mechanisms to strengthen the One Health approach for animal, environment, and human health
Improve coordination and collaboration on a One Health approach across member countries and stakeholders
Policy and Resource Mobilisation

Provide ongoing coordination & facilitation support on the development and implementation of the Pacific Community One Health Working Group (SPCOHWG) annual operational workplan
Provide technical support to SPCOHWG on the implementation of its strategic priorities related to One Health in the region
Programme Coordination

Support the identification and delivery of ongoing training programmes for One Health working group members
Assist the Animal Health and Production Team with other relevant work to raise One Health awareness, to improve livestock farming practices and reduce environmental contamination, to improve food safety systems
Communication information and knowledge dissemination

Coordinate one health work planning, communication and monitoring and reporting activities of services delivered in countries
Ensure high quality communication and visibility of network and other relevant programme activities

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

A post graduate degree in veterinary science, public health or related field
Technical expertise

At least 5 years’ experience in programme and policy development support related to one health
Proven experience in negotiating, building and maintaining professional, client-focused relationship and mutually beneficial partnerships
Experience in coordination of multiple and diverse stakeholders
Aptitude for the provision of high-quality service
Strong analytical skills and the ability to master new material quickly
Experience in Project Management
Ability to set priorities successfully to meet tight deadlines
Proactive in seeking to develop new areas of work within identified objectives and strategies
Willingness to undertake frequent travel both within and outside the region
Language skills

Excellent English communication skills (oral and written) with a working knowledge of French being an advantage
Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment
Creative thinker and ability to work independently

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – till 31st May 2024 – subject to renewal depending on funding and performance

Remuneration – The One Health Coordinator is a Band 10 position in SPC’s 2022 salary scale, with a starting salary range of 2,512‒3,140 SDR (special drawing rights) per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 7,410–9,263 (USD 3,592–4,490; EUR 3,014–3,768). An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.

Benefits for international employees based in Fiji – SPC provides a housing allowance of FJD 1,350–3,000 per month. Establishment and repatriation grant, removal expenses, airfares, home leave travel, health and life and disability insurances and education allowances are available for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Employees are entitled to 25 working days of annual leave per annum and other types of leave, and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution).

Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.

Recruitment principles – SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander.