Project Officer

Project Officer – Introduction of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) For Pregnant Women in Nepal

Job Purpose:

Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women pose a significant and pressing public health challenge in Nepal. During pregnancy, there is an increased demand for essential micronutrients to support the growth and development of both the mother and the developing fetus. However, a substantial portion of pregnant women in Nepal continue to suffer from inadequate intake of essential micronutrients, such as iron, folic acid, vitamin A, and others. This deficiency risks the health of pregnant women and has a serious implication for the well-being of their newborns.

Within the context of maternal nutrition and micronutrient supplementation, there are evidence suggesting that the multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS) based on the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP) to addressing the complex micronutrient needs of pregnant women and improved birth outcomes compared to IFA supplementation.

Considering the evidence base, Helen Keller International (HKI) in collaboration with various other stakeholders conducted landscape analysis in Nepal which recommended to conduct the implementation research for exploring the acceptability and adherence of MMS in the pregnant women. The evidence generated from this research will guide policymakers and stakeholders in the decision making for IFA to MMS transition.

Overall responsibilities:

The Project Officer position based in country office is responsible for providing administrative support on program planning, scheduling, and documentation, ensuring that program activities are well-organized and executed; facilitate communication among program stakeholders, internal and external partners; coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, and ensure that relevant information is shared on a timely manner; assists on preparing program report, compilation, and communication program status.

The position is responsible for ensuring HKI’s best practices are upheld, including adherence to the code of conduct, policies, and procedures, and making sure official matters are kept confidential as well as meeting donors reporting and compliance requirements.

Specific roles and responsibilities:

Support Research Manager in collaborating with stakeholders and project partners to ensure project’s alignment of goals and objectives.
Coordinate project activities, including meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
Document project progress, outcomes, and lessons learned.
Support in conducting awareness raising sessions and evidence sharing.
Support in the preparation of activity reports.
Engage with community members and beneficiaries to gather feedback and insights.
Stay up to date with developments in the field of nutrition and public health.

Qualifications and Competencies:

Educational Degree:

• Should have at least bachelor’s degree in public health, nutrition, international development, or relevant field (preferable master’s degree) with past experiences of five years (bachelor’s degree) or three years (master’s degree) in I/NGOs in nutrition/health sectors.

Experiences:

• Experience in project coordination and management
• Experience working across all three levels of government is a plus
• Experience in collaborating with various stakeholders, including government organizations, non-profit organizations, professional organizations, and communities
• Strong documentation skills, including the ability to maintain organized project records, reports, and data
• Experience in implementing awareness raising campaigns or programs related to nutrition or public health
• Understanding of the Nepal’s Health System.

Communication skills:

• Excellent written and spoken Nepali and English language skills

Flexible and multitask:

• An ability to maintain balance when under stress.
• Experience using Excel, Word, and PowerPoint and other software’s:
• Computer literate and proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
• In the spirit of our founder and namesake, Helen Keller
• is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is fully valued.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, caste, age, disability, or any other status that has no bearing on the ability of an individual to perform the functions of the job.