Evidence Action scales proven interventions that improve the lives of millions. We only implement cost-effective programs whose efficacy is backed by substantial rigorous evidence. The Syphilis-Free Start program focuses on the elimination of congenital syphilis through dual HIV/syphilis testing and treatment interventions. This consultancy role involves providing high-level technical assistance to Ministries of Health and stakeholders during Global Fund (GFATM) Grant Cycle 8 (GC8) processes.
Scope of Work / Responsibilities
Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain relationships on behalf of Evidence Action with key stakeholders in Ministries of Health, local GFATM country coordinating mechanisms, development partners, and other implementing partners.
- Conduct stakeholder mapping to identify key decision-makers and influencers regarding GFATM proposal decisions and domestic health funding commitments.
- Serve as an advocate for dual (HIV & Syphilis) or triple (HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B) elimination prioritization in multi-stakeholder forums.
GC8 Proposal Development Support
- Participate in GC8 planning, budgeting, quantification, and proposal writing meetings with Ministry of Health stakeholders.
- Provide technical input on integrating HIV/syphilis dual tests and benzathine penicillin (BZP) into GC8 funding requests.
- Support development and revision of relevant national policies, guidelines, strategic plans, and operational plans related to dual/triple elimination.
- Support drafting of GC8 proposal sections related to PMTCT and congenital syphilis elimination.
- Review draft GC8 submissions and provide technical feedback.
- Assist in developing implementation roadmaps and M&E frameworks.
Technical Analysis & Tools
- Conduct commodity quantification for dual HIV/syphilis tests and benzathine penicillin based on country needs.
- Utilize and adapt Evidence Action-provided tools (quantification calculators, budget templates, policy alignment frameworks).
- Review costing and cost-benefit analyses demonstrating the value proposition of dual testing.
- Support gap analysis to identify bottlenecks in the GC8 proposal process.
Other Duties
- Facilitate virtual meetings between Evidence Action staff and in-country stakeholders.
- Arrange logistics and schedule meetings for potential in-country visits by Evidence Action program staff.
- Support the operational and financial logistics required for up to two meetings/workshops related to the GC8 proposal development.
- Facilitate Evidence Action’s attainment of an MOU or other legal agreement required for technical assistance.
Reporting & Deliverables
The consultant will report to Evidence Action's Associate Director of Syphilis-Free Start and will:
- Attend regular virtual meetings with global program staff.
- Submit monthly progress reports documenting activities and developments.
- Share technical documents produced as part of the GC8 proposal development.
- Submit a final country-specific summary report at engagement conclusion.
- Contribute to cross-country learning and provide feedback on program toolkits.
Requirements
- 10+ years of relevant professional experience in global health.
- BA/BSc/HND in a relevant field.
- Demonstrated experience supporting Global Fund proposal and budgeting processes.
- Experience providing technical assistance to Ministries of Health.
- Deep knowledge of HIV prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programming.
- Strong understanding of maternal and child health systems in low- and middle-income countries.
- Familiarity with Global Fund application requirements and review processes.
- Experience developing policy documents, strategic plans, and operational guidelines.
- Proactive initiative and strong relationship-building skills.
- Oral and written fluency in English (French/Portuguese fluency is an advantage in specific regions).
