International Consultant – ECD and Pacific Young Children Report

About the role

The International Consultant will lead the development of the Status of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in the Pacific Report, covering children aged 0‑8 years. The assignment is remote‑based with travel across Pacific Island Countries over an 11‑month period.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement statistically sound survey methodologies and compile regional datasets to produce an integrated evidence base on child wellbeing.
• Coordinate with Pacific ministries, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and UNICEF to ensure the report aligns with regional strategies such as the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy.
• Develop costed implementation plans, provide technical assistance to ministries, and support policy implementation across health, nutrition, protection and education sectors.
• Present findings to regional platforms including the Pacific ECD Forum, PIF Women Leaders Meeting and Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in early childhood development, education policy, public health, economics of education or a related social science discipline.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive professional experience in ECD, with at least 5 years in programme planning, management and research.
• Demonstrated experience working in Pacific Island Countries and providing direct technical assistance to government ministries.
• Proven track record of developing ECD plans, costed implementation plans and analytical publications.

Required skills

• Strong analytical and research skills applied to early childhood development data.
• Expertise in multi‑sectoral coordination and stakeholder engagement across health, education and social sectors.