Behavior Change Communication Specialist / Expert

Job Title: Behavior Change Communication (BCC) Specialist/Expert

Location: Mardan

Reports To: Project Manager

Job Type: Contractual

Objective:

The Behavior Change Communication (BCC) Specialist/Expert will be responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating behavior change strategies to support WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and Menstrual Health Management (MHM) activities in girls' schools and communities. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, schools, communities, and media partners, to develop and execute effective communication campaigns aimed at promoting positive behavior change.

Key Responsibilities:

BCC Strategy Development:

• Design and implement comprehensive BCC strategies focused on improving WASH and MHM practices in schools and communities.
• Identify target behaviors and audiences through research and formative assessments.
• Develop messages and materials tailored to specific cultural, social, and demographic contexts, addressing taboos and misconceptions around menstruation.

Research and Analysis:

• Conduct desk reviews and formative research to understand behavior patterns, barriers, and motivators related to WASH and MHM.
• Analyze data to inform the design and delivery of BCC interventions.
• Collaborate with research teams to monitor and evaluate the impact of BCC activities.

Content Development:

• Develop and produce BCC materials, including print, digital, and audio-visual content, focusing on menstrual hygiene, water conservation, and sanitation practices.
• Ensure messaging is clear, culturally appropriate, and aligned with project goals.
• Work with creative agencies, media partners, and consultants to produce high-quality materials.

Capacity Building:

• rain and mentor project staff, teachers, community health workers, and local influencers on BCC methodologies related to WASH and MHM.
• Facilitate workshops, focus groups, and community meetings to engage stakeholders.
• Develop toolkits and guidelines to support BCC activities in schools and communities.

Community Engagement:

• Foster partnerships with local communities, leaders, and influencers to promote behavior change around WASH and MHM.
• Design and implement community mobilization strategies, especially targeting parents, boys, and community leaders to support girls' education and menstrual health.
• Ensure inclusivity and gender sensitivity in all BCC activities.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Collaborate with M&E teams to track the progress and effectiveness of BCC interventions in schools and communities.
• Use data to refine strategies and improve outcomes related to WASH and MHM.
• Document lessons learned and best practices.

Advocacy and Partnership:

• Advocate for policy changes to support WASH and MHM initiatives in schools.
• Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, NGOs, and media partners to promote sustainable behavior change.
• Represent the project in BCC-related forums and networks.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in communications, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in designing and implementing BCC strategies, preferably in WASH and MHM sectors.
• Proven experience in developing communication materials and managing campaigns.
• Knowledge of behavior change theories and frameworks.
• Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in multicultural settings and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in local languages is an advantage.

Skills and Competencies:

• Expertise in behavior change communication methodologies.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and social media platforms.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

Key Deliverables:

• Comprehensive BCC strategy and implementation plan focusing on WASH and MHM.
• Development of culturally
•  appropriate BCC materials for schools and communities.
• Capacity-building workshops and training sessions for school staff, health workers, and community leaders.
• Regular reports on the impact and progress of BCC interventions.
• Documentation of best practices and lessons learned.

Work Environment:

The BCC Specialist/Expert will be based at Mardan and will be required to travel to project sites as needed. The position may involve collaboration with schools, local communities, government agencies, and partners in diverse settings.