Flying Intersectional Pharmacist

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that was established to deliver emergency aid to individuals affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. MSF operates globally, with a presence in 24 sections, 28 associations, and 19 branch offices, providing assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. Registered in Switzerland, MSF International serves as the legal entity that unites the various sections and provides coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement, while also implementing international projects and initiatives as required. The organization is committed to humanitarian principles and strives to ensure that quality medical care is accessible to those in need, regardless of their circumstances.

Job Overview:
The Flying Intersectional Pharmacist (Flying ISP) position is designed to support MSF programs and sections in the supply of medicines and medical devices, ensuring that MSF's quality standards are upheld in accordance with the evolving situations and available information. This role is particularly focused on addressing ad-hoc needs in locations where a permanent pharmacist is not present. The Flying ISP will primarily work from home but will be required to travel frequently to various field locations, with more than 80% of the work involving field visits. The position is intended to provide direct support and capacity strengthening to MSF missions, ensuring that patients have access to quality assured medical products and specialized food in line with MSF's Quality Assurance policy. The Flying ISP will act as a mobile expert, traveling to different countries of operation to provide necessary support without the need for a permanent position.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Flying ISP will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including providing technical support to MSF missions in negotiations with local authorities regarding the importation and access to quality medicines. This includes briefing Med/Log/Supply Coordinators and Country Pharmacists on the pharmaceutical situation and import constraints. The Flying ISP will also develop and deliver training sessions to enhance understanding of humanitarian importation for medical products, facilitate workshops tailored to different staff levels, and create training materials. Additionally, the Flying ISP will ensure that Country Constraints Sheets and Country Supply Profile Tools are reviewed and updated, favor contacts with other NGOs and local organizations regarding essential medicines, and provide guidance on national regulations. Reports summarizing visits, stakeholder engagement, negotiations, achievements, challenges, and recommendations will be required after each field visit. The Flying ISP will also conduct Local Market Assessments (LMAs) when necessary, assess compliance of MSF warehouses, and work on mutualisation by establishing technical focal points and facilitating regular meetings among mission pharmacists and supply units.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Flying ISP position must possess a strong background in pharmacy, with a focus on humanitarian contexts. They should have a thorough understanding of pharmaceutical regulations and quality assurance processes, as well as experience in negotiating with local authorities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as the role involves training and capacity building for other pharmacists. The ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment is crucial. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to MSF's humanitarian principles and values.

Educational Background:
A degree in pharmacy or a related field is required for the Flying ISP position. Advanced qualifications or certifications in pharmaceutical sciences, quality assurance, or related areas will be considered an asset. Continuous professional development in humanitarian medicine or public health is also beneficial.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in pharmacy, particularly in humanitarian settings or emergency response. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or in field operations is highly desirable. Familiarity with MSF's operational context and previous experience in similar roles will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Flying ISP position, as it is the primary language of communication within MSF. Proficiency in French or other languages relevant to the countries of operation is considered a strong asset, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and facilitates training efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a fixed-term contract at 100% for a duration of 1 year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The role is primarily home-based, with significant travel to field locations required. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment and the challenges associated with working in diverse cultural and operational contexts. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with MSF's policies and standards.