International Medical Secretary

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries and has a workforce of more than 45,000 employees. The organization is known for its commitment to providing assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that binds MSF’s 24 sections, 28 associations, and 19 branch offices together, providing coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement, as well as implementing international projects and initiatives as requested.

Job Overview:
The International Medical Secretary (IMS) plays a crucial role in facilitating the work of the IMS and driving the strategic development and implementation of MSF’s international medical and operational agenda. This position requires active contribution across multiple workstreams, including medical leadership and strategic vision, external medical positioning and representation, medical-operational integration, intersectional collaboration, and fostering mutual accountability. The IMS will also act as a substitute when required, ensuring that the medical agenda of MSF is effectively communicated and implemented across various platforms and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International Medical Secretary include actively shaping and driving the definition of medical-operational priorities, building and maintaining MSF’s medical reputation and advocacy positioning with key global health and humanitarian actors, and advising and overseeing MSF Medical Positioning. This involves providing strategic advice and oversight in promoting MSF’s positions to external actors, ensuring alignment with internationally agreed priorities, policies, and guidelines. The IMS will also support the monitoring and reporting of SPARC priorities, lead the development of the mutual accountability report, and represent the IMS in internal meetings across executive and social mission platforms during planned or unforeseen absences. Additionally, the IMS will provide support to the International coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Medical Coordinator (IMC) in executing work under IMC purview, ensuring seamless coordination and fostering intersectional collaboration across sections and operational divisions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of medical humanitarian work. They should have experience in strategic planning and implementation, as well as a proven track record of working in complex environments. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders is essential, along with a commitment to MSF’s principles and values. Candidates should also demonstrate a capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving in high-pressure situations.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in medicine, public health, international relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian assistance or global health will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of medical and operational issues in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role within the humanitarian sector, with a focus on medical operations and strategic development. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in emergency settings, is highly desirable. Familiarity with MSF’s operational context and methodologies will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in French or Spanish is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to MSF’s operational contexts will be considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract at 80% for a duration of 3 years, with the possibility of renewal for a maximum of 6 years. The successful candidate will be offered a contract in the MSF office of their country of residence at the time of application. Compensation and benefits will be based on MSF's current practices in the entity establishing the contract.