Regional Advisor Asia Pacific

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that provides emergency aid to individuals affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide, delivering assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that unites MSF's 24 sections, 27 associations, and 18 branch offices, providing coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement. Registered in Switzerland, MSF International also implements international projects and initiatives as requested by the organization. The MSF Access team is dedicated to improving the accessibility, availability, affordability, appropriateness, and quality of healthcare products for the populations it assists. This team plays a crucial role in identifying and implementing priority access projects and providing expert support for access activities across MSF, while also gathering relevant information and analysis to enhance MSF's access work. The MSF Access team operates from five regional hubs, including Kuala Lumpur, Nairobi, Brussels, Dakar, and Rio de Janeiro.

Job Overview:
The Regional Advisor for Asia Pacific will report directly to the Head of Hub Asia Pacific and is tasked with enhancing the understanding of regional contexts, maintaining and expanding key networks, and engaging with relevant stakeholders. This role is pivotal in supporting the design and implementation of effective advocacy strategies directed towards governments, non-governmental organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and the research community in the Asia Pacific region. The advisor will work closely with the MSF Access team to ensure that advocacy efforts align with both regional and global strategic objectives. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying and addressing access issues, leveraging regional insights to inform global strategies, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to improve healthcare access.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Regional Advisor will be responsible for several key activities, including: developing systems to continuously monitor and analyze policies and stakeholders related to MSF Access strategic objectives; analyzing regional trends and opportunities, providing strategic advice on potential new opportunities and threats; collaborating with MSF Access colleagues and regional offices to design and implement advocacy strategies that align with the Access Strategic Plan objectives; contributing to the development of regional analysis and advocacy strategies by contextualizing global MSF Access objectives; strengthening engagement with key stakeholders relevant to MSF Access objectives; representing MSF Access in various health platforms; acting as a spokesperson for the MSF Access Kuala Lumpur hub; supporting MSF Operations in understanding medical-political issues affecting access; and managing short-term researchers or consultants on special projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of healthcare access issues, particularly in the Asia Pacific region. They should have excellent analytical skills, with the ability to assess complex political and social landscapes. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and community organizations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to MSF's humanitarian principles and possess the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Proficiency in advocacy and policy development is also required, along with a proven track record of successful project management.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in public health, international relations, political science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in healthcare access, advocacy, or humanitarian assistance will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the healthcare landscape in the Asia Pacific region and familiarity with MSF's operational context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in advocacy, public health, or humanitarian work, particularly within the Asia Pacific region. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective advocacy strategies and possess experience in engaging with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders. Experience working in a humanitarian context or with international organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within MSF and for external advocacy efforts. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia Pacific region, such as Mandarin, Bahasa Malaysia, or other regional languages, is considered a strong asset and will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and is intended for candidates from the Asia Pacific region. The role may involve occasional travel within the region and requires a commitment to MSF's humanitarian principles. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with experience and in line with MSF's policies.