Strategic Advocacy Advisor

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 while implementing international projects and initiatives as required. The organization is registered in Switzerland and is committed to improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations through its various initiatives, including the MSF Access team, which focuses on enhancing the accessibility, availability, affordability, appropriateness, and quality of healthcare products.

Job Overview:
The Strategic advisor" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Advocacy Advisor plays a crucial role in designing and implementing effective advocacy strategies aimed at overcoming access hurdles related to healthcare products for populations served by MSF. Reporting to the Head of Advocacy, the advisor will work closely with various stakeholders, including governments, non-governmental organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and the research community, to achieve agreed strategic objectives. The advisor will also collaborate with regional teams to tailor advocacy strategies to specific contexts and will support the development of knowledge management tools to enhance global health engagement. This position requires a deep understanding of global health trends and the ability to analyze and respond to emerging opportunities and threats that may impact MSF's access objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Advocacy Advisor will be responsible for a variety of key activities, including: analyzing global trends and opportunities related to MSF's access strategic objectives; collaborating with the MSF access analysis department to understand technical and medical challenges; developing and implementing advocacy strategies in coordination with regional hubs and advocacy counterparts; identifying key political events and policies that require influence; developing strategies and tactics to engage with these political processes; strengthening relationships with key global stakeholders; representing MSF in relevant forums and meetings; and reporting on achievements and key discussions. Additionally, the advisor will support the development of knowledge management tools for the advocacy team across different regions, ensuring that best practices and lessons learned are shared effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Strategic Advocacy Advisor position should possess a strong background in advocacy, public health, or a related field. They should have demonstrated experience in developing and implementing advocacy strategies, particularly in the context of healthcare access. Strong analytical skills are essential, as the advisor will need to assess global trends and their implications for MSF's work. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also required, as the advisor will collaborate with various stakeholders and represent MSF in public forums. A proven ability to work in a multicultural environment and manage multiple priorities effectively is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the Strategic Advocacy Advisor position. Candidates should ideally hold a master's degree in public health, international relations, political science, or a related field. Advanced training or certifications in advocacy, health policy, or humanitarian assistance would be advantageous and demonstrate a commitment to the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in advocacy, public health, or a related area. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or in a humanitarian context is highly desirable. Familiarity with global health issues, particularly those related to access to healthcare products, will be a significant asset. The candidate should also have a track record of successfully influencing policy and engaging with high-level stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within MSF and in international advocacy contexts. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly French, Spanish, or Portuguese, would be considered a strong advantage, as it would facilitate engagement with diverse stakeholders and enhance the advisor's effectiveness in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel to various MSF operational sites and meetings globally. The role is classified at a senior level, reflecting the strategic importance of advocacy within MSF's mission. The organization is open to recruiting internationally, and candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with experience and in line with MSF's policies.