National Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, providing leadership on global health matters, shaping the health research agenda, setting norms and standards, and providing technical support to countries. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity, inclusiveness, and a commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Job Overview:
The National Consultant position is pivotal in supporting WHO Sri Lanka's efforts to enhance the regulatory environment and improve access to essential medicines and health technologies. The consultant will coordinate and monitor strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the health system's regulatory framework, ensuring that all citizens have equitable access to safe and effective medical products. This role involves collaboration with various national institutions, including the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) and the Medical Supplies Division (MSD), to implement activities that improve the selection and use of essential medicines, update clinical standards, and prevent the entry of substandard medical products. The consultant will also facilitate consultations, technical meetings, and training sessions, ensuring that all activities align with WHO standards and contribute to the overarching goal of UHC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: coordinating the implementation of activities related to improving access to medicines; updating essential medicines lists; revising national formularies; and strengthening supply chain management. The consultant will support the institutional strengthening of medicines regulation and quality assurance through NMRA and NMQAL, enabling improved oversight of medical products and the prevention of substandard and falsified products. Additionally, the consultant will work on enhancing the medical equipment landscape by developing standard technical specifications, establishing a medical equipment information system, and providing capacity development for Biomedical Engineers and Technicians. The role also involves coordinating among different divisions of the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of WHO work plan activities, facilitating consultations and technical meetings, and developing communication and visibility products.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree (bachelor’s degree) in medicine, health, or public health. An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in health, public health, or a related area is desirable. Candidates should have advanced skills in the use of office software packages such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as database management skills. Competencies required for this position include teamwork, communication, respect for individual and cultural differences, and the ability to produce results.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree in the area of medicine, health, or public health. An advanced degree in a related field is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least one year of relevant work experience in the area of essential drugs and medicines or health systems strengthening. Experience working with government sectors or international organizations such as the UN is desirable and will be beneficial for applicants.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory, along with expert knowledge of a local language, either Sinhala or Tamil. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a locally competitive salary package, including health insurance through CIGNA Insurance, annual leave of 2.5 days per month, and sick leave of 7 days per year. The position is open to Sri Lankan nationals of all genders, with a particular encouragement for qualified female candidates to apply. The WHO is committed to workforce diversity and maintains a smoke-free environment, not recruiting smokers or other tobacco users. Note that qualified candidates will be evaluated and interviewed, but due to the high volume of applications, individual acknowledgments may not be possible.