Emergency Pool Coordinator

Emergency Pool Coordinator

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

July 24, 2026September 7, 2026BrusselsBelgium
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, is an international humanitarian organization founded in 197
  • The organization provides medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. MSF operates in over 70 countries, with a mission to provide high-quality medical care and to advocate for the rights of those in need. The organization is known for its commitment to impartiality, neutrality, and independence, and employs thousands of staff worldwide, including medical professionals, logistical experts, and administrative personnel.

Job Overview:
The Emergency Pool Coordinator plays a pivotal role within the MSF Operational Centre Brussels (OCB), specifically within the Emergency Pool (Epool) that is integral to the Operations Department. This position is designed for individuals who are adept at managing acute crises, including conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters, while ensuring that high standards of medical care are maintained. The Epool is responsible for identifying and responding to emergencies where MSF does not have an established program, as well as providing surge capacity to existing programs. The Coordinator will oversee a team that includes a Medical Deputy Coordinator and Emergency Coordinators, and will be responsible for strategic decision-making, management, and representation at the OCB level. The role requires a proactive approach to emergency positioning across the MSF movement and a commitment to integrating lessons learned into operational practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Emergency Pool Coordinator will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: defining and evolving the Epool Intervention Framework in collaboration with the Directors of Operations; contributing to the operational strategy and emergency positioning of OCB; leading annual strategic reviews to assess priorities, capacity, and resources; managing Epool-led interventions, ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and quality of care; participating in key emergency assignments and evaluations; overseeing downscale and exit processes; supporting emergency preparedness planning; recruiting and developing Epool team members; maintaining collaboration with all OCB departments; ensuring safeguarding measures are integrated into interventions; leading public communication efforts; monitoring emerging crises; overseeing intervention budgets; representing MSF in various forums; and ensuring the visibility of Epool operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience with MSF in a senior management role, such as Country Coordinator, Country Representative, Emergency Coordinator, or Medical Coordinator. Experience at the headquarters level is considered a strong asset. Applicants should have a proven track record in managing complex emergency responses across various crisis typologies, including conflict, epidemics, and natural disasters. Strong knowledge of MSF's organizational structure and operational approach is essential, particularly in emergency intervention environments. Experience in managing multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, including remote management, is also required. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to work across institutional boundaries and collaborate with multiple departments and external partners.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, typically including a degree in a field related to humanitarian work, public health, international relations, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in emergency management or humanitarian response may be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience, specifically a minimum of 5 years in senior management roles within MSF or similar organizations. Candidates should have experience managing complex emergency responses and a strong understanding of the operational challenges faced in crisis situations. Experience in leading teams and projects in high-pressure environments is crucial.

Languages:
Proficiency in both French and English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this role. Additionally, knowledge of Arabic, Portuguese, or Spanish is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse contexts.

Additional Notes:
The expected starting date for this position is October 2026, with the location based in Brussels, Belgium. The contract type is a mandate of 4 years, which is extendable for a maximum of 2 additional years. This is a full-time position that requires frequent project visits and deployments. The salary will be determined according to the MSF-OCB HQ grid, and benefits include meal vouchers, hospital insurance (DKV), a pension plan, and 100% reimbursement for public transportation costs. A relocation package will be provided in accordance with MSF policy for non-Belgian residents. Homeworking is permitted as per MSF policy. Candidates are expected to adhere to MSF principles and managerial values, including respect, transparency, integrity, accountability, trust, and empowerment, as well as MSF behavioral commitments.
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