WHO Consultant for National Medicines Policy Revision

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 over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

Job Overview:
The position of WHO Consultant for National Medicines Policy Revision is critical for the development and revision of Ghana's National Medicines Policy (NMP). The consultant will provide national technical support to ensure that the revised policy is evidence-based and aligns with both national priorities and international best practices. This role involves coordinating with WHO and key national stakeholders to address implementation gaps and emerging challenges in the pharmaceutical sector. The consultant will be responsible for adopting lessons learned from the current policy, assessing the needs of the pharmaceutical sector, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and preparing a comprehensive National Medicines Policy that supports Universal Health Coverage in Ghana.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities including reviewing the existing National Medicines Policy, analyzing the pharmaceutical governance environment, and proposing updated policy objectives and interventions. They will conduct stakeholder interviews, focus group discussions, and validation meetings to gather input from experts and stakeholders. The consultant will also develop a costed implementation plan and a monitoring and evaluation framework for the revised policy. Key responsibilities include strategic governance, high-level coordination, stakeholder engagement, and providing strategic support for effective implementation of the revised policy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Pharmacy, Public Health, Health Policy, Pharmaceutical Systems, or a related field. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 7 years of senior-level experience in health systems governance and pharmaceutical sector strengthening, with at least 10 years of proven experience working in Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector. Desirable qualifications include the ability to operate credibly at senior administrative levels and a strong understanding of health systems governance and policy implementation.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Pharmacy, Public Health, Health Policy, or Pharmaceutical Systems is required. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of health systems and the pharmaceutical sector in Ghana.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of senior-level experience in health systems governance and pharmaceutical sector strengthening. Candidates should have at least 10 years of experience working specifically within Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector, demonstrating a deep understanding of the local context and challenges.

Languages:
An excellent command of spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be conducted over approximately 90 working days within a four-month period. The consultant will work on-site in Accra and designated regions within Ghana, with some off-site work allowed. The contract type is National Consultant, and the payment grade is NOD Level 1, with a total remuneration of GHS 150,00

• The position may involve travel within Ghana, and living expenses will be provided for on-site consultants. Candidates should be aware that WHO conducts background verification for final candidates and adheres to strict ethical standards, including a commitment to diversity and a smoke-free environment.