Technical Officer - Essential Medicines

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, focusing on universal health coverage, health emergencies, and promoting healthier populations.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Essential Medicines will play a crucial role in supporting the WHO's objectives in the African region, particularly in improving access to essential medicines and health products. This position involves providing technical guidance to countries and regional organizations, coordinating efforts to enhance the availability and affordability of essential medicines, and promoting best practices in pharmaceutical management. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that align with WHO resolutions and plans, ultimately contributing to the goal of universal health coverage. The role requires a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape, including regulatory systems, procurement processes, and the management of health technologies. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the impact of implemented strategies and ensuring that evidence-based policies are in place to support health systems in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing technical guidance for WHO's work on access to essential medicines and health products in the African region, focusing on non-communicable diseases (NCDs); guiding countries and regional organizations in generating reliable information on research and development, selection, pricing, financing, procurement, and supply management of essential medicines; coordinating platforms and supporting joint activities, including pooled procurement initiatives; defining and implementing WHO essential packages to support capacity building in pharmaceutical systems; promoting communication and partnerships within WHO and with external stakeholders; technically supporting networks and harmonization initiatives; identifying and developing strategic partnerships for resource mobilization; conducting ongoing monitoring and evaluation assessments; and performing other related responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in Pharmacy complemented by an advanced degree in Management of Medicines and Pharmaceutical Systems. Additionally, advanced training in Health Management and Planning or Public Health is desirable. The role requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in essential medicines management, analysis, costing, and procurement at both national and international levels, with at least five years of experience in resource-limited countries. Experience in capacity building and advising national health authorities on essential medicines is also essential. Desirable qualifications include experience in developing procurement protocols and guidelines for health professionals.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Pharmacy, which is essential, along with an advanced degree in Management of Medicines and Pharmaceutical Systems. Candidates with advanced training in Health Management and Planning or Public Health will have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in the field of essential medicines management, including analysis, costing, and procurement. Candidates should have at least five years of experience working in resource-limited countries, complemented by experience in capacity building and advising national health authorities on essential medicines. This extensive experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of pharmaceutical systems and the challenges faced in improving access to essential medicines.

Languages:
Essential language requirements include intermediate knowledge of English and expert knowledge of French. Desirable language skills include intermediate knowledge of Portuguese. The language requirements are interchangeable, allowing for flexibility in communication within the diverse contexts of the WHO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 86,027, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Brazzaville, currently amounting to USD 3,255 per month. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all staff members are expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards.