Pharma Support Officer (Based in Any OCBA-Hub) – 2025
- Position: Pharma Support Officer
- Location: Barcelona, MSF-Spain Office Delegations, Amman, Dakar, Bogotá, or Nairobi (based on candidate eligibility)
- Type of Job: Part-time (50%)
- Job Category: Logistics/Procurement
- Salary: HQ 3B Level + Secondary Benefits
- Reporting To: Medical Department
- Application Deadline: 16th February 2025
Introduction
Are you a passionate pharmacist looking for an opportunity to make an impactful contribution in humanitarian medicine? As a Pharma Support Officer, you will be playing a pivotal role in improving the processes related to the purchase, handling, and management of pharmaceutical products in multiple missions worldwide. This unique role presents an exciting opportunity to work closely with stakeholders at headquarters and in the field, contributing to the development of a strong pharmaceutical quality culture in an international humanitarian organization. This is a part-time (50%) position that offers flexibility and the opportunity for professional growth.
About Us
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, is a leading independent international medical humanitarian organization. Since its inception, MSF has been at the forefront of providing medical assistance to populations in distress, especially those affected by armed conflict, natural disasters, and epidemics. MSF operates in more than 70 countries, focusing on providing care to those who are most in need, regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. As an employee of MSF, you will be part of an organization that embodies a commitment to impartiality, neutrality, and independence in its humanitarian missions.
Key Responsibilities
As a Pharma Support Officer, your primary duties will include:
- Local Purchase (LP) Validation: Assist in validating the purchase of medical items including medicines, medical devices, therapeutic food, and biomedical equipment, while updating the OCBA LP database.
- GSDP: Contribute to drafting Good Distribution Practice (GDP) policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and related guidance documents. Work closely with the Supply Chain Unit in analyzing and defining corrective actions following inspections and the CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions) system.
- Cold Chain Support: Provide support for cold chain management, including assisting in the development and revision of cold chain contingency plans and ensuring breakdown follow-ups with the Cold Chain Referees.
- Quality Alerts and Batch Recalls: Assist in diffusing and following up on quality alerts and batch recalls from MSF’s International Office and Global Supply Centers.
- Pharmacy Tool Kit Maintenance: Ensure the Pharmacy Toolkit is up to date and properly distributed. Oversee the proper dissemination of policies, SOPs, and guidelines within the Medical Department‘s SharePoint.
- NST Subscription and Database Management: Support the validation process of National Stock Take (NST), liaising with MSF Logistics and Medical Department Referents.
- AKIBA Implementation: Assist in AKIBA tool implementation, supporting the field in overcoming technical challenges in relation to predefined processes in the Medical Department.
- Training: Prepare, present, and revise two intersectional training programs on Pharmacy and Medical Stock Management and Pharmacist Training.
- Backup for Medical Department Pharmacists: Serve as a backup for Medical Department Pharmacists as needed.
- Support Waste Management, Cold Chain Days, and Biomed Days: Assist in organizing and facilitating training days and emergency training needs.
Qualifications and Skills
Required:
- Diploma in Pharmacy from a recognized institution.
- A minimum of 2 years of experience in MSF field positions (Project/Mission Pharma or Pharma Coordinator) or MSF HQ pharma-related positions.
- Computer literacy is essential, particularly with Excel and database management. Knowledge of Office 365 apps is highly desirable.
- Fluent in English (required), and proficiency in French and/or Spanish is an advantage. Arabic is a plus.
Preferred:
- Previous experience with OCBA (Operations Centre Barcelona) is an asset.
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical logistics, including cold chain management and quality control systems, is highly beneficial.
Company Culture and Values
At Médecins Sans Frontières, we believe in maintaining a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse work environment that supports professional development and work-life balance. We are committed to gender equality, teamwork, and integrity. Our organizational culture encourages innovation, collaboration, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the populations we serve.
We value employees who are adaptable, solution-oriented, and motivated by the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. MSF encourages open communication, fosters mutual respect, and ensures all staff feel supported and empowered in their roles.
Apply Now For Pharma Support Officer:
If you are ready to take on this exciting and challenging opportunity, we encourage you to apply.
To submit your application, please upload your CV and cover letter via the Apply Now button.
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
END OF JOB DESCRIPTION
Sample ATS Compliant Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Manager
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)
[Office Location]
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of Pharma Support Officer as advertised. With my Pharmacy diploma, coupled with my hands-on experience in medical logistics and pharmaceutical management during my time in field positions with Médecins Sans Frontières, I am confident that my expertise aligns with the needs of your team.
Throughout my career, I have gained substantial experience in cold chain management, quality assurance, and pharmaceutical distribution, directly contributing to the smooth running of medical operations in challenging environments. I have a deep commitment to the humanitarian sector, and my problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams will enable me to make a positive impact in this role.
I am eager to leverage my background to contribute to MSF’s mission and to further develop my skills in a dynamic and rewarding setting. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of an organization that makes a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the continued success of MSF.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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