International Consultant - Antimicrobial Use (AMU), Access and/or Stewardship
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region (SEARO) is establishing a roster of consultants to address the ongoing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Member states face challenges in antimicrobial use, access, stewardship, and governance. This role supports regional and country-level efforts to combat AMR, aligning with global and regional action plans.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to provide specialized technical expertise to WHO Member States in the South-East Asia Region to combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). The role will support efforts in strengthening antimicrobial stewardship, improving access to quality antimicrobials, optimizing their use, enhancing pharmaceutical governance and regulatory systems, and implementing One Health approaches. Consultants will contribute to achieving regional and national AMR action plans, aligning with global strategies and WHO guidance, ultimately bolstering health system resilience and public health outcomes in the region.
Responsibilities
Consultants will support Member States in various aspects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) control. Key responsibilities include establishing or strengthening Antimicrobial Use (AMU) surveillance systems, developing and implementing Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) programmes, and assessing/improving access to antimicrobials and managing shortages. Additionally, consultants will review and support regulatory frameworks and pharmaceutical governance, promote One Health approaches for AMU optimization, develop and deliver capacity-building activities, and contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and performance assessment of AMR programmes. They will also develop technical guidance, research, and knowledge products to support policy and implementation efforts.
Work Experience
Essential: Band B requires at least five years of progressive experience in AMS, antimicrobial use monitoring, pharmaceutical systems, policy development, or public health programmes. Band C requires at least ten years of demonstrated expertise in areas such as antimicrobial stewardship, pharmaceutical governance, access to medicines, or One Health implementation. Desirable experience includes working in low- and middle-income countries, with WHO or UN agencies, and facilitating multidisciplinary initiatives.
Skills
Expertise in antimicrobial use (AMU) and/or stewardship (AMS); Knowledge of WHO AWaRe classification; Understanding of pharmaceutical systems and medicines regulation; Experience with antimicrobial consumption monitoring; Ability to apply WHO standards and tools; Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills; Ability to analyze complex information and develop practical recommendations.