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CONTEXT
The OCB Medical Department (OCB – Operational Center Brussels) plays a strategic role by defining the modalities of implementation of MSF’s medical strategy so that both coherence and quality can be safeguarded across operations. They provide strategic support throughout the project cycle, combining a normative function with technical guidance for implementation and follow-up. Additionally, they ensure knowledge transfer to the medical workforce and foster research and innovation by challenging current practices and exploring new approaches.
It is composed of multiple specialists based across a network of units worldwide (Belgium, Brazil, Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Luxembourg, and South Africa) and works in close collaboration with operations, other OCB departments and MSF movement. We are also supporting the projects of MSF Western & Central Africa (WaCa).
As Regional Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Advisor primarily for West & Central Africa**,** you work in contexts with recurring humanitarian needs, requiring rapid assessments and agile responses to support timely and effective mental health interventions.
The role enables regular face-to-face coaching, supervision, and contextualised support to project teams, contributing to the maintenance and improvement of care quality.
MHPSS is integrated across a wide range of medical activities, requiring tailored approaches and close cross-sector collaboration.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide technical support and supervision to MHPSS staff in designated MSF projects in West and Central Africa
Conduct project visits for coaching, training, and quality assurance
Collaborate with project teams in the development of strategies to ensure alignment with MSF standards, practices and priorities
Support rapid mental health assessments in emergencies and contribute to response planning
Collaborate with medical and operational teams to integrate MHPSS into broader health and humanitarian strategies
Contribute to advocacy and lobbying efforts to promote mental health priorities within regional platforms
Develop and disseminate context-specific tools, guidelines, best practice examples and training materials
Nurture and facilitate knowledge and good practice transfer across the different projects through MHPSS peer virtual meet ups, webinars, and online presentations
Monitor and evaluate the impact and quality of MHPSS interventions
Represent MHPSS in regional coordination forums and technical working groups
Collaborate in operational research as required
Supervise projects in the proper collection and handling of data (monitoring tools, etc) and when needed be responsible for implementation of monitoring tools for MHPSS activities
REQUIREMENTS
Education & Experience
Master’s degree in psychology or social work or Medical Doctor degree with specialization in psychiatry
Essential working experience of at least 2 years as psychologist or other similar profession
Minimum 3 years of international experience with international NGOs as a Mental Health Activity Manager (MHAM) or similar, including at least 1 year as MHAM with MSF, with experience in different health thematic areas such as HIV, Mpox, “Survivor of Violence”, Ebola, and emergencies
Competencies
Strong understanding of regional dynamics, including political, environmental, and cultural factors
Excellent coaching skills
Flexibility
Analytical Thinking & Strategic Vision
Teamwork and Cooperation
Results and Quality Orientation
Initiative and Innovation
Cross-cultural Awareness
Languages
Proficiency in English and French, both written & spoken is mandatory
CONDITIONS
Expected starting date: As soon as possible
Location: Abidjan (Ivory Coast)
Mobility: 70% in MSF projects
Contract type: Fixed-term contract – full time
Contract duration: 1 year (potential extension)
The contractual terms, conditions and salary will be established according to the official residence of the selected candidate and in compliance with the standard MSF function and salary grids
Adhere to the MSF principles and to our managerial values: Respect, Transparency, Integrity, Accountability, Trust and Empowerment
Adhere to the MSF Behavioral Commitments
Deadline for applications: 29/07/26
How to apply
How to apply?
Submit your application via the ‘Apply here’ button on the vacancy page
You will be directed to the online application form for this position
It should take 5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you in advance for having your CV and motivation letter ready to upload (in pdf format)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
MSF values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, color or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.
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