Unlocking Opportunities: How Pharmacists Can Successfully Apply for Positions at WHO

1. Understanding WHO and Its Mission

Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to understand WHO's mission and its role in global health. WHO is a specialized agency of the United Nations, responsible for international public health. It aims to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. For pharmacists, working with WHO means contributing to global health initiatives, improving pharmaceutical practices worldwide, and ensuring access to essential medicines.

WHO's work spans various areas, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, health system strengthening, emergency response, and promoting health equity. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in these areas, particularly in medicine management, supply chain logistics, policy development, and providing technical expertise in disease management and drug safety.

2. Identifying Suitable Positions for Pharmacists

The first step in applying for a pharmacist position at WHO is to identify a role that aligns with your skills and career aspirations. WHO offers various pharmacist-related positions, such as:

• Pharmaceutical Advisor: This role involves providing technical advice on pharmaceutical practices, ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicines.
• Drug Policy Specialist: Focuses on developing and implementing policies related to drug use and regulation.
• Supply Chain Pharmacist: Manages the supply chain of medicines and medical supplies in different regions.
• Health Systems Pharmacist: Works on strengthening pharmaceutical services within health systems.

To find available positions, visit the WHO careers page: https://www.who.int/careers. Use keywords like "pharmacist," "pharmaceutical," or "drug policy" in the search bar to filter relevant jobs.

3. Meeting Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications

Each position at WHO has specific eligibility criteria and qualifications. Generally, for pharmacist roles, WHO looks for candidates with:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences: Advanced degrees, such as a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or a PhD in a related field, are often preferred.
• Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical management, or a related field. WHO may require specific experience in public health, clinical pharmacy, regulatory affairs, or pharmaceutical policy.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is usually mandatory, and knowledge of other official WHO languages (French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and Arabic) is an added advantage.
• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of global health issues, pharmaceutical regulations, and public health policies.

Review the job descriptions carefully on the WHO careers page to ensure you meet all required qualifications and experience for the specific role you are interested in.

4. Preparing a Standout Application

A standout application is crucial to securing a position at WHO. Here are some essential components to focus on:

a) Tailor Your Resume/CV

Your resume or CV should be tailored specifically for the position you're applying for. Highlight your relevant experience in pharmacy practice, research, policy development, or any public health work. Include quantifiable achievements, such as "Reduced medication errors by 30% through implementation of a new safety protocol," to demonstrate your impact.

b) Craft a Compelling Cover Letter

Your cover letter should not just reiterate your resume but provide a narrative about why you're passionate about working with WHO. Discuss your commitment to public health, your experience in pharmacy, and how you can contribute to WHO’s mission. Be specific about what draws you to WHO and the particular role.

c) Gather Strong References

WHO may require references as part of the application process. Choose references who can speak to your professional skills, ethical standards, and ability to work in diverse and high-pressure environments. Former supervisors, mentors, or colleagues who have overseen your work in pharmacy practice or public health are ideal.

5. Navigating the Online Application Process

Once your resume, cover letter, and references are ready, it's time to navigate the WHO's online application process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Create an Account: Visit the WHO careers portal at https://www.who.int/careers and create a user account. This will allow you to apply for multiple positions and track your application status.
2. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form accurately. Ensure all your personal information, educational background, and work experience are correct and up-to-date. Double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors.
3. Upload Required Documents: WHO may require you to upload several documents, including your resume, cover letter, academic transcripts, and professional certifications. Ensure these documents are in the required format (usually PDF).
4. Answer Screening Questions: The application process may include screening questions specific to the job. Answer these questions thoughtfully, providing detailed responses that showcase your experience and suitability for the role.
5. Submit Your Application: After completing all sections and reviewing your application, click submit. You will receive a confirmation email acknowledging your submission.

6. Preparing for the Interview Process

If your application is shortlisted, WHO will invite you for an interview. The interview process can vary depending on the role and department but generally includes the following steps:

a) Preliminary Screening

This may involve a preliminary phone or video interview where basic information about your experience, motivation, and understanding of WHO’s work is assessed.

b) Panel Interview

The main interview is often conducted by a panel of WHO staff members. This can be in-person or virtual. Expect questions related to your experience in pharmacy, your understanding of global health issues, and how you can contribute to WHO’s objectives. Behavioral questions are common, such as "Describe a time when you had to manage a critical situation in your pharmacy practice."

c) Technical Assessment

For some roles, especially technical or specialized positions, you may be asked to complete a written assessment or case study. This could involve creating a plan for managing a drug supply chain during an emergency or developing a policy brief on a pharmaceutical issue.

d) Language Proficiency Test

If the role requires proficiency in a specific language, you may need to complete a language assessment test.

7. Understanding WHO’s Recruitment Timeline

WHO's recruitment process can take several weeks to months, depending on the number of applicants and the urgency of the role. Here’s a general timeline to keep in mind:

• Application Review: 2-4 weeks
• Initial Screening and Interviews: 2-6 weeks
• Final Selection and Offer: 4-8 weeks

It’s essential to remain patient and proactive. Keep checking your application status on the WHO portal and ensure your contact details are up-to-date.

8. Accepting an Offer and Preparing for the Role

If you successfully pass all stages, WHO will extend an offer. The offer package usually includes details about the role, salary, benefits, and other terms of employment.

• Review the Offer Carefully: Ensure you understand all terms and conditions. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the HR representative for clarification.
• Prepare for Relocation: If the position is in a different country, start preparing for relocation. WHO often assists with relocation logistics and offers orientation programs for new employees.
• Complete Onboarding: WHO has a comprehensive onboarding process to help new employees integrate into the organization. This includes training sessions on WHO’s policies, procedures, and the specific role.

9. Thriving in Your Role at WHO

As a pharmacist at WHO, your role will significantly impact global health. To thrive:

• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in global health and pharmaceuticals.
• Network and Collaborate: Build strong relationships with colleagues, both within and outside your department. Collaboration is key to success at WHO.
• Continual Learning: WHO values continuous learning. Take advantage of the training programs and workshops offered.