Pharmacovigilance Network Manager

Akros is a cutting-edge organization that establishes data-driven systems that improve the health and wellbeing of disadvantaged communities. We pride ourselves in our ground-level knowledge of the health systems where we work, and our ability to provide novel, lasting solutions implemented in developing regions. 

Background 

Akros Research is supporting a program, funded by the Mastercard Foundation and in partnership with the Africa CDC, to increase Covid19 vaccine uptake in Africa. This initiative, called Saving Lives and Livelihoods, includes multiple components and partners working to procure, distribute, and promote vaccine uptake in a safe manner. As a part of this consortium Akros Research is supporting Africa Union member states in the Eastern and Southern African regions to strengthen vaccine safety surveillance systems. 

One of the program objectives is to strengthen the community of practice for pharmacovigilance in East and Southern Africa. In this vein, Akros is supporting initiatives to strengthen online resources for pharmacovigilance practitioners and to increase the dialogue within and between member states regarding pharmacovigilance strengthening. 

Akros is seeking a dynamic and innovative Pharmacovigilance Network Manager to help catalyze community-building efforts within the pharmacovigilance space. This person will support the creation of online content, help to identify and organize webinars, and identify new and creative ways to improve pharmacovigilance dialogue.  

Specific responsibilities:

• Generate engaging website and social media content to improve access to expert pharmacovigilance materials and network. 

• Identify ways to contact and speak with key pharmacovigilance stakeholders in member states. 

• Identify and implement strategies to connect with existing networks and provide ways to augment networks and extend conversations to newly identified stakeholders. 

• Build a comprehensive listserv of stakeholders from member states’ ministries of health and national regulatory authorities. 

• Identify relevant webinar content that addresses the interests and needs of the pharmacovigilance community.

• Work with an expert consultant to support network’s to improve the way they are marketing their services and using social media.

• Explore and implement new methods to strengthen peer-exchange and knowledge sharing among pharmacovigilance stakeholders.

• Other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Medicine, Public Health, or a related field.

• Master’s degree in a related field strongly preferred

• 5 years proven experience in pharmacovigilance or a related area.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong ability to create engaging content for digital platforms.

• Experience in organizing webinars and virtual events.

• Demonstrated ability to engage and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

• Proactive and creative mindset, with the ability to identify and implement innovative solutions

• Experience working with international health organizations or regulatory bodies.

• Familiarity with pharmacovigilance best practices and current trends.

Due to the nature of the project, Akros is limiting project staff members to those who have been vaccinated for Covid19 or those who are able to provide a valid medical exemption for Covid vaccination. This documentation will be required before commencing work. 

This position is contingent upon securing and maintaining program funding. It is also contingent upon donor approval. 

Location and Term 

Ideally, this position will be based in any of the supported member states in Eastern and Southern Africa. Remote candidates may be considered. The position will be for 18 months. 

Reporting 

This position reports directly to the Project Director, who will review and approve time records. 

Application Instructions 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply early. To apply, please submit a cover letter and CV with references to careers@akros.com with “Application: SLL Pharmacovigilance Network Manager” as the email’s subject line.