The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) is a United Nations-backed public health organisation working to increase access to, and facilitate the development of, life-saving medicines for low- and middle-income countries. Through its innovative business model, MPP partners with civil society, governments, international organisations, industry, patient groups, and other stakeholders, to prioritise and license needed medicines and pool intellectual property to encourage generic manufacture and the development of new formulations. MPP was founded by Unitaid, which continues to be MPP’s main funder. MPP’s work is also funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the French Government, the German Government, the Japanese Government, the Government of Canada, and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
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The Governance Board is the supreme governing body of the Foundation and possesses the highest and most extensive authority concerning decision-making and administration of the Foundation. In particular, the Governance Board:
More information on the roles and responsibilities of the Governance Board and its procedures is available in the Statutes and in the By-laws of MPP at https://medicinespatentpool.org/who-we-are/statutes-by-laws-policies
In addition to the skills associated with the core responsibilities to be performed by the Governance Board collectively, MPP is seeking a global health expert with a high-level network spanning government, international organisations, and global forums addressing access to medicines. This role involves leveraging these connections and professional platforms to advocate for MPP’s mission, providing strategic insights, and supporting collaborations with key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in global health, public policy, and international development, combined with strong strategic thinking skills. A good understanding of MPP’s model and commitment to its mission of improving access to affordable and appropriate essential medicines in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are essential to contributing effectively to the Governance Board.
Governance Board members serve in their personal capacity and appointments are made in accordance with article 7.2 of the MPP’s Statutes. Board members have to abide by MPP general policies. More on MPP policies: https://medicinespatentpool.org/who-we-are/statutes-by-laws-policies/
Board members serve a three-year term renewable twice. The work of the Governance Board is supported by four sub-committees and Board members are generally asked to serve on two committees each. Committees usually meet virtually twice a year ahead of Board meetings for approximately 1-2 hours. Board meetings are normally convened twice a year. The May Board meeting usually takes place face-to-face (all expenses paid) while the November Board meeting takes place virtually. Teleconferences may be organised in between, as required.
To apply please send your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience, expertise and interest in joining the Board to recruitment@medicinespatentpool.org with the subject “Governance Board candidate nomination”
We encourage interested candidates to apply at their earliest convenience, as we will be considering applications on an ongoing basis. You may also suggest someone in writing to the same email address and using the same subject line.
A list of suitable candidates will be compiled by the MPP Management and reviewed by the Governance committee in the first instance. Interviews will take place before a Board decision can be made.
MPP is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity on its Board.
Press and Media
The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) is a United Nations-backed public health organisation working to increase access to and facilitate the development of life-saving medicines for low- and middle-income countries. Through its innovative business model, MPP partners with civil society, governments, international organisations, industry, patient groups, and other stakeholders to prioritise and license needed medicines and pool intellectual property to encourage generic manufacture and the development of new formulations.
To date, MPP has signed agreements with 22 patent holders for 13 HIV antiretrovirals, one HIV technology platform, three hepatitis C direct-acting antivirals, a tuberculosis treatment, a cancer treatment, four long-acting technologies, a post-partum haemorrhage medicine, three oral antiviral treatments for COVID-19 and 16 COVID-19 technologies.
MPP was founded by Unitaid, which continues to be MPP’s main funder. MPP’s work on access to essential medicines is also funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Government of Canada, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the Government of Flanders. MPP’s activities in COVID-19 are undertaken with the financial support of the Japanese Government, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the German Agency for International Cooperation, and SDC.