Nutrition Referent

CONTEXT The medical department of MSF Belgium (OCB - Operational Center Brussels) plays a strategic role by defining the modalities of implementation of MSF’s medical strategy in order to ensure coherence and quality. Strategical support is provided throughout the phases of the project cycle. It has a normative role and technical support role in the implementation and follow-up of the projects. The medical department ensures the transfer of knowledge to the medical workforce and stimulates research and innovation by challenging current medical practices and exploring of new approaches.It is composed of several specialists based in 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 the MSF movement. We also support the projects of MSF West and Central Africa (WACA).Nutrition is a core MSF activity, with response to nutritional crises as an operational priority. This transversal topic encompasses care for malnourished children and adults, including pregnant and lactating women, as well as those at high risk of malnutrition (chronically ill, burns, ICU, and surgical patients). We will also keep putting focus on community-based and integrated approaches of nutrition support, seeking innovative ways to reach populations in need while continuously improving food security monitoring and nutrition surveillance systems.The Nutrition Referent serves as a technical expert on nutrition care across all contexts and populations, covering acute malnutrition treatment, preventive interventions, and clinical nutrition support to ensure the effectiveness and quality of our nutritional interventions. This position provides technical and strategic support to medical staff in operational cells, emergency pools, and project teams through expert advice, tool development, guideline creation, and project visits.As Nutrition Referent, you will collaborate closely with pediatrics, nursing, health promotion, environmental health, and mental health referents, as well as critical care, infectious diseases, sexual and reproductive health (SRH), hospital management, pharmacy, epidemiology, and E-health teams. The role includes line management, coaching, and support of Nutrition Mobile Implementation Officers, and collaboration across Operations, Analysis, Human Resources, and Supply departments, with active participation in the inter-sectional MSF Nutrition platform.MAIN RESPONSABILITIESSee full description on the vacancy page.REQUIREMENTSEducation and experienceBachelor’s degree in nutrition & dietetics / or a medical/paramedical degree with certification in nutritionMinimum of 4 years’ experience in nutrition care and programming, of which at least 2 years of international experience in humanitarian contexts with MSF or a similar NGO.Experience in management of malnutrition in children under 5 years and strategic design of nutrition interventions (inpatient & outpatient settings) is essentialClinical nutrition experience is essential (experience in ICU, advanced HIV, TB, burns and surgical nutrition care is an asset)Experience in SMART nutrition surveys is a strong assetExperience in BFHI, IYCF and lactation management is an assetExperience in hospital food service management is an assetExperience in nutrition and food security analysis is an assetExperience in community health and outreach activities is an assetCompetenciesExpertise in nutrition careStrong people management skills; ability and motivation to train project staffProactive and confident in taking initiative and making decisionsStrong technical expertise and strategic thinkingExcellent communication skills; comfortable with public speakingWell-organized, with strong prioritization and summarization abilitiesSolid writing skills; able to analyze and synthesize complex informationStrong interpersonal skills; team player, dynamic, and diplomaticAutonomous and adaptableAble to work effectively across multiple departments and with diverse stakeholdersCapable of working in challenging and complex operational contextsLanguagesProficiency in English, both written & spoken is mandatoryGood knowledge of French is requiredOther international languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic) are an assetOtherAvailability to carry out project visits in all MSF-relevant contextsCONDITIONSExpected starting date: As soon as possibleLocation**: Brussels (Belgium), or Abidjan (Ivory Coast), or Nairobi (Kenya)**The final outcome depends on the residency of the candidate, the local legal limitations (residency, work permit, etc.) and on agreement with the hosting MSF entity of these locationsMobility: 30% MSF projects visits /yearContract type and duration: Open-ended contract – full-timeThe contractual terms and conditions will be established according to the place of work, legal constraints and in respect of MSF standard function and salary gridsAdhere to the MSF principles and to our managerial values: Respect, Transparency, Integrity, Accountability, Trust and EmpowermentAdhere to the MSF Behavioral CommitmentsDeadline for applications: 10th of November 2025How 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 positionIt should take 5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you in advance for having your CV and motivation letter in English or in French ready to upload (preferably in PDF format).Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.MSF values diversity and is committed to create 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.The protection of your personal data is important to MSF. By submitting your application, you consent to MSF using your personal data. For more information, consult our privacy notice to job applicants.