Call for Expressions of Interest
Oversight Committee to the WHO FCTC Investment Fund
Deadline: 31 October 2022
CONTEXT
The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) is seeking candidates to serve in a pro bono advisory role on an Oversight Committee to the WHO FCTC Investment Fund for a three-year term commencing in the third quarter of 2022.
In November 2021 the governing body of the WHO FCTC authorized the launch of an innovative multimillion-dollar investment fund, the earned interest from which will help support global tobacco control efforts.
Tobacco costs the global economy US$ 1.4 trillion each year and is one of the world's largest preventable causes of premature death, accounting for more than 8 million deaths per year. The total economic costs associated with smoking represent 1.8% of global GDP, and smoking-attributable health expenditure represents 5.7% of total health spending.
The WHO FCTC, the first international treaty negotiated under the auspices of WHO, was adopted in 2005 by countries in response to the globalization of the tobacco epidemic. It has since become one of the most rapidly and widely embraced treaties within the United Nations.
THE FUND
The Fund lays a foundation for the financial stability needed for future implementation of the WHO FCTC. The Investment Fund, managed by the World Bank, will complement existing revenue received from countries through their Assessed Contributions and discretionary project-based funding.
This new initiative will source financial contributions beyond the traditional health sector, establishing a US$ 50 million capital investment, the earned revenue of which will be used to support the global implementation of the WHO FCTC.
Recognizing the unique skills required to manage and sustain the Funds, the governing body of the WHO FCTC is seeking the guidance of an Oversight Committee, comprised of experts in global financial and investment management to help guide the WHO FCTC Fund’s strategic and investment policies.
The Oversight Committee will consist of 12 members from around the world, serving in a pro bono capacity to provide independent expert advice to help shape the emerging and strategic direction of this innovative Investment Fund.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We are seeking global leaders with extensive experience in shaping investment strategies; specifically strategic thinkers in global investment and fund management strategies with experience in any of the following areas: investment strategy; asset allocation and diversification; risk management; investment performance measurement; and in-depth understanding of macroeconomic and financial sector capital, including global markets and governance oversight.
Committee members are asked to commit to make time available to effectively and efficiently fulfil their role as an Oversight Committee member. This will entail preparing for and attending semi-annual virtual meetings and the formulation of recommendations, opinions and analysis supporting the direction of the Investment Fund.
The role of the Oversight Committee member, serving in a pro bono capacity, is to act as an adviser who will act in the best interests of the WHO FCTC, with integrity and commitment.
Detailed Terms of Reference and background information for the Oversight Committee of the WHO FCTC Investment Fund is available here.
Process for Expressing Interest in the Oversight Committee for the WHO FCTC Investment Fund
Interested individuals are requested to send their expression of interest to the following email address: fctcsecretariat@who.int by 31 October 2022.
Expressions of interest should describe:
- Short biography (a CV can be annexed);
- Motivation and interest in being a member of the Oversight Committee;
- Expertise and capacity to support the strategic and financial objectives of the Investment Fund;
- Clearly stated contact details, nationality and current country of residence.
The Selection Process
The selection will be based on an open, transparent process. The review and processing of the Expressions of Interest will be the Secretariat of the WHO FCTC.
A prioritized shortlist of nominees meeting the criteria will be submitted for consideration of the selection committee, comprised of the President and Vice-President of the governing body of the WHO FCTC, and its Head of the Secretariat. The selection committee will also consider the need for a mix of expertise and to seek an inclusive and diverse membership across WHO Regions.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to help guide and direct the implementation of the WHO FCTC Investment Fund, a pivotal role in the financial sustainability of the implementation of the WHO FCTC.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email inquiries to fctcsecretariat@who.int.