The Government of the Maldives has announced a vacancy for the position of Director General of the Maldivian Blood Services (MBS), inviting applications from qualified candidates.

This decision follows the need to align the appointment with the legal requirements set out in the Thalassaemia Act, which stipulates that the role must be filled by an individual with specific technical expertise through a defined legal procedure.

Previously, an interim Director General was appointed from within the Civil Service, with the intention of enhancing administrative management and improving the quality of services offered by the MBS. While this interim arrangement provided administrative continuity, it was not in full compliance with the Thalassaemia Act. Recognising this, the Government is now proceeding with the formal recruitment process to ensure that the appointment adheres to the provisions of the law.

The Director General will be responsible for overseeing the full scope of the Maldivian Blood Services in accordance with the policies of the Ministry of Health. The role includes developing and implementing national programmes for the control of thalassaemia, as well as setting standards and managing treatment systems for affected individuals, with a particular focus on children. In addition, the Director General will be tasked with planning and executing national initiatives addressing other inherited or congenital blood disorders, ensuring that adequate laboratory facilities are established and maintained sustainably across the country.

The successful candidate will work closely with relevant departments within the Ministry to ensure the efficient operation of the MBS and will be expected to foster collaboration with both national and international partners to strengthen thalassaemia control efforts. As part of the role, the Director General will prepare an annual report for the Minister, detailing progress on thalassaemia prevention and treatment, and contribute to broader Ministry policy objectives as the overall head of the Maldivian Blood Services.

Applications must be submitted via email to [email protected], and the deadline for submission is set at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025.