Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is the country’s leading producer of raw, refined and specialty sugars; employing more than 9000 employees. Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is part of Illovo Sugar Africa Group; a wholly-owned subsidiary of Associated British Foods plc (ABF).
Job Summary
- Employer: Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-10-21
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and assess public health trends, develop strategies and policies to improve the health of the community, and respond to public health emergencies.
- Contribute to delivering a range of public and environmental health services that aim to protect and promote health, prevent the incidence of infectious diseases, safeguard the environment and enhance quality of life in the community.
- Continue routine, independent water and sanitation quality surveillance both in households and across communities to protect public health through good hygiene
- Enforce business and community compliance to the country’s Public Health Act &Conduct Health Education in the community
- Manage all public health activities as required and mandated by the Business and the Ministry of Health
- Manage medical waste disposal at the hospitals and clinics
- Monitor and regulate solid and liquid waste management actions and processes from inception to final disposal ensuring waste-related laws, technologies and economic mechanisms are followed.
- Participate in the creation and control of the Public Health Budget for efficient service provision.
- Promote and adhere to Illovo’s procedures, policies and guidelines, including, without limitation, those relating to SHERQ, Competition Law and Anti-Bribery and Corruption (ABC)
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Community Health or related field
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Private/Public Sector.
- Full registration and valid practicing license with the Country Health Professional governing body
- Knowledge of public health principles and practices, particularly disease mitigation and response strategies, including contract tracing
- Able to work independently, make decisions and solve problems.
- Ability to communicate in a credible and effective manner
- Driver’s License is compulsory
- Excellent interpersonal and community skills, team leadership qualities, good communications skills, good temperaments.
How to Apply
Apply by email: nchalo hr@illovo.co.za
Address: The HR Mill Head, Illovo Sugar (Malawi) Plc, Private Bag 50, Blantyre
Address: The HR Mill Head, Illovo Sugar (Malawi) Plc, Private Bag 50, Blantyre
About the Company
Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is a key player in Malawi's agricultural and industrial landscape, primarily engaged in sugar production. This prominent Malawian company maintains a public listing on the Malawi Stock Exchange. The majority of its issued share capital, precisely 76%, is held by the Illovo Group, a significant entity in the African sugar sector. The remaining shares are accessible to the public, fostering local investment and broader participation in the company's operations within Malawi.
Malawi's key producer of sugar, listed on the local exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Public Health Officer at a company like Illovo Sugar in Malawi?
You typically need a Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, or a related health science field from a recognized Malawian university such as the University of Malawi or Mzuzu University. Registration with the Medical Council of Malawi or relevant professional body is usually required. Some employers prefer candidates with 2-3 years of experience in occupational health or community health settings.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Public Health Officer in a Malawian corporate setting?
You will conduct health risk assessments, monitor workplace sanitation and hygiene standards, and implement disease prevention programs for employees and surrounding communities. You will also prepare health reports for management, coordinate with local health authorities, and respond to public health emergencies. Community engagement and health education outreach are often significant parts of the role.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for Public Health Officers in Malawi compared to government positions?
Corporate employers like Illovo Sugar typically expect faster turnaround on reports, stronger data management skills, and direct accountability to business objectives alongside community welfare. You will likely work more closely with management and may have less job security than civil service roles but often better resources and infrastructure. Punctuality, professional documentation, and ability to work independently are highly valued.
What career progression opportunities exist for Public Health Officers in Malawi's private sector?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Public Health Officer, Occupational Health Manager, or Corporate Social Responsibility roles focusing on community health programs. Some professionals transition into regional positions with multinational companies operating across Southern Africa. Further specialization in occupational medicine or a Master's degree can open doors to consultancy or policy advisory roles.
What benefits should I expect when working as a Public Health Officer for a large employer in Malawi?
Large employers typically offer medical aid coverage, pension contributions compliant with Malawi's pension regulations, and annual leave entitlements that meet or exceed statutory minimums. You may also receive housing or transport allowances, performance bonuses, and opportunities for professional development training. Specific benefits vary by employer and are usually detailed in your employment contract.
How do I apply for Public Health Officer positions in Malawi, and what do employers look for during selection?
Apply through company websites, job portals like Jobs in Malawi, or by submitting your CV and cover letter directly to human resources departments. Employers look for demonstrated experience in health program implementation, strong communication skills in English and Chichewa, and evidence of community engagement. Prepare for interviews that assess both technical knowledge and your understanding of local health challenges in the employer's operational area.