Dr. Elizabeth Sáenz is a senior medical professional and accomplished programme leader with over 20 years of experience within the United Nations system, specializing in drug policy, treatment of substance use disorders, public health, maternal and child health. A paediatrician by training with advanced postgraduate degrees in public health in developing countries, she combines technical expertise with strong strategic leadership and management capabilities.
Currently serving as Manager of the UNODC Global Programme on Access to Controlled Substances for Medical and Scientific Purposes, she provides strategic vision, leadership, and operational oversight to a complex global portfolio. She successfully led a major programme restructuring, introducing a three-pillar framework that enhanced coherence, efficiency, and impact across access, diversion prevention, and non-medical use. She manages multidisciplinary teams and delivers high-impact technical assistance to Member States, including policy development, capacity building, partnerships and stakeholder engagement, fundraising, and system-wide assessments.
Dr. Sáenz is recognized for her diplomatic approach, excellent communication skills, and ability to build trust and consensus across diverse stakeholders. A charismatic and engaging leader, she is known for her efficiency, professionalism, and strong sense of accountability. Her leadership is guided by firm values and a humane, empathetic approach to public health, ensuring that policies and programmes remain people-centred and equity-driven.
She has a strong track record in high-level inter-agency collaboration, having held key roles with UNODC, PAHO, and UNFPA. As UNODC Liaison Officer in Geneva, she played a pivotal role in advancing integrated approaches to drug demand reduction and strengthening strategic collaboration with WHO, including through joint global programmes. Her career reflects consistent delivery of impactful international initiatives, underpinned by strategic partnerships and results-oriented management.
