Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to addressing the most pressing development challenges faced by countries around the world. Established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the World Bank Group has grown to encompass 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices globally. The organization provides funding, knowledge, and expertise to developing nations, focusing on sustainable development and innovative solutions to complex issues. The World Bank Group's commitment to improving lives is evident in its extensive projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing economic growth, reducing inequality, and fostering resilience against global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Health Specialist position at the World Bank Group in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a critical role aimed at supporting the health sector's development in the country. The selected candidate will be responsible for leading and contributing to high-quality analytical and advisory services that focus on health service delivery, primary care, elder care, and health financing. The role requires a deep understanding of the health sector's challenges in Sri Lanka, particularly in the context of ongoing projects such as the Primary Healthcare System Enhancing Project and initiatives aimed at improving maternal and early childhood nutrition. The Health Specialist will engage in policy dialogue with senior government officials and collaborate with various stakeholders to advance health reforms and enhance service delivery. This position is integral to the World Bank's mission of improving health outcomes and building human capital in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the population is well-equipped for future challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading high-quality analytical and advisory services related to health service delivery and financing; supervising ongoing lending projects and preparing new initiatives in accordance with World Bank policies; engaging in policy dialogue with government counterparts at senior levels; coordinating with the Project Management Unit to ensure effective project implementation; collaborating with development partners and stakeholders in the health sector; mentoring junior colleagues and participating in capacity-building activities; preparing briefing materials and reports for corporate requirements; and working across the World Bank Group to align efforts and maximize impact on health outcomes in Sri Lanka.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in medicine, health economics, public health, public administration, or a related field, with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience. A PhD in these areas is preferred and would provide additional depth to the role. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record in leading complex analytics and translating findings into actionable outputs, as well as the ability to engage in high-level policy discussions with government officials. Strong collaborative skills are essential for working with development partners and stakeholders, and experience in project management, particularly with World Bank financing projects, is highly desirable. In-depth knowledge of health service delivery reforms relevant to Sri Lanka's challenges is crucial, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in relevant fields such as medicine, health economics, public health, or public administration. Candidates with a PhD in these disciplines will be given preference, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex health issues. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in health systems, policy analysis, and economic evaluation, which are critical for the role of Health Specialist.

Experience:
The position requires at least 8 years of relevant experience in the health sector, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of leading complex analytical projects and engaging in policy dialogue with senior government officials. Experience in project management, especially related to World Bank loan or grant financing, is essential. The ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and civil society, is also a key requirement for this role.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group and with external stakeholders. Additionally, proficiency in Sinhala is preferred, as it would facilitate better engagement with local partners and government officials in Sri Lanka. Knowledge of other languages relevant to the region may also be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and involves significant collaboration with various stakeholders in the health sector. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.