Expert support for One Health surveillance, preparedness and health system resilience strengthening

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. It operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO works with countries to improve health systems, respond to health emergencies, and promote health and well-being for all.

Job Overview:
The position of Expert support for One Health surveillance, preparedness and health system resilience strengthening is crucial for coordinating and providing technical support for selected Pandemic Fund activities under the WHO–FAO UN-to-UN Agreement. The focus will be on the National One Health Surveillance Strategy for genomics and zoonoses, including the development of related Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and an Action Plan. The expert will also facilitate a Joint One Health Outbreak Simulation Exercise, ensuring that the activities align with broader health system resilience initiatives. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of health systems and the ability to apply a cross-cutting health systems perspective to strengthen national capacities for prevention, preparedness, and response to health emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the expert include: A. Development of the National One Health Surveillance Strategy for Genomics and Zoonoses, which involves coordinating the development of the strategy, facilitating the work of a national multisectoral Working Group, reviewing relevant legislation and policies, organizing technical meetings and consultations, and maintaining project documentation. B. Support to Joint One Health Outbreak Simulation Exercises, which includes planning and implementing a Joint One Health Tabletop Exercise, facilitating the SimEx Planning Team, organizing preparatory meetings, and coordinating the After-Action Review. C. Monitoring, Reporting and Knowledge Management, which involves developing project monitoring tools, preparing periodic reports for WHO and FAO, and supporting dissemination of project outputs. D. Cross-cutting Support to Health System Resilience, which includes supporting linkages between Pandemic Fund activities and health system resilience priorities, reviewing relevant legislation, and documenting recommendations for national health system strengthening processes.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a university degree in law, health policy, public health, or a related field. A Master’s degree is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of national experience in health systems, public health, program implementation, digitalization, immunization, and legislation and policy development. Experience working with WHO or another international organization in public health is an advantage. Strong collaboration and communication skills, analytical abilities, excellent report-writing skills, and project management skills are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, health policy, public health, or a related field. A Master’s degree is considered an asset and would enhance the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant national experience in health systems, public health, program implementation, digitalization, immunization, and legislation and policy development. Experience with WHO or other international organizations in public health is highly desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with international health standards and practices.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English and Macedonian is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The expert will work full-time at the WHO Country Office in Skopje. The remuneration for this position is approximately MKD 190,669 per month, excluding travel costs. This vacancy notice may also be used to identify candidates for other similar special services agreements at the same level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as a form of screening. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their degrees/diplomas/certificates as required for this position. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates must adhere to the highest ethical standards.