National Professional Officer (Disability Inclusive Health)

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the commitment to leave no one behind in health initiatives. The WHO Country Office in Ukraine plays a crucial role in coordinating health efforts and implementing strategies that align with national health policies and international best practices.

Job Overview:
The position of National Professional Officer (Disability Inclusive Health) is pivotal in leading the implementation of WHO's disability inclusive health program in Ukraine. The incumbent will provide essential policy and technical advice to the Government of Ukraine, focusing on the development and strengthening of barrier-free legislation and its execution at both national and regional levels. This role emphasizes the importance of elevating the voices of persons with disabilities and ensuring their meaningful participation in policy-making processes. The successful candidate will work closely with various stakeholders, including government entities, non-governmental organizations, and civil society actors, to foster a cohesive approach that aligns with Ukrainian legislation and health sector strategies. The overarching goal is to promote health equity and ensure that health services are accessible to all, particularly marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Professional Officer will undertake a variety of key duties, including:

• Assisting the Unit Lead in the effective implementation of WHO activities related to health and social care programs, particularly those outlined in the Biannual Collaborative Agreement (BCA).
• Collaborating with partners to develop and implement research initiatives focused on social care and disability inclusive health services, while also contributing to resource mobilization efforts.
• Organizing training activities for primary health care facilities, social workers, and other relevant groups on assistive living supports.
• Coordinating with key stakeholders in Ukraine to reduce health inequities and promote universal health coverage for persons with disabilities through various initiatives.
• Assisting in the production of reports for donors and other stakeholders regarding WHO programs.
• Collecting and analyzing information to prepare timely materials, reports, and situation analyses related to disability and community health needs.
• Collaborating with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) to develop local initiatives aimed at reducing health inequities.
• Supporting the Unit Lead in managing WHO presence and missions in Ukraine, ensuring follow-up on recommendations.
• Generating evidence for regional and national audiences regarding the future care needs for chronic and long-term disability. 1
• Providing methodological support through analytical studies to develop country-specific evidence on disability inclusive health. 1
• Representing WHO in relevant working groups and results-oriented groups. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a First-level University Degree in social sciences, political science, international development, or a related field. An advanced university degree in these areas or relevant advanced training certificates is desirable. Essential qualifications include a minimum of one year of experience in health system strengthening, particularly focusing on persons with disabilities and supporting organizations that advocate for their rights. Experience in health systems strengthening, community services for persons with disabilities, and policy advocacy is also essential. Desirable qualifications include experience working with the Government of Ukraine on disability policy, representing the rights of persons with disabilities, and familiarity with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a First-level University Degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, political science, or international development. An advanced degree in these areas is preferred, along with any relevant advanced training certificates that enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in health system strengthening, particularly with a focus on persons with disabilities. Candidates should have experience working with Ukrainian organizations that advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities and should be familiar with community services for individuals with disabilities. Desirable experience includes supporting government policy directions related to disability, advocating for disability rights, and working with WHO or other UN agencies on health policy implementation.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Ukrainian is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of another official WHO language is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the organization and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Ukraine will be considered. The WHO offers an attractive remuneration package, including an annual net base salary starting at USD 29,688, subject to mandatory deductions. The position includes 30 days of annual leave. Additional notes include the possibility of using this vacancy notice to fill other similar positions at the same grade level, and candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for further assessment, which may include a written test or video assessment. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards abusive conduct.