National Professional Officer (Health Systems and Services)

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 has a mission 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 primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, which includes addressing health systems, disease prevention, and health promotion.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Health Systems and Services) position at WHO Guinea Bissau Country Office is focused on supporting the Government in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of national health policies and strategies. The role involves collaborating with various stakeholders to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) and improve the quality of health services. The officer will be responsible for providing technical assistance in health policy development, planning, and management, particularly in the context of a decentralized health system. The position requires a strong emphasis on primary health care, capacity building, and effective engagement with non-state actors to strengthen the national health agenda.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support health policy development and health planning in the context of a decentralized health system, including technical consultations and coordination with various stakeholders and partners.
• Assist with regular reviews, assessments, and evaluations of health policies and plans, including the implementation of monitoring and evaluation frameworks for UHC and SDGs.
• Conduct networking and capacity building, building partnerships and playing a strong advocacy role.
• Provide technical assistance in the design, implementation, and monitoring/evaluation of health service delivery and management, focusing on primary health care.
• Assist the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) with effective engagement with non-state actors, including the private sector, in the national UHC agenda.
• Support MoPH in decision-making roles through capacity building for strengthening governance and performance of the health system.
• Plan, organize, and coordinate the organization's technical cooperation program in health services and primary health care.
• Provide technical support for the implementation of the National Action Plan for Anti-microbial Resistance (AMR) and Essential Medicines and Medical Products program.
• Support unit activities to maximize resource utilization. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by functional supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a first university degree in a health-related science and training in public health, community/family medicine, health systems/services administration, or health management from an accredited institution. Desirable qualifications include a postgraduate degree in public health or related fields. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills, policy development capabilities, and the ability to provide technical advice to stakeholders in health sector reform.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in a health-related science and training in public health or related fields. A postgraduate degree in public health or health systems/services administration is desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant work experience in policy development, planning, and management of health systems. Experience in an international context, particularly in health systems recovery and development, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in extending health care services to underserved populations and developing strategies to overcome barriers to accessing health care services.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of Portuguese. Intermediate knowledge of English and French is desirable, which would enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Guinea Bissau will be accepted. The remuneration comprises an annual base salary starting at XOF 21,352,000, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The position includes 30 days of annual leave. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women and persons with disabilities. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates will undergo background verification.