Director of the Department of Health

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Established in 1949, UNRWA's mission is to provide assistance and protection for Palestine refugees, ensuring their rights and improving their living conditions. The organization operates in five fields: Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. UNRWA employs over 30,000 staff members and is dedicated to delivering education, health care, social services, and emergency assistance to Palestine refugees, striving to promote their well-being and dignity.

Job Overview:
The position of Director of the Department of Health at UNRWA is pivotal in leading the Health Programme aimed at improving the health status of Palestine refugees. The role involves providing authoritative leadership, policy direction, and technical guidance for the effective management of health services across five operational fields. The Director is expected to ensure that health services are evidence-based, results-oriented, and aligned with WHO norms and standards. This includes fostering innovation, mobilizing resources, strengthening health systems, and expanding integrated mental health services. The Director will also coordinate with host governments, donors, and partners to address the evolving health needs of Palestine refugees, particularly in complex and often insecure environments. The immediate strategic objective is to enhance the quality and accessibility of health care services, reduce mortality rates, and improve overall health outcomes for the refugee population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a comprehensive set of duties, including directing the Health Programme to improve the health status of Palestine refugees, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring compliance with UNRWA regulations. The Director will assess major policy issues, plan and direct technical operations, develop cooperative activities with UN agencies, and lead emergency preparedness initiatives. Responsibilities also include overseeing the integration of mental health services, managing digital health transformation, ensuring the availability of essential medicines, and developing workforce strategies. The Director will advise the Commissioner-General, represent UNRWA at international meetings, monitor health situations, and liaise with health authorities and donors to advocate for the health rights of Palestine refugees.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a medical degree (MD) from a recognized university, along with a master's degree in public health or related sub-specialties. Essential qualifications include at least 15 years of professional and managerial experience in national health programme planning and implementation, with a minimum of 10 years in senior decision-making roles at the international level. Knowledge of preventive and curative medicine, nutrition, environmental health, and WHO policies is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate a broad strategic vision, high-level diplomatic skills, and the ability to inspire and lead innovation in health programmes. Effective communication skills and the ability to work in a multicultural environment are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a medical degree (MD) from a recognized institution, complemented by a master's degree in public health or relevant sub-specialties. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of health care delivery and public health administration, particularly in the context of refugee health services.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically at least 15 years in professional and managerial roles related to health programme planning and implementation. Of this, a minimum of 10 years must be in public health administration and planning at senior decision-making levels, ideally within international organizations. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing health programmes, developing policies, and leading teams in complex health environments.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is essential for this position. Knowledge of Arabic, French, or other UN languages is desirable, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and contributes to effective program implementation in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and is part of the international professional employment category. The remuneration includes an annual base salary starting at USD 128,422, with additional benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependents, and an education grant for children. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all staff members are expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. Mobility is a condition of employment, and candidates may be assigned to various duty stations worldwide.