Director of Internal Oversight 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's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees across more than 150 countries, WHO operates in various regions to address global health challenges and improve health outcomes worldwide. The organization focuses on a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response.

Job Overview:
The Director of Internal Oversight Services will provide strategic leadership and direction to the integrated internal oversight function of WHO. This role is crucial in ensuring alignment with the Organization's IOS Charter, strategic priorities, and operational independence. The Director will lead the development and coordination of a risk-based program of internal audit, investigations, and evaluations across all WHO entities, including IARC and UNAIDS. The position requires a strong focus on enhancing accountability, transparency, and organizational effectiveness through evidence-informed decision-making and robust performance management practices. The Director will also be responsible for managing human and financial resources, ensuring a high-performing team, and fostering a culture of integrity and continuous improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the internal oversight function, ensuring alignment with WHO's strategic priorities.
• Articulate a clear departmental vision and operationalize it through performance management practices.
• Lead the development and coordination of risk-based internal audit, investigations, and evaluations across WHO entities.
• Provide senior-level technical advice to management on internal oversight matters.
• Manage the implementation of biennial work plans and ensure compliance with professional standards.
• Oversee the implementation of WHO's Framework for strengthening evaluation and organizational learning.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of WHO's risk management and governance systems, recommending remedial actions.
• Lead investigations into allegations of misconduct and ensure adherence to professional standards.
• Prepare evidence-based reports and recommendations for senior management. 1
• Promote the use of internal oversight findings to enhance policy and program performance. 1
• Provide advisory services on governance, risk, and control issues. 1
• Represent WHO in inter-agency internal oversight forums and collaborate with other UN oversight bodies. 1
• Communicate internal oversight results to stakeholders to build trust and transparency. 1
• Uphold compliance with ethical codes and maintain operational independence. 1
• Foster cross-departmental collaboration to maximize organizational impact.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in law, business/public administration, or a related field relevant to the position.
• Professional certifications such as CPA, CIA, CFE, or equivalent in audit, investigation, evaluation are desirable.
• A PhD in a relevant field is also desirable.
• Additional training in public health or international development is a plus.
• Strong skills in developing internal oversight policies and strategies are essential.
• Excellent management skills for diverse teams and financial resources are required.
• Strong negotiation, facilitation, and presentation skills are necessary for effective communication with stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in law, business/public administration, or a related field relevant to the functions of the position. Desirable qualifications include professional certifications such as CPA, CIA, CFE, or equivalent in audit, investigation, evaluation, and a PhD in one of the aforementioned fields. Additional training in public health or international development is also considered beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in the management of audit, investigation, and evaluation. This includes experience providing senior-level advice to management, managing human and financial resources, and developing policies and strategies. Demonstrated experience at the international level is essential, while experience in legal oversight roles within large organizations and the UN system is desirable. Familiarity with oversight information systems in developing countries is also a plus.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and other UN languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to a single term limit of up to a maximum of 7 years, with no right of employment in another function within WHO. Staff members separated due to the 2025 Prioritization and Realignment Process will receive special consideration. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or asynchronous video assessment may be used for screening. Candidates must provide scanned copies of required degrees and certifications. WHO values diversity and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization is committed to creating a safe and respectful workplace, with zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse. Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO, and candidates may be assigned to any duty station worldwide. WHO offers a range of benefits, including parental leave and flexible work arrangements.