Operations Manager

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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

Job Overview:
The Operations Manager will lead an integrated operations function within the Country Management Support Units (CSUs) to provide comprehensive support to managers and staff. This role is crucial for ensuring compliance with organizational policies and regulations across all administrative and financial matters. The Operations Manager will oversee various operational aspects including finance, budgeting, procurement, human resources, information and communication technology (ICT), asset management, travel logistics, and program management. The position requires strategic management of financial resources, implementation of results-based budgeting, and ensuring compliance with procurement and contract management strategies. The Operations Manager will also be responsible for enhancing program delivery through risk-informed operational strategies, overseeing audits, and ensuring timely financial reporting to donors. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to navigate complex challenges while maintaining operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the integrated operations function by providing oversight and expert advice on finance, budget, procurement, human resources, ICT, assets, inventories, travel, logistics, and program management.
• Manage financial resources strategically, ensuring strong financial controls and adherence to financial policies and regulations.
• Implement a results-based budgeting approach, focusing on value for money.
• Oversee cash management processes, ensuring timely accounting and reconciliation of transactions.
• Ensure compliance with procurement rules and contract management strategies.
• Manage WHO assets and logistical services effectively.
• Support human resources policies and strategies, ensuring optimal staffing.
• Lead the administrative organization of conferences, workshops, and meetings.
• Advise the WHO Representative on operational cost-effectiveness and propose solutions to complex challenges. 1
• Develop and implement risk-informed operational strategies to improve program delivery. 1
• Oversee internal and external audits, ensuring implementation of recommendations and establishing internal controls. 1
• Set strategic direction for the operations team, including annual work plans and performance indicators. 1
• Ensure timely submission of financial reports to donors and coordinate with technical staff for accurate reporting. 1
• Lead operational support for emergency preparedness and response, including security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security updates for staff. 1
• Contribute to the development of new internal policies and procedures for financial management.

Required Qualifications:

• Essential: Master's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Financial Management, or related field, or Public Health.
• Desirable: Professional certification in accounting (CA, CPA, etc.).
• Essential: At least 10 years of professional experience in finance, budgeting, accounting, administration, program management, human resources management, procurement, and/or travel. Experience in advising senior management and managing diverse teams is crucial.
• Desirable: Professional certifications in finance, procurement, or HR, along with good knowledge of WHO program management and business processes.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Business Administration, Financial Management, or Public Health. A professional certification in accounting is desirable and will enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in relevant fields such as finance, budgeting, accounting, administration, program management, human resources management, procurement, and travel. Candidates should have experience in providing advice to senior management and managing diverse teams, ideally within the UN system or a public health context. Familiarity with project management principles and WHO's Global Management System is advantageous.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English and French is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 101,540, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment, annual leave, allowances for dependents, home leave, and education grants for children. The role is subject to WHO's Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO. The organization promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented member states. Mobility is a condition of employment, and candidates may be assigned to various duty stations globally.