Operations Officer

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 primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, which includes addressing health emergencies, promoting universal health coverage, and advancing health equity.

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer position is crucial for the coordination of administrative and support services within the WHO Country Management Support Unit. The role involves ensuring compliance with organizational policies and procedures in all administrative and financial matters. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the WHO Representative and will coordinate activities across various functional areas, including cash management, procurement, human resources, and program management. This position requires a proactive approach to support technical staff in financial reporting and liaising with government partners to ensure timely and accurate reporting on funds. The Operations Officer will also prepare management reports and act as a focal point for audits, making this role integral to the effective functioning of the WHO's operations in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will oversee a team that performs functions based on the end-to-end processes designed in the Global Management System (GSM). Key responsibilities include coordinating cash management and payments, managing procurement and assets, overseeing travel and meetings, and handling human resources management. The Operations Officer will support technical staff in providing financial reports to donors and liaise with government partners to ensure accurate reporting on funds advanced under various cooperation mechanisms. Additionally, the role involves preparing regular management reports on the implementation of workplans and contributing to statutory reports, while also serving as the focal point for internal and external audits.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of WHO's Results-Based Management framework and related business processes. Knowledge of Oracle projects and financial systems is essential, along with a sound understanding of organizational policies and project management principles. The ability to act independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain excellent interpersonal relations is crucial. Strong organizational and analytical skills, combined with effective communication abilities, are also required for this role.

Educational Background:
A university first degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Financial Management, or a related field is essential. An advanced university degree (Master's) in a relevant field is desirable, along with professional certification in accounting (such as CA or CPA) and project management certification.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience with a focus on program management, finance, budgeting, human resources management, procurement, and travel. Experience in project management, particularly within the UN system or public health context, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the GSM system or similar ERP systems and experience in staff training on management information systems will be advantageous.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English or French is essential, with at least a working knowledge of English. Proficiency in Portuguese or expert knowledge of Spanish or Italian is also required. Additional proficiency in a second UN language is desirable.

Additional Notes:
This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. Candidates selected for an interview will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications. WHO emphasizes the importance of recruiting staff on a wide geographical basis and is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates must adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional ethics. Mobility is a condition of 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 to promote a healthy work-life balance.