Head of WHO Country Office

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 194 Member States across six regions, with a workforce of over 7,000 employees. WHO's European Region comprises 53 countries, serving a population of over 880 million people. The organization is committed to achieving the highest attainable standard of health for all individuals, emphasizing equity, solidarity, and participation in health matters.

Job Overview:
The Head of WHO Country Office will play a pivotal role in facilitating and coordinating WHO's activities within the country. This position requires a strategic approach to strengthen relationships with Member States, particularly the Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders. The Head will ensure that WHO's visibility is maintained and that activities are coordinated effectively with national and international partners. The role involves developing and implementing the country cooperation strategy and Biennial Collaborative Agreement, ensuring the quality and impact of WHO's work in the country. The Head will also oversee the operational direction of the office, manage day-to-day operations, and maintain contacts with local public institutions and media to promote WHO's work. This position is crucial for ensuring that WHO's technical work aligns with the health needs of the country and that effective partnerships are developed with external partners, including other UN agencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of WHO Country Office will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including: facilitating and coordinating all WHO country activities undertaken by technical units; supporting the strengthening of WHO EURO's relations with Member States; ensuring WHO visibility and coordination of activities with stakeholders; developing and monitoring the country work plan; implementing the country cooperation strategy and Biennial Collaborative Agreement; overseeing the operational direction and coordination of WHO activities at the country level; assisting in the preparation and management of policy and technical events; ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of the office; maintaining contacts with local public institutions and media; linking with health institutions and associations; facilitating technical assistance for health sector development; liaising with national health authorities; contributing to situational analysis and health needs assessments; certifying the implementation of tasks under WHO financing; developing partnerships with external partners; and helping the government identify and coordinate external resources.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in medicine, health-related areas, or social sciences. A Master's degree in public health and/or health management is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least 5 years of relevant experience at the national level in managing health programs. Experience within a UN organization and project management is also desirable. Candidates should have sound knowledge of the socio-political, economic, and health situation in the country, along with competencies in building partnerships, producing results, adapting to change, communication, teamwork, and creating a motivating environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in medicine, health-related fields, or social sciences. A Master's degree in public health or health management is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience at the national level in managing health programs. This experience should ideally include work within a UN organization and familiarity with project management, which will be beneficial for the responsibilities associated with the Head of WHO Country Office.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory, along with expert knowledge of the local language. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a National Professional Officer position, meaning only applications from nationals of Slovenia will be accepted. The remuneration for this position includes an annual base salary starting at EUR 68,268, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The position offers 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates will undergo a background verification process, and the organization maintains a smoke-free environment. The successful candidate must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment.