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. It operates in 194 Member States across six regions, with a workforce of over 7,000 employees. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, aiming to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The Head of WHO Country Office plays a crucial role in facilitating and coordinating WHO's activities at the country level. This position involves supporting the WHO Regional Office for Europe in strengthening relationships with Member States, ensuring visibility and coordination of WHO activities, and developing country work plans. The Head will also be responsible for the operational direction of the office, managing day-to-day operations, and maintaining contacts with local public institutions and stakeholders. The role requires a deep understanding of the socio-political and health landscape of the country, as well as the ability to advocate for public health initiatives and manage technical assistance for health sector development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of WHO Country Office will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: facilitating and coordinating all WHO country activities undertaken by technical units; supporting the Regional Office in strengthening relations with Member States; ensuring WHO visibility and coordination with national and international stakeholders; developing and monitoring country work plans; assisting in the preparation and management of policy and technical events; ensuring smooth operations of the office, including managerial, financial, administrative, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues; maintaining contacts with local public institutions and media; linking with health institutions and associations; providing technical assistance for health sector development; liaising with national health authorities; updating situational analyses and health needs; 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 or health management is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least five 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 demonstrate sound knowledge of the socio-political, economic, and health situation in the country, along with WHO competencies such as 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 preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise in public health issues and management practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience at the national level in managing health programs. This experience should ideally include work within a UN organization and involvement in project management, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex health systems and collaborate with various stakeholders effectively.

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

Additional Notes:
This is a National Professional Officer position, meaning only applications from nationals of the Czech Republic will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at CZK 1,858,796, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 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 may be required to undergo a written test or video assessment as part of the selection process. The WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. Additionally, candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking any assignment.