Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health and Migration

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, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working to combat diseases, improve health systems, and respond to health emergencies. The organization focuses on a wide range of health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and environmental health, among others.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health and Migration (ECO) will play a pivotal role in advancing the WHO's mission to reduce the global disease burden caused by unhealthy environments. This position requires a visionary leader who can articulate a clear departmental vision aligned with WHO's organizational strategy. The Director will be responsible for providing scientific, technical, and policy expertise to Member States and stakeholders, ensuring the development and implementation of effective national and global health policies. The role involves managing a diverse workforce and financial resources to optimize departmental deliverables, fostering collaboration across various departments and divisions, and integrating technological and scientific advances into the department's work. The Director will also lead efforts to establish evidence-based policies and guidelines, monitor and evaluate departmental performance, and build strong partnerships with external stakeholders to enhance the impact of WHO's initiatives in climate and health.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will lead the implementation of WHO guidelines on Climate and Health, Migration, Air Quality, Water Safety, Environmental Health, and One Health. Responsibilities include supporting countries in applying WHO environmental and climate-health guidelines, monitoring climate and health indicators, coordinating with UN agencies to advance pollution control, and establishing early warning systems for climate-related health issues. The Director will also facilitate research and innovation on emerging climate risks, drive advocacy for resource mobilization, and represent WHO in global forums to position the organization as a leader in Climate and Health. Additionally, the Director will oversee the development of key performance indicators and global reporting mechanisms to ensure optimal departmental performance and will perform all other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters level or above) in public health, medicine, climate and health, epidemiology, environmental sciences, or a related field. Specialized training and extensive leadership experience in Environmental Health, Climate and Health, and/or One Health are essential. A PhD in a relevant field is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in managing Climate, Environment, and Health Programs, providing senior-level advice to management, and managing large teams and financial resources. Experience in analyzing scientific evidence for policy development and collaboration with governments and various partners is also required. Experience in One Health and Migration is a strong asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters level or above) in public health, medicine, climate and health, epidemiology, environmental sciences, or a related field is essential. Specialized training, additional qualifications, and extensive leadership experience in relevant areas are also required. A PhD in one of the mentioned fields is desirable and would enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of professional experience in managing Climate, Environment, and Health Programs. This includes experience in providing leadership and senior-level advice to decision-makers, managing diverse teams, and mobilizing financial resources. Experience at the international level working with governments and various partners, including UN agencies and NGOs, is crucial. Candidates should also have extensive experience in managing public-private partnerships and advocating for policies that promote Environment, Climate and Health, One Health, and Migration Health programs.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and other UN official languages is desirable, as it would facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 128,422, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment, annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. 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 provide proof of vaccination as part of the recruitment process. The role is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and may involve geographical mobility.