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 over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's work is guided by its General Programme of Work (GPW14) and the European Programme of Work 2025-2029 (EPW2), focusing on health equity, preparedness, and resilience.

Job Overview:
The Head of WHO Country Office plays a pivotal role in translating global health commitments into national actions. This position involves providing strategic advice to national authorities, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, and ensuring that WHO's expertise contributes effectively to national health priorities. The Head will act as a trusted advisor to the Ministry of Health and other national counterparts, facilitating dialogue and promoting multisectoral approaches to health. The role also includes advocating for health as a fundamental aspect of national stability and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and ensuring that health policies are informed by evidence and best practices. The Head will oversee the operations of the Country Office, ensuring compliance with WHO standards and facilitating effective communication between national authorities and WHO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of WHO Country Office will be responsible for a range of duties including: providing strategic advice to national authorities through the development and implementation of the Biennial Collaborative Agreement (BCA) and/or the Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS); acting as a trusted advisor and impartial convenor among various health stakeholders; representing WHO in senior-level discussions and advocating for health as a priority; connecting national stakeholders with WHO's technical expertise; promoting health security and preparedness; identifying emerging trends and advising on their implications; maintaining strategic relationships with national institutions and organizations; supporting resource mobilization efforts; ensuring effective communication between WHO and national counterparts; monitoring and reporting on country-level progress; and overseeing the efficient functioning of the Country Office.

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 demonstrate competencies in building partnerships, producing results, adapting to change, effective 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 in fulfilling the responsibilities of the Head of WHO Country Office.

Languages:
Candidates must have expert knowledge of English and the local language. Proficiency in additional languages may be advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Bulgaria will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at EUR 47,925, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and candidates will undergo background verification. The successful candidate must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before commencing the assignment.