Health Specialist (Health Systems Strengthening), NOC

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to its mission, fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Health Specialist position at UNICEF is pivotal in supporting the development and preparation of the Basic Package of Health Services (BPHS) and Essential Package of Hospital Services (EPHS). Reporting to the Health Manager, the Health Specialist is responsible for the management, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the BPHS/EPHS program. This role requires providing technical guidance and management support throughout the programming processes to achieve sustainable results in health systems strengthening (HSS). The Health Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that the health programs align with UNICEF's strategic goals and performance standards, focusing on areas such as gender, maternal, neonatal, and child health. The position emphasizes the importance of results-based management approaches and accountability frameworks to facilitate effective program delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the development and planning of health programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategies.
• Managing and monitoring the implementation of health programs, ensuring timely delivery of results and adherence to quality standards.
• Providing technical and operational support to program implementation, including capacity building for local partners and stakeholders.
• Engaging in networking and partnership building to enhance collaboration and resource mobilization for health initiatives.
• Innovating and managing knowledge to improve program effectiveness and efficiency.
• Conducting evaluations and assessments to measure program impact and inform future planning.
• Reporting on program progress and outcomes to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in public health, health systems strengthening, health policy and/or management, or a relevant technical field. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five years of professional experience in health systems strengthening, public health planning and management, or maternal and neonatal health care is required. Experience in a developing country context is essential, and relevant experience within a UN system agency is considered an asset. Familiarity with projects funded by the World Bank or Asian Development Bank is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as public health or health systems strengthening. Candidates with a first university degree and additional professional experience may also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the necessary policies and management strategies to improve health outcomes.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in relevant fields, particularly in health systems strengthening and public health management. Experience in developing countries is mandatory, as it provides the necessary context for understanding the challenges faced in these environments. Additionally, experience working with UN agencies or on projects funded by international financial institutions is highly valued, as it demonstrates familiarity with the operational frameworks and standards expected in such roles.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset. Additionally, proficiency in a local language may enhance communication and effectiveness in the role, particularly in community engagement and partnership building.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within UNICEF, which emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented groups. UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The recruitment process includes rigorous background checks and medical clearance, and candidates must comply with vaccination requirements as stipulated by UNICEF. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.