Short-Term Consultant for Tobacco Control Initiatives

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on 7 April 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health emergencies, setting health standards, and providing technical assistance to countries. The organization is committed to achieving universal health coverage, addressing health emergencies, and promoting healthier populations.

Job Overview:
The Short-Term Consultant for Tobacco Control Initiatives will provide essential technical and regional support to advance tobacco control efforts in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. This role focuses on implementing advertising bans, enhancing taxation policies, promoting healthy cities, and improving packaging and labeling standards in alignment with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and MPOWER measures. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and health organizations, to ensure effective implementation of tobacco control initiatives funded by Bloomberg. The consultant's work will involve advocacy, capacity building, and fostering intercountry collaboration to create a tobacco-free environment in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key deliverables, including:

• Supporting the implementation of the Bloomberg-funded initiative aimed at creating a tobacco-free advertising, promotion, and sponsorship environment in the region. This includes developing advocacy materials, conducting country-specific training, and preparing background documents for national and intercountry meetings.
• Acting as the focal point for strengthening regional efforts related to tobacco and nicotine product packaging and labeling. This involves developing graphic health warnings, preparing model plain packaging specifications, and supporting technical meetings.
• Supporting the Tobacco Free Initiative (TFI) in implementing the WHO FCTC and MPOWER policy package by identifying existing gaps and coordinating ongoing work. The consultant will also be involved in preparing final reports for all activities and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in Public Health or a related field, such as economics. A postgraduate certificate or studies in public health programs, economics, research, data analysis, or health promotion is desirable. The consultant should have a strong background in research and economics, with the ability to summarize complex information and conduct quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Proficiency in writing reports and case studies is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree in Public Health or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in relevant areas such as public health, economics, or health promotion is considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of public health principles and practices, particularly in relation to tobacco control and health promotion strategies.

Experience:
The position requires up to 5 years of experience working in tobacco control and supporting the implementation of the WHO FCTC. International experience or exposure in public health initiatives is considered advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of working collaboratively with various stakeholders and contributing to successful public health programs.

Languages:
Essential for this position is expert knowledge of English, both spoken and written. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with stakeholders in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a maximum duration of 11 months, starting from 1 March 2026 to 28 February 202

• The consultant will be required to provide a medical certificate of fitness for work. The position is based on-site in Cairo, Egypt, and travel may be required as determined by the needs of the project. The remuneration for this consultancy falls under pay band level A, and travel costs are excluded from the budget. WHO emphasizes diversity in its workforce and encourages applications from women and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and does not recruit individuals who use tobacco in any form.