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. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, providing leadership on global health matters, shaping the health research agenda, setting norms and standards, and articulating evidence-based policy options. WHO's work is guided by the General Programme of Work (GPW) and the European Programme of Work (EPW), which focus on health equity, access to essential services, and preparedness for health emergencies.

Job Overview:
The Head of WHO Country Office plays a pivotal role in translating WHO's global and regional commitments into actionable national strategies. This position requires a strategic advisor who can foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including national health authorities, civil society, and international partners. The Head will be responsible for ensuring that WHO's technical expertise is effectively utilized to inform policy-making and health system transformation. This role also involves advocating for health as a fundamental component of national stability and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promoting health equity, and supporting resource mobilization efforts to enhance WHO's impact in the country. The Head will maintain strategic relationships with national institutions and ensure effective communication between WHO and national counterparts, contributing to the overall health agenda of the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of WHO Country Office will undertake a variety of responsibilities, 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 to foster dialogue between the Ministry of Health, government sectors, development partners, and civil society.
• Representing WHO in senior-level discussions and advocating for health as a priority in national policies.
• Connecting national stakeholders with WHO's technical expertise to support evidence-informed policy-making.
• Promoting health security and preparedness efforts, ensuring coordination on cross-border health threats.
• Identifying emerging trends and advising national counterparts on their implications for health policy.
• Maintaining relationships with national institutions and promoting transparency and awareness of WHO's work.
• Supporting resource mobilization efforts and strengthening partnerships to enhance WHO's capacity in the country.
• Ensuring effective communication between WHO and national counterparts, providing updates on WHO resolutions and strategies. 1
• Overseeing the operations of the Country Office to ensure compliance with WHO standards and procedures.

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 5 years of relevant experience at the national level in managing health programs, with experience in a UN organization and project management being advantageous. 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 and/or health management is considered desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise in public health issues and management practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience at the national level in managing health programs. Experience within a UN organization is desirable, as is experience in project management, which would provide valuable insights into the operational aspects of health initiatives.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English and the local language. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with national authorities and stakeholders, as well as for understanding local health contexts and challenges.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Slovakia will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at EUR 70,216, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The position offers 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. Candidates will be required to provide proof of vaccination as per WHO requirements before undertaking the assignment. The WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users.