National Professional Officer (Health Policies)

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 the principles of equity, inclusivity, and a commitment to achieving the highest possible level of health for all people.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Health Policies) position is situated within the WHO Country Office in Ukraine. The incumbent will play a crucial role in supporting the review and adaptation of existing health policies and the development of new health regulations in alignment with Ukraine's legislative approximation towards European Union (EU) integration. This role requires a deep understanding of health governance and policy-making processes, as well as the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. The incumbent will work closely with national health authorities and international partners to facilitate the implementation of health programs and ensure that Ukraine's health policies meet EU standards. The position demands a high level of independence in decision-making, particularly after the successful completion of the probationary period, and involves regular communication with various stakeholders to represent WHO's interests in health policy matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Facilitating coordination among WHO technical units to support the Ministry of Health (MOH) and other national health entities in identifying EU acquis and national regulatory frameworks that require review and adaptation.
• Assisting the MOH in conducting assessments and mapping activities to identify regulatory gaps in Ukraine's health system as it aligns with EU standards.
• Supporting policy dialogues and organizing working groups, roundtables, and meetings focused on the transition of the Ukrainian health system towards EU approximation.
• Coordinating with partners and stakeholders involved in Ukraine's EU accession process.
• Contributing to the preparation of reports, discussion papers, and technical notes related to health in the context of EU accession.
• Collaborating with the United Nations System to ensure a coordinated approach towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Preparing missions for WHO staff and external consultants, providing support during these missions, and following up on outcomes.
• Contributing to regular updates and reports on the area of work to the country and regional offices.
• Assisting with cross-divisional and intercountry activities as needed. 1
• Providing support in other areas of the Country Office's work as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree (Bachelor's level or equivalent) in nursing, medicine, public health, or a related field, along with a background in public administration, social sciences, international studies, legal sciences, or a related area. A Master's degree in one of these fields is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least two years of relevant work experience in the development, adaptation, or review of national or local health strategies and policies, or in government EU integration processes within social sectors. Desirable qualifications include experience in developing health regulations and policies, participating in EU accession processes, and convening working groups or coordination structures involving diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as nursing, medicine, public health, or related areas. A Master's degree in one of these fields is considered an asset and enhances the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in areas such as the development and adaptation of health strategies and policies, or involvement in government processes related to EU integration in social sectors. Additional desirable experience includes participation in EU accession processes, development of health regulations, and program management in public health and health reform.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Ukrainian is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of another WHO language is considered desirable, enhancing communication capabilities within the organization and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Ukraine will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at an annual base salary of USD 43,650, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. Candidates may be required to provide proof of vaccination as part of the hiring process, and WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.