Consultant for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD)

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 over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to combat diseases, improve health systems, and ensure access to essential health services globally. The organization emphasizes the importance of addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and has launched various initiatives to tackle health challenges, including childhood cancer, which is a growing concern in many regions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position focuses on supporting the implementation of the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer and the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines in the Western Pacific Region. The consultant will work closely with WHO's Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD) unit to address the public health challenges posed by childhood cancer, which is increasingly recognized as a significant health issue in the region. The role involves coordinating activities related to childhood cancer, providing technical assistance to member states, and developing national childhood cancer plans. The consultant will also be responsible for creating promotional materials to raise public awareness about childhood cancer and its management. This position is crucial for ensuring that the objectives of the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer are met, ultimately aiming to improve survival rates for children with cancer in the Western Pacific Region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Coordinating activities on childhood cancer and liaising with country offices in the Western Pacific Region to strengthen health systems and enhance cross-cutting initiatives related to childhood cancer.
• Overseeing the implementation of the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines (GPACCM) in the region.
• Providing technical assistance to member states in developing national childhood cancer plans that align with global standards.
• Conducting a situational analysis on childhood cancer epidemiology, national policies, and the capacity for diagnosis and treatment across the Western Pacific countries.
• Supporting countries interested in joining the accelerator phase of the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, from initial interest to grant application and implementation of activities.
• Assisting at least three countries with GPACCM grant applications and ensuring they meet minimum standards for program implementation.
• Preparing monthly progress reports detailing activities and outcomes achieved during the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in public health or a related health field from a recognized institution. Desirable qualifications include postgraduate training (master's level) in public health, noncommunicable diseases, or cancer-related fields. The consultant should possess broad knowledge of NCD prevention and control strategies, particularly concerning childhood cancer, and have skills in planning, training, monitoring, and evaluation of health interventions. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse partners and maintain high ethical standards.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree or higher in public health or a related health field from an accredited institution. A master's degree in public health or a related field is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in managing noncommunicable diseases and childhood cancer.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in the control of noncommunicable diseases, particularly childhood cancer, is required. This experience should include public health measures aimed at preventing and managing NCDs at both national and international levels. Desirable experience includes managing large teams and projects, demonstrating the ability to lead initiatives effectively in diverse settings.

Languages:
Expert level of English is essential, with proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for nine months, from March to December 2026, with a remuneration of USD 6,000 per month. The consultant will work off-site but may be required to travel for consultations, information gathering, program reviews, and training activities. The position is open to candidates from diverse backgrounds, and WHO encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented member states. Candidates should be prepared to provide proof of their educational qualifications and may undergo a written test as part of the selection process. WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.