Project Manager

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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including health systems strengthening, disease prevention, and health promotion. The organization operates in multiple countries, providing technical assistance and support to national health institutions to improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager position within the ULC/HSS Cluster at WHO Angola is crucial for enhancing the health system in Angola. The role involves providing technical assistance to national health institutions, focusing on strengthening health systems, promoting universal access to healthcare, and improving the quality of services. The Project Manager will be responsible for planning and coordinating various health assessments and strategies, ensuring alignment with national health objectives, and facilitating stakeholder engagement. This position requires a proactive approach to managing complex projects and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government officials and international partners. The Project Manager will also play a key role in monitoring project progress and reporting on outcomes, contributing to evidence-based health policy and governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will undertake a variety of duties including:

• Project Planning and Coordination: Develop and regularly update project implementation plans, workplans, timelines, and milestones. Contribute to the national strategy for primary health care and coordinate the integration of all project components. Organize and support Technical Working Groups established by the Ministry of Health.
• Management of Technical Activities: Oversee the implementation of health assessments, ensuring data quality and timely stakeholder consultations. Support the development of the Costed PHC Investment Plan, integrating findings from assessments and aligning with WHO-UNICEF frameworks.
• Budget, Risk, and Operational Management: Monitor project expenditures against the approved budget, identify risks, and propose mitigation measures. Ensure compliance with WHO administrative and reporting procedures.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Engage with senior government officials and coordinate partner briefings to promote harmonization. Prepare communication materials for high-level meetings.
• Monitoring, Reporting, and Knowledge Management: Track progress against deliverables, prepare reports, and document lessons learned to inform future initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in health economics, public health systems, public administration, or a related field. Training in project management, health financing, or results-based management is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong project planning, coordination, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and tight deadlines. Excellent analytical, drafting, and reporting skills are essential, along with proven ability to engage effectively with government counterparts and partners.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in relevant fields such as health economics, public health systems, or public administration. Additional training in project management or health financing is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to manage complex health projects effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in project management within health financing or health systems strengthening programs. Demonstrated experience in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects involving government counterparts and international partners is essential. Experience working in low- and middle-income country contexts is highly desirable, as it provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in these environments.

Languages:
Essential languages for this position include expert knowledge of English and Portuguese. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders and partners in the region. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse populations and facilitate collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 71,335, subject to mandatory deductions. The role includes a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Luanda, currently amounting to USD 3,246 per month. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization adheres to high ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards abusive conduct.