NCD Programme Coordinator

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 ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), health systems, and emergency response, among others. WHO collaborates with countries to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Job Overview:
The NCD Programme Coordinator will play a crucial role in establishing a strong and effective WHO presence in Fiji to implement WHO Country Cooperation Strategies (CSS) that align with the health development priorities of Member States. The primary goal of the NCD programme is to reduce preventable morbidity, avoidable disability, and premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the South Pacific Region. The incumbent will provide essential support in coordinating and managing NCD-related projects and programs, ensuring effective planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and timely reporting that aligns with WHO’s global and regional strategies. This position requires a proactive approach to developing and implementing evidence-based policies, strategies, plans, and guidelines for NCD prevention and control, focusing on risk factor reduction and health promotion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing technical input to the work program in the area of surveillance on NCD prevention and control; undertaking research on NCD public health topics to facilitate the development and implementation of NCD health programmes and activities; conducting the implementation of a research agenda on NCDs, including promoting operational research on the cost-effectiveness of community-based interventions; monitoring work plans and budgets, including resource mobilization for the work programme; analyzing data of best practices in implementing NCD prevention and control strategies; preparing and disseminating information to inform and develop evidence-based policies; participating in community outreach activities concerning the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of NCDs; preparing and delivering oral presentations; compiling, preparing, and distributing related informational materials; exchanging information with counterparts in technical departments at HQ, Regional and Country Offices, and with donor and development partners on implementation of policies and strategies related to NCD activities; reviewing and ensuring quality assurance and relevance of contractual engagements with partners and institutions; and building capacity of Member states/national workforce to establish and strengthen facility-based NCD surveillance systems.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in public health, medicine, or health information management, preferably with a specialization in non-communicable diseases. An advanced degree (master’s level or above) in public health, public health administration, information technology, or epidemiology with a specialization in disease control surveillance is desirable. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
Essential educational qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in public health, medicine, or health information management, with a preference for specialization in non-communicable diseases. Desirable qualifications include an advanced degree (master’s level or above) in public health or related fields, particularly with a focus on disease control surveillance. Candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates must have at least five years of experience with proven international exposure in non-communicable diseases, focusing on investigation, surveillance, and control. Desirable experience includes first-hand working experience at the country level, preferably in resource-limited settings. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of NCDs and their management.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly languages relevant to the South Pacific Region.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 70,212, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of unrepresented and underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all members of the workforce are expected to adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards. Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO, and candidates may be assigned to any activity or duty station of the Organization throughout the world.