Director of Traditional Medicine

Job Posting Organization:
The Global Centre for Traditional Medicine is an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) aimed at integrating traditional medicine into global health systems. The organization focuses on ensuring safe, effective, and equitable access to traditional medicine practices, emphasizing research, evidence, and sustainability. The Centre aims to support Member States in harnessing the potential of traditional medicines for health and wellness, promoting scientific advances, and protecting biodiversity. WHO, established in 1948, operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to improving global health.

Job Overview:
The Director of Traditional Medicine will lead the Department in providing technical expertise to Member States and stakeholders, guiding the development and implementation of national and global policies and programs related to traditional medicine. This role requires overall leadership and management accountability, ensuring that the Department's objectives are met through effective resource management and performance practices. The Director will articulate a clear vision aligned with organizational strategy, oversee monitoring and evaluation processes, and serve as a scientific reference among UN Agencies. The position also involves building partnerships, mobilizing resources, and representing WHO in global forums, ensuring that traditional medicine is integrated into health policies and practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will lead the identification of research priorities in traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) through stakeholder engagement. They will oversee the development of frameworks to assess the quality of evidence supporting TCIM practices and collaborate with WHO guidelines development processes. The Director will design capacity-building programs to enhance TCIM research capabilities and contribute to raising voluntary contributions for WHO's core mandates. They will also manage a diverse workforce, ensure optimal performance of departmental deliverables, and promote cross-departmental collaboration. Additional responsibilities include resource mobilization, consensus building with external partners, and representing WHO in various global forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's level) in public health, traditional medicine, or related fields. A PhD is desirable, along with specialized training in traditional medicine or integrative health. Certification in project management or health administration is also beneficial. Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in managing traditional medicine programs, providing senior-level advice, and developing policies and strategies. International experience is essential, and experience at the country level in traditional medicine is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's level) in public health, traditional medicine, complementary and integrative medicine, medicine, pharmacology, health sciences, or a related field is essential. A PhD in one of these fields is desirable, along with specialized training in traditional medicine or integrative health. Certification in project management or health administration is also preferred.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of professional experience in managing traditional medicine programs, including TCIM research and standards. Experience providing senior-level advice to management, managing human and financial resources, and developing policies is required. Demonstrated international experience is essential, and experience at the country or sub-national level in traditional medicine is desirable. Proven leadership in managing large, multi-disciplinary projects is also necessary.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of other UN languages is desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 130,477, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment, annual leave, allowances for dependents, home leave, and an education grant for children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Special selection procedures may apply for candidates separated due to organizational changes. Candidates may be required to provide proof of educational qualifications and undergo background verification. The WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users.