Director of Division of Prevention and Health Promotion

Director of Division of Prevention and Health Promotion

World Health Organization (WHO)

June 9, 2026June 16, 2026CopenhagenDenmark
Job Description
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. It operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, focusing on health systems strengthening, disease prevention, and health promotion.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Division of Prevention and Health Promotion is responsible for leading and managing the division to ensure effective program delivery and accountability. This role involves inspiring a diverse workforce and optimizing human and financial resources to meet the division's objectives. The director will develop evidence-based policies and strategies for health promotion and prevention, provide technical advice to country offices, and mobilize resources to address health system challenges. The position requires a strong focus on equitable access to health services and the ability to coordinate with various stakeholders, including UN agencies and external partners, to implement comprehensive public health strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Direct and manage the division to ensure high-quality program delivery and accountability.
  • Lead the development of health intelligence and evidence-based policies.
  • Provide technical advice to country offices and development partners on health systems issues.
  • Develop mechanisms for countries to implement equitable health policies.
  • Monitor and evaluate the division's work against performance indicators.
  • Serve as a scientific reference among UN agencies and stakeholders.
  • Build partnerships with external partners and Member States.
  • Coordinate with organizations to manage sector-wide approaches.
  • Drive resource mobilization activities within the region. 1
  • Represent the division in global health forums and promote WHO leadership. 1
  • Perform other relevant duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • An advanced university degree in public health, health sciences, social sciences, or a related field.
  • A PhD in a relevant field is desirable.
  • Minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in health program management.
  • At least 5 years of senior-level advisory experience to management.
  • Management experience in senior leadership positions with responsibility for human resources and finance.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in public health, health sciences, social sciences, or a similar field relevant to health promotion and prevention. A PhD in one of these fields is considered desirable and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, including both international and national contexts. This experience should encompass progressively responsible roles in health program delivery and public health policy development. At least 5 years of experience providing senior-level advice to decision-makers in middle and high-income countries is essential. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of management experience in recognized senior leadership positions, with direct responsibility for managing human resources and financial operations.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French, German, and Russian is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the global health community.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 117,953, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment based on the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy 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 has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and candidates must adhere to the highest ethical standards.
Apply now
Similar Jobs