Director of Health Emergencies Programme

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's Health Emergencies Programme aims to enhance the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks and coordinate international health responses during crises.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Health Emergencies Programme will lead the Department in providing technical expertise to Member States and stakeholders. This role involves overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of national and global health policies and programs. The Director will be responsible for managing a diverse workforce and financial resources to optimize departmental deliverables. The position requires providing senior-level technical advice to senior management, establishing evidence-based policies, and ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of the Department's work. The Director will also represent WHO in regional forums and build partnerships with external stakeholders to position the organization as a leader in health emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the Department in providing technical expertise to Member States and stakeholders.
• Manage and direct the Department's objectives through effective leadership and resource management.
• Provide senior-level technical advice to senior management.
• Establish and develop evidence-based policies and strategies for implementation.
• Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the Department's work.
• Serve as a scientific/technical reference among UN Agencies.
• Promote integration of regional perspectives into the Department's work.
• Build partnerships and foster consensus with external partners.
• Supervise implementation of risk assessments and preparedness evaluations. 1
• Provide guidance on national health emergency plans. 1
• Ensure oversight of outbreaks and emergencies managed through the Incident Management System. 1
• Support WHO country offices in emergency readiness. 1
• Represent WHO in regional health community forums. 1
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Essential: An advanced university degree (Masters level or above) in Medicine, Public Health, or a related field. Desirable: Specialized training in epidemiology, emergency response, or management. Training in leadership is also beneficial. Candidates should possess strong skills in policy development, team management, and resource mobilization, along with a commitment to collaboration and effective communication with stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree (Masters level or above) in Medicine, Public Health, or a related field. Specialized training or degrees in epidemiology and emergency/humanitarian response are desirable, as well as training in leadership or management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management, emergency response, surveillance, disease control, or public health programs. At least 10 years of this experience should be at the international level, providing senior-level advice to decision-makers. Experience in managing human and financial resources, as well as developing policies and strategies, is essential. Desirable experience includes work with WHO or UN agencies, as well as field experience in public health or emergency response in developing countries.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English. Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French and expert knowledge of Arabic.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an annual base 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 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 used for screening. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Mobility is a condition of employment, and candidates must confirm vaccination as required by WHO.