Director of General Management and Coordination

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, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working 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, health systems, and emergency response, among others. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity, inclusiveness, and respect for human rights, aiming to improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Director of General Management and Coordination (GMC) is a pivotal role within the WHO Africa Region, responsible for ensuring that administrative services are effective and efficient. This position supports the implementation of the Regional Strategy and Programme Budget, providing strategic direction for various functions including Human Resources, Budget and Finance, Information and Communication Technology, Operations and Support Services, Compliance, Procurement, Health and Medical Services, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security. The Director will work closely with the Regional Director and senior management to ensure that the goals and objectives of WHO and the African Region are met. The GMC Cluster aims to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness across the Region through an integrated service delivery model, which includes a dedicated support hub for country offices and the regional office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of GMC will lead and direct the Cluster, ensuring effective delivery and integration of corporate services across the Region. Key responsibilities include: providing strategic leadership and direction for the GMC Cluster; strengthening governance, internal control, risk management, and compliance frameworks; advising the Regional Director and senior management on corporate services and operational matters; promoting efficiency and continuous improvement in alignment with WHO policies; managing and developing staff; facilitating coordination between regional and country operations; representing the Organization in administrative and operational matters; ensuring follow-up on audit recommendations and compliance requirements; and performing other related duties as required. The Director will also be responsible for building strong partnerships with external partners, member states, UN agencies, donors, and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership and management skills, with a proven ability to promote effective human relations in an international environment. Essential qualifications include very good skills in modern management methods as applied to large complex international administrations, a strong sense of leadership and responsibility, and the ability to negotiate with officials in Member States and other organizations regarding administrative, legal, and financial issues. Additional desirable qualifications include experience in administrative streamlining and change management, as well as the ability to work collaboratively and independently, adapt quickly, and be proactive, flexible, and resourceful.

Educational Background:
An advanced-level University degree in Business Administration, Management, Human Resources, Finance, Supply Chain, Project Management, or other disciplines related to the functions of the position is essential. Desirable qualifications include certification in business process management re-engineering methodologies and training in WHO's Project Management framework from the Project Management Centre of Excellence.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least 15 years of relevant professional experience in managing programmes at the international level. This includes experience in programme/project planning, management, and successful delivery of cross-functional or interdependent projects, with some experience at the global or international level. Demonstrated experience in managing business initiatives within a corporate environment across different locations and/or departments is required, as well as experience working with senior-level or executive-level management. Knowledge of WHO Business Operations in the fields of Programme Management, Human Resources, Finance, and/or Supply is an advantage, particularly with 5 years of senior experience.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English or French is essential, with a good working knowledge of the other language being desirable. This bilingual proficiency is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a supervisory role and is part of the Senior Management team in the Region. The remuneration for this position includes an annual base salary starting at USD 130,477, with additional benefits such as a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 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 are required to confirm their vaccination status as per WHO requirements before undertaking a WHO assignment.