Director of Health Systems and Services (HSS) Cluster

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 primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, which includes addressing health systems and services across various regions, particularly in the African context.

Job Overview:
The Director of Health Systems and Services (HSS) Cluster is a pivotal role within the WHO African Region, tasked with providing executive leadership and institutional stewardship to enhance resilient, equitable, and people-centered health systems. This position is crucial for advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in alignment with the WHO's Global Programme of Work (GPW14) and the vision of the Regional Director. The incumbent will set strategic directions, authorize major policy orientations, and ensure the delivery of impactful health systems results at scale. As the principal executive interlocutor on health systems and services, the Director will lead high-level policy dialogues, engage politically with Member States and development partners, and drive resource mobilization efforts to position WHO as a trusted leader in health systems strengthening, particularly through the Primary Health Care (PHC) approach. The role also involves guiding Member States in developing health systems that deliver quality essential services, thereby promoting integrated action and ensuring continuity of essential services during emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director's responsibilities include advising the Regional Director on strategic priorities and institutional risks, providing leadership in shaping and overseeing the implementation of regional policies and strategies, and ensuring high-level technical support to Member States. The role requires directing the integration of HSS programs to build scalable and resilient health systems, ensuring robust planning and performance monitoring, and fostering a high-performing workforce. The Director will represent WHO AFRO at regional and global forums, lead policy dialogue and advocacy, and build strategic partnerships for resource mobilization. Additionally, the incumbent will drive cross-cluster collaboration to enhance health system resilience and ensure effective emergency response across the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a medical degree and a Master's degree in Public Health or a doctorate in a related discipline from an accredited institution. A PhD in a Public-Health related discipline or specialized training in health systems strengthening is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least fifteen years of progressive public health experience, with a minimum of three years in senior management roles at the international level. Experience in both developing and developed country contexts, as well as across diverse institutional settings such as NGOs, UN agencies, and governmental health agencies, is highly valued. Proven experience in building partnerships and resource mobilization is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a medical degree and a Master's degree in Public Health or a doctorate in a related field from an accredited institution. Additional qualifications such as a PhD in a Public-Health related discipline or specialized training in health systems strengthening are considered advantageous. Candidates must have their educational qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of fifteen years of progressive experience in public health, with at least three years in senior management roles at the international level. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in both developing and developed country contexts, and across various institutional settings, including the private sector, NGOs, and governmental health agencies. Proven experience in building partnerships and engaging with donors is also essential for this role.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, while intermediate knowledge of French is desirable. The language requirements are interchangeable, allowing for flexibility in communication within the diverse contexts of the WHO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package starting at USD 117,953 annually, 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 WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The recruitment process may involve a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment, and candidates will need to provide proof of their educational qualifications. The WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of tobacco. The statutory retirement age for staff appointments is 65 years.