Coordination Officer

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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on health issues that transcend national boundaries and require coordinated international action.

Job Overview:
The Coordination Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the Minister's Secretariat within the Ministry of Health in Bhutan. This position is designed to address the increasing demands and responsibilities in public health governance, particularly in coordinating health policies and programs aimed at building a resilient health system. The officer will be responsible for analyzing existing health policies, providing evidence-based recommendations, and collaborating with various stakeholders to align health initiatives with national priorities. The role requires a proactive approach to monitoring and evaluating health programs, ensuring that they effectively address the health challenges faced by the country. The Coordination Officer will also prepare reports and communication materials for the Minister of Health, contributing to informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of existing health policies, programs, and initiatives in Bhutan, identifying strengths, weaknesses, gaps, and areas for improvement.
• Provide evidence-based recommendations to the executives on policy formulation, modification, and implementation strategies to address key health challenges and priorities.
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders within the Ministry, other government agencies, international organizations, and development partners to coordinate efforts in aligning external assistance with national health priorities.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of health policies and programs, assessing their impact and effectiveness.
• Prepare reports, briefs, presentations, and other communication materials as required by the Minister of Health and Policy and Planning Division.
• Provide technical assistance in planning during the FYP formulation to ensure that national priorities and international commitments are aligned.
• Monitor policy implementation as per policy monitoring framework.
• Analyze government policies and advise the Minister on policy matters.
• Undertake any other tasks as assigned by the Minister or the Administrative Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Master’s degree in public policy, Public Health, Public Administration, or a closely related discipline from a recognized university. Candidates must have at least ten years of experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder efforts in health preparedness initiatives, implementing public health workplans, and preparing high-level reports and communications. Demonstrated expertise in conducting policy research and data analysis is also required, along with a strong understanding of the health system in Bhutan and familiarity with national health priorities and challenges. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in public policy, Public Health, Public Administration, or a closely related discipline from a recognized university. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health governance and policy formulation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in public health, particularly in coordinating health initiatives and policy analysis. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with multiple stakeholders, implementing public health strategies, and preparing comprehensive reports and communications. Experience in the Bhutanese health system and familiarity with national health priorities is highly desirable.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English is mandatory, as well as proficiency in Dzongkha. Knowledge of other local languages would be considered an advantage, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders in Bhutan.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Thimphu, Bhutan, and is offered through a Special Services Agreement (SSA). The annual base salary starts at BTN 1,179,50

• This vacancy notice may be used to fill similar positions at the same level, and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. A written test and interviews may be part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications in advance if selected for an interview. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. Candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking an assignment.