Senior Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established with 189 member countries, the organization operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is recognized as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, working closely with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects that address urgent global challenges. The organization’s mission is to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries, helping them to implement effective solutions that foster economic growth and improve living standards.

Job Overview:
The Senior Health Specialist position at the World Bank involves overseeing the Global Financing Facility (GFF) initiatives aimed at improving maternal and newborn health (MNH) in low and middle-income countries. The role requires a deep understanding of health systems and the ability to translate technical evidence into actionable investment cases and large-scale programs. The specialist will work closely with country clients, World Bank task teams, and the GFF secretariat to develop metrics and evaluation approaches that enhance performance in maternal and child health. This position is critical in ensuring that health services are equitable, efficient, and sustainable, contributing to the overarching goal of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The specialist will also represent the GFF in global partnerships and contribute to knowledge management activities, ensuring that best practices and lessons learned are disseminated effectively across regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Health Specialist will be responsible for providing expert advice on evidence-based approaches to maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) issues. Key duties include: advising country clients and World Bank teams on scalable MNCH interventions; developing metrics for performance-based financing; collaborating with stakeholders across sectors to enhance MNCH outcomes; contributing to the creation of knowledge products such as tools and case studies; supporting routine reporting and responding to information requests; representing the GFF in global partnerships; and serving as a focal point in partner countries to facilitate investment case development and stakeholder alignment. The specialist will engage with various World Bank regions and teams to ensure the successful implementation of IDA/IBRD operations that support strategic technical assistance and analytics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Doctorate degree in medicine, public health, or a related field with a focus on Maternal and/or Newborn Health, or equivalent expertise gained through relevant work experience. A minimum of 10 years of experience in MNCH within low-income and complex settings is required, along with a proven track record of implementing evidence-based MNCH tools and interventions. Experience in integrating MNCH into World Bank operations is advantageous. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in primary health care, particularly in delivering high-quality services, and possess a strong understanding of health systems and financing reforms. The ability to work collaboratively across sectors and engage with multiple stakeholders is essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Doctorate degree in medicine, public health, or a related field, with a specific focus on Maternal and/or Newborn Health. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their expertise in health systems and financing, as well as practical experience in implementing health interventions.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of relevant work experience in maternal and child health, particularly in low-income and complex settings. This experience should include a strong background in implementing evidence-based health interventions and working within health systems. Familiarity with the World Bank’s operations and business processes is considered an advantage, as is experience in primary health care and collaborative work across sectors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent written and oral communication skills. Proficiency in French is considered an advantage, as it may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under international recruitment and has a term duration of three years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.