Health Cluster Coordinator (P5)

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 and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a critical role in coordinating responses to health emergencies and ensuring that health systems are prepared to handle outbreaks and emergencies. The organization works closely with various partners, including governments, NGOs, and other UN agencies, to achieve its objectives and improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Health Cluster Coordinator (P5) is a pivotal role within the WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, which is designed to prepare health systems for emergencies and outbreaks. The coordinator is responsible for leading a coordinated health-sector response in collaboration with national and international partners, focusing on the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations. This position involves overseeing health needs assessments, developing health response strategies, and ensuring effective implementation and monitoring of health services during emergencies. The coordinator will also contribute to the overall mission of relieving suffering and saving lives in humanitarian crises while promoting the dignity and well-being of affected populations. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to work effectively in high-pressure environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate a national health-sector response in collaboration with national and international stakeholders, focusing on vulnerable populations.
• Provide guidance and management for planning, monitoring, quality assurance, and reporting on health service delivery, ensuring alignment with WHO standards and protocols.
• Facilitate technical assistance for joint support missions to field operations and promote national capacity building for emergency preparedness and response.
• Oversee data management strategies and operations, ensuring effective information sharing and reporting.
• Advocate for resource mobilization and engage in partnerships to enhance health response efforts.
• Collaborate closely with health information management teams to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of health interventions and adjust strategies as necessary to meet evolving needs.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include an advanced university degree (master's level or above) in epidemiology, public health, or a related field. Candidates should possess in-depth knowledge of emergency relief policies and practices, particularly within the UN system. Strong leadership and negotiation skills are essential, along with the ability to build partnerships and promote consensus among diverse stakeholders. Candidates should demonstrate excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, particularly in emergency settings. Desirable qualifications include specialized training in emergency management and experience working with WHO or UN agencies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree (master's level or above) in a relevant field such as epidemiology, public health, or medical studies. Specialized training in emergency management, international aid, or health system recovery is highly desirable and will enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant work experience, particularly in developing collaborative partnerships in emergency and humanitarian relief operations. At least three years of this experience should be in management and coordination of health programs during chronic or acute emergencies in both national and international contexts. Experience with WHO or UN agencies, as well as with non-governmental organizations or health research institutions, is also desirable, with a preference for candidates who have at least five years of relevant experience in these settings.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions served by WHO, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position may require relocation to Bangkok, Thailand, depending on operational needs. The role is classified at the P5 level, indicating a seniority level that requires significant experience and expertise. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at USD 103,165, along with a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living at the duty station. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states.