Technical Officer, Medicines and Health Products Policies and Standards

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 access to essential medicines and health products. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to achieve its objectives and improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position within the Department of Medicines and Health Products Policies and Standards (HPS) is crucial for supporting Member States in enhancing access to safe, effective, quality-assured, and affordable medicines and health products. The incumbent will work closely with WHO leadership and senior management to prepare policy briefs, normative guidance, and technical documents that address priority issues related to health product access. This role involves coordinating the development and implementation of strategic frameworks and documents, ensuring alignment with WHO priorities. The Technical Officer will also monitor developments in health product access, facilitate project management, and serve as a point of contact for stakeholders, thereby promoting policy coherence and effective governance practices. The position requires a proactive approach to analyzing workflows and recommending improvements to enhance departmental initiatives and policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including providing technical and executive support to HPS leadership, preparing policy briefs and technical documents, coordinating the development and implementation of strategic frameworks, and monitoring key developments related to access to health products. They will analyze the efficiency of departmental workflows, facilitate project management involving WHO technical units and external partners, and support governance processes related to engagement with non-State actors. The Technical Officer will also respond to queries from internal and external stakeholders, contribute to informed decision-making, and perform other related duties as assigned to support departmental objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's level) in business administration, management, pharmacy, medicine, biomedical engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum of seven years of professional experience in policy development, project management, and stakeholder engagement is essential. Experience with WHO or another UN organization is highly desirable, along with international exposure in relevant areas. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of WHO policies, effective communication skills, and the ability to manage complex projects and schedules.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master's level) in a relevant field such as business administration, management, pharmacy, medicine, or biomedical engineering. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of health product policies and strategies.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of professional experience in the development of policies and strategies related to access to medicines and health products. Experience in managing complex projects and working with diverse stakeholders is crucial. Familiarity with WHO or other UN organizations is preferred, as is international exposure in relevant fields.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and other UN languages is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 86,027, 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 role is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and may involve a written test or video assessment as part of the selection process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.