Head of Project, Change Management Office

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 crucial role in coordinating global health responses and setting health standards. The organization focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health emergencies, and health systems strengthening, working collaboratively with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Head of Project, Change Management Office will lead a team responsible for managing and implementing projects within the WHO Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response Programme. This role involves overseeing project managers and change managers, ensuring adherence to established project management methodologies, and effectively managing project scope, time, and resources. The incumbent will be expected to drive change management initiatives, enhance customer experience, and ensure that projects align with WHO's strategic objectives. The position requires a proactive approach to managing a diverse portfolio of projects, ensuring timely reporting to senior management, and fostering collaboration across various business units. The successful candidate will also serve as a principal advisor on digital and data matters, providing evidence-based guidance on technology and digital transformation strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage a team of project managers, change managers, and project support officers, ensuring effective application of project management methodologies and standards.
• Perform change management and customer experience mapping for projects, products, and services.
• Collaborate with business units to define change management approaches and training strategies.
• Enhance the WHE project portfolio by creating visibility on project plans, status, dependencies, and risks.
• Ensure timely reporting to senior management for informed decision-making.
• Oversee the WHE Digital Ecosystem for coherence and strategic alignment.
• Monitor performance and support strategic cross-cutting projects like the Pandemic Fund.
• Promote a project management culture across WHE, establishing governance mechanisms and providing guidance on project execution.
• Provide strategic analysis and guidance to leadership on portfolio management and delivery. 1
• Serve as the principal advisor on data and digital matters, representing WHE in external forums. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced level university degree (Master's level) in Business Administration, Project Management, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualification or foundation certification in project management methodologies such as PMI and Prince
• Desirable: Training in Software Development Life Cycles, ITIL 4, or other technology-related methodologies.
• Certification or formal training in enterprise architecture, data governance, or digital health (e.g., TOGAF, DAMA-DMBOK, or equivalent).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced level university degree (Master's level) in relevant fields such as Business Administration, Project Management, Engineering, or Computer Science. Additional certifications in project management methodologies and training in technology-related areas are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of professional experience in portfolio, programme, and project management, with a proven track record of delivering complex projects, preferably at the international level. Experience in leading a Project Management Office and managing large-scale programmes is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in implementing tracking systems and operational improvement initiatives, as well as defining and executing data or digital strategies.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and other WHO languages is desirable, enhancing communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 103,165, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment, annual leave, allowances for dependents, and an education grant for children. The role is subject to WHO's Staff Regulations and may involve mobility to different duty stations. 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.