Health Systems Advisor / Participatory Governance Policy Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) Guinea Bissau Country Office is dedicated to directing and coordinating health authority in the country. Its mission is to support the Government of Guinea Bissau in formulating, implementing, and evaluating national health policies, strategies, and plans. The organization aims to improve knowledge dissemination and management, monitor the health situation in the country, and build sustainable institutional capacity. WHO collaborates closely with the Government to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) and ensure that all citizens have access to affordable and quality health services. The office is committed to promoting health equity and strengthening primary healthcare as part of its broader health systems and services cluster objectives.

Job Overview:
The Health Systems Advisor / Participatory Governance Policy Officer will play a crucial role in supporting health policy development and planning within the context of a decentralized health system. This position involves technical consultations and coordination with various stakeholders, both within and outside the health sector. The officer will assist in regular reviews, assessments, and evaluations of health policies and plans, including the implementation of monitoring and evaluation frameworks for primary health care (PHC), UHC, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role requires providing technical assistance in designing, implementing, and monitoring health service delivery and management, with a strong emphasis on primary health care approaches, effective referral systems, quality improvement, and patient safety initiatives. Additionally, the officer will support the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in engaging non-state actors, including the private sector, in the national UHC agenda and will be involved in capacity building for results-based governance and performance of the health system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Health Systems Advisor / Participatory Governance Policy Officer include supporting health policy development and planning, providing technical assistance in health service delivery and management, assisting with the implementation of the National Action Plan for Anti-microbial Resistance (AMR), and engaging with non-state actors to strengthen the national UHC agenda. The officer will conduct capacity building, build partnerships, and advocate for health initiatives. They will plan, organize, and coordinate the organization's technical cooperation program in the area of Integrated and People-Centered Health Services and Primary Health Care. The officer will also support the MoPH in decision-making roles, coordinate technical assistance initiatives, and perform other duties as assigned by functional supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first university degree in a health-related science and training in public health, community/family medicine, health systems/services administration, health management, or a related field from an accredited institution. A postgraduate degree in public health or a related field is desirable. Candidates must have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in developing and implementing public health policies and strategies at the national level, with demonstrated experience providing technical advice to national counterparts and partners. Skills in policy development, planning, monitoring, and evaluating health systems are essential, along with strong communication skills and the ability to engage with high-level stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in a health-related science and training in public health or a related field. A postgraduate degree in public health or health systems/services administration is desirable. Educational qualifications must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience at the national level in public health, capacity-building policies, and strategies. Candidates should have experience in health systems recovery and development, health services delivery in emergencies, and extending healthcare services to underserved populations. Prior experience working with WHO or other UN agencies in formulating national and sub-national policies is desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of Portuguese is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of English and French is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a National Professional Officer position, and only applications from nationals of Guinea-Bissau will be accepted. The remuneration comprises an annual base salary starting at XOF 24,617,000, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The position may involve a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment as part of the screening process. WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.