National Professional Officer - Health System Strengthening

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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization aims to ensure that every person can access quality healthcare services and that health systems are resilient and responsive to the needs of populations.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer for Health System Strengthening will play a crucial role in enhancing the health outcomes of the population in Lesotho, particularly focusing on children and high-risk groups. The incumbent will lead the development and implementation of national health policies and strategies aimed at improving health system performance and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. This position requires a deep understanding of health data analysis, policy formulation, and the ability to foster collaboration among various stakeholders including government ministries, NGOs, and international organizations. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating health policies to ensure alignment with WHO guidelines and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for leading the development, review, and implementation of national health policies and regulatory frameworks. They will support policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare services, analyze health data to inform decision-making, and strengthen accountability and transparency in the health sector. The officer will foster collaboration among various stakeholders, advise on health education and disease prevention programs, and establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess policy effectiveness. Additionally, they will ensure that national health policies align with WHO guidelines and global health commitments, and perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in medicine, nursing, midwifery, public health, or a related discipline, along with an advanced degree (master's level) in public health, epidemiology, or a related field. Post-graduate training in health systems or health planning is desirable. Candidates should have a strong background in health policy and strategy development, particularly in resource-limited settings, and experience working with international organizations is an advantage.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as medicine, nursing, or public health is essential. An advanced degree at the master's level in public health or a related discipline is required. Additional post-graduate training or specialization in health systems, health planning, or health economics is considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in health-sector policy and strategy development is required, with at least four years in health planning or financing within governmental institutions or international organizations. Experience in health systems strengthening and health financing reform, particularly related to Universal Health Coverage initiatives, is highly desirable. Familiarity with WHO or other UN agencies is an added advantage.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. A beginner's knowledge of French is desirable but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Lesotho will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at LSL 737,382, with 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 or video assessment as part of the selection process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and integrity in its workforce.