National Professional Officer

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Position Title: National Professional Officer
Location: Prague
Country: Czech Republic
Deadline Date:

Job Details

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 works to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency preparedness, among others. WHO's strategic engagement portfolio aims to maximize its impact in countries by aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Programme of Work (EPW).

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position within the Division of Country Support and Partnerships (CPA) at WHO is designed to support the implementation of the Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) and related activities. The role involves actively engaging with national authorities and stakeholders to enhance health governance and improve health systems performance. The officer will be responsible for providing technical assistance on priority health issues, including the management of communicable and non-communicable diseases, health system strengthening, and emergency preparedness. The position requires collaboration with various partners to ensure effective implementation of WHO's health initiatives and to promote health equity across the country. The officer will also assist in the preparation of reports, briefings, and policy analyses to support decision-making processes at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Professional Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the implementation of WHO activities by collaborating with health and other sectors to develop, implement, and evaluate national health policies and strategies aimed at improving universal health coverage.
• Working closely with national, sub-national, and sub-regional stakeholders to enhance health governance and inter-sectoral action for health and well-being.
• Providing technical assistance on priority health issues, including health system strengthening, public health functions, and addressing the health burden of diseases.
• Assisting in the application of tools and guidelines for health information improvement, data analysis, and sharing.
• Preparing high-quality briefings, reports, and situation analyses in a timely manner.
• Supporting the Head of WHO Country Office in managerial, programmatic, and administrative activities.
• Promoting partnerships with relevant health stakeholders and ensuring the high technical quality of tasks carried out under donor-funded initiatives.
• Collaborating with institutions, associations, and NGOs for information exchange and coordination of activities.
• Assisting in mission preparations by providing background analysis and policy briefs.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree at the Bachelor's level in medicine, public health, social and political sciences, economics, or a related field. A Master's degree or postgraduate training in these areas is desirable, along with project management certification. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills and demonstrated knowledge in health system analysis, as well as the ability to provide technical guidance to multiple stakeholders. Proficiency in standard computer applications, emotional intelligence, and the ability to communicate health-policy concepts clearly are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree at the Bachelor's level in a relevant field such as medicine, public health, social and political sciences, or economics. A Master's degree or postgraduate training in these areas is highly desirable, as is project management certification.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of national professional experience in project management within the fields of public health, health systems, social or health policy, or international development. Relevant work experience with WHO, the UN, or other international organizations in the public health sector is considered desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Czech is essential for this position. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of the Czech Republic will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at CZK 1,510,923, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The 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 has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates will undergo background verification. The successful candidate will be required to provide evidence of vaccination as per WHO requirements.