National Professional Officer

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Position Title: National Professional Officer
Location: Bishkek
Country: Kyrgyzstan
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. It operates in 194 member states and has a workforce of over 7,000 employees globally. The organization focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response, working collaboratively with countries to achieve health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The position of National Professional Officer is integral to the WHO's Division of Country Health Policies and Systems (CPS), which aims to assist countries in developing and implementing effective health policies and systems. The officer will coordinate and monitor the SDG Fund Digital Transformation Joint Programme, focusing on bridging the digital health divide in Kyrgyzstan. This role involves ensuring that the project aligns with WHO's objectives and targets, facilitating communication among stakeholders, and overseeing the operational aspects of the project. The officer will also be responsible for developing implementation plans, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with WHO standards and guidelines. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various partners to enhance health service delivery through digital health innovations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and manage the implementation of the SDG Fund Digital Transformation Joint Programme, ensuring alignment with project objectives and targets.
• Support the preparation of Steering and Operational Committee meetings, maintaining regular communication with the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office and relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor and track progress towards key milestones, including budget monitoring and drafting progress reports.
• Develop a joint implementation plan and oversee daily project operations, addressing any operational challenges that arise.
• Prepare and update a communication and visibility plan for the project, facilitating advocacy and promotion activities.
• Coordinate procurement of goods and services, ensuring proper distribution and deployment of resources.
• Contribute to the development and adaptation of WHO standards, protocols, and training materials relevant to the project.
• Facilitate coordination with national authorities for joint actions, including working groups and training sessions.
• Organize regular meetings with project partners and NGOs to enhance national awareness and visibility. 1
• Provide technical and organizational support for study visits and missions of WHO staff and experts, documenting capacity-building events and following up on recommendations. 1
• Perform other related duties as required by supervisors to ensure successful project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree at the Bachelor's level in information technology, science, public health, or related fields. Desirable qualifications include a Master's degree or advanced training in these areas. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of digital health applications, principles of epidemiology, and biostatistics, along with strong analytical, presentation, and report writing skills. Effective project management skills and the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment are also essential. Knowledge of international organizations' goals and procedures, particularly in health projects, is highly valued.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree (Bachelor's level) in information technology, science, public health, or equivalent areas relevant to the position. A Master's degree or advanced training in these fields is desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex health systems and digital health technologies.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of professional experience at the national level in health systems, public health, and health information, particularly in digital health technologies. Candidates should have demonstrated experience working with public projects and engaging multiple stakeholders, including national policymakers, NGOs, and the private sector. Desirable experience includes working specifically with digital health services and planning and implementing health-related projects or programs.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English, Russian, and Kyrgyz. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders and partners in the region, ensuring that project objectives are met and that all parties are engaged in the implementation process.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Kyrgyzstan will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at an annual base salary of USD 38,484, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments, and the organization maintains a smoke-free environment.