Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) was established in 1944 and is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for development solutions globally. With a mission to eradicate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the WBG operates in 188 member countries and has nearly 15,000 staff across 120 offices worldwide. The organization comprises five specialized institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The WBG is dedicated to providing loans, grants, equity investments, and guarantees to its members and private businesses, with a commitment of $67 billion in fiscal year 2018 alone, including $24 billion in concessional finance to its poorest members. The organization is structured into six client-facing Regional Vice-Presidencies and thirteen Global Practices, which aim to deliver tailored development solutions backed by finance and world-class knowledge.

Job Overview:
The Health Specialist position at the World Bank in Maputo, Mozambique, is a critical role within the Health, Nutrition, and Population (HNP) Global Practice. The primary function of this position is to support the implementation of the Bank’s HNP loan portfolio, which includes preparing national and regional operations, contributing to technical discussions, and monitoring the portfolio in collaboration with government agencies and development partners. The Health Specialist will also co-lead high-quality analytical and advisory services, participate in capacity-building activities, and engage in policy dialogue with government counterparts and stakeholders. This role requires a strategic approach to improving health outcomes, expanding access to high-quality health services, and strengthening health systems. The selected candidate will be expected to work closely with the Global Financing Facility (GFF) and contribute to cross-sectoral initiatives addressing issues such as water, energy, and environmental conditions, all while focusing on innovative solutions to enhance health system efficiency and effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: supporting the implementation of the Bank’s HNP loan portfolio; preparing national and regional operations; contributing to technical discussions and day-to-day monitoring of the portfolio; co-leading and contributing to analytical and advisory services tasks; participating in capacity-building activities such as workshops and seminars; engaging in policy dialogue with government counterparts; building and maintaining partnerships within the Bank and with external partners; contributing to health sector-specific and cross-sectoral operational products; reviewing and contributing to policy documents; organizing and participating in health team missions; responding to ad hoc information requests; and carrying out any other activities required as part of the health and human capital portfolio. The Health Specialist will report to the Practice Manager for HNP in Eastern and Southern Africa and will support the HNP Task Team Leaders in Mozambique.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in public health, nutrition, population, or a related field, along with 5 to 8 years of relevant professional experience in public health or health service delivery projects. Experience in digital health, health financing, and human resources for health is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a proven track record of accountability for work products, meeting deadlines, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Strong strategic thinking skills and the ability to analyze diverse information from various sources are essential. Excellent oral and written communication skills in both English and Portuguese are mandatory, as the candidate will need to prepare complex documents and present ideas clearly.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree or higher in public health, nutrition, population, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of health systems and the various factors that influence health outcomes, particularly in the context of the World Bank’s mission to improve health services and financing in developing countries.

Experience:
Candidates should have between 5 to 8 years of relevant professional experience in public health or health service delivery projects. Experience in conflict or fragile contexts is advantageous, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate challenging environments and implement effective health solutions. A strong record of meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work is also crucial for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as the Health Specialist will be required to communicate effectively with government counterparts and stakeholders in Mozambique. The ability to prepare documents on complex subjects and present ideas clearly in both languages is essential. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, multilingual candidates may have an advantage in engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate will be expected to adhere to all World Bank regulations and guidelines applicable to staff.