Health Programme Coordinator
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) operates as the UN's health authority, established in 1948. In the North Pacific, its Multi-Country Office (MCO) coordinates technical assistance and partnerships across priority public health areas for FSM, the Marshall Islands, and Palau. In Palau, WHO supports the Ministry of Health and Human Services to strengthen health systems, control diseases, improve emergency preparedness, enhance immunization, and advance universal health coverage.
Job Purpose
This role supports the WHO Multi-country Office in Palau by coordinating health programme activities in close collaboration with the National Programme Officer (NPO) and the Ministry of Health and Human Services. The Health Programme Coordinator will assist in the implementation and management of WHO's health initiatives, ensuring alignment with national priorities and global strategies. Key contributions include facilitating technical advice, supporting joint activities with partners, mobilizing resources, and enhancing the visibility of WHO's work. The position also involves leveraging local knowledge to develop community outreach for disease prevention and control, ultimately advancing universal health coverage in Palau.
Responsibilities
The Health Programme Coordinator will work under the supervision of the NPO (Public Health Officer) of the WHO Multi-country Office for North Pacific. Key responsibilities include: Programme Coordination and Implementation: - Coordinate WHO activities in Palau, ensuring alignment with managerial processes and high-quality delivery. - Assist in the implementation of programme activities and administer partnership initiatives. - Link with national health sector partners to support joint activities. Technical Support and Resource Mobilization: - Facilitate and coordinate the delivery of technical and managerial advice to state authorities and stakeholders. - Ensure the local application of WHO frameworks, tools, norms, and guidelines, aligning with global and regional strategies. - Support resource mobilization efforts for health initiatives and advocate for health's integration into state development. Community Engagement and Visibility: - Leverage local systems knowledge and cultural norms for community outreach on disease prevention, control, diagnosis, and treatment. - Contribute to the visibility of WHO's work through standard communication protocols.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of working experience in the public health sector, health service delivery, or a relevant field is required. Experience working with the UN system or an international organization is considered an asset. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not fully meet the minimum professional experience for a Specialist assignment, as they may be considered for an Associate assignment.
Skills
Required skills include a good understanding of public health systems and programmes, strong coordination and stakeholder engagement abilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the capacity to manage multiple activities and competing priorities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams are essential. Fluency in English is required, with knowledge of Palauan being highly desirable. Core competencies include credible communication, results production, adaptability in a changing environment, and fostering integration and teamwork. Expertise in general/specialized medicine, project management, programme development, strategy, and community development is also relevant.