Health Emergency Data and Information Management Officer

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) in the Western Pacific Region works with 37 Member States to combat infectious and noncommunicable diseases, improve maternal and child health, ensure environmental safety, and respond to health emergencies. As a UN specialized agency established in 1948, WHO promotes health, ensures global safety, and serves vulnerable populations by coordinating emergency responses, setting standards, and expanding universal health coverage. The Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) has implemented a regional Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Framework to enhance outcome-based reporting and demonstrate the value of its work.

Job Purpose

The Health Emergency Data and Information Management Officer will significantly enhance WHO's capacity for data-driven decision-making within the Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) in the Western Pacific Region. This role is crucial for strengthening data collection, ensuring systematic tracking of key indicators, and improving data quality and utilization across all phases of health emergencies: preparedness, alert, response, and recovery. By supporting the Health Emergency Information and Risk Assessment (HIM) unit, the officer will contribute to the effective monitoring and evaluation of WHE activities, ensuring that timely and accurate data informs strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational effectiveness in addressing critical health threats.

Responsibilities

The Health Emergency Data and Information Management Officer will be responsible for maintaining and quality assuring regional WHE datasets, including M&E indicators and disease-specific data, ensuring timeliness and completeness of reporting. This involves assisting in organizing event signals, managing databases, and supporting verification and risk assessment processes, as well as compiling and submitting validated data to WHO systems. The role includes mapping data flows, streamlining collection and storage, and developing data management procedures to enhance data quality and accuracy. The officer will organize electronic information repositories, maintain dashboards, and ensure interoperability with global and regional systems. Furthermore, the position requires analyzing health emergency data to identify trends and gaps, producing data visualizations for various reports and briefings, and generating standard monitoring outputs. Coordination with WHO Country Offices and technical units for data submission follow-up, resolving discrepancies, and providing technical support on data management and reporting are also key duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant experience is required in data and information management, including data analysis, quality assurance, and the creation of visualizations and dashboards. Proficiency in Excel and other data management software is essential. Experience in information management, organizing files, and maintaining repositories is necessary. Strong analytical and reporting skills, accuracy, and professionalism in presenting data are expected. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a challenging environment are also required. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS, STATA, or Power BI, and an understanding of AI tools for data analysis are desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include technical expertise, producing results, teamwork, and communicating effectively. The role requires respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences. Specific skills include data management and analysis, data visualization, information management, accuracy in reporting, interpersonal skills, adaptability, and computer literacy. Familiarity with public health emergencies and data analysis tools is advantageous.

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