Public Health Programme Specialist (HER Roster)

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UN's global health authority, established in 1948. WHO Vietnam, a Member State since 1950, supports the government in achieving universal health coverage and improving health outcomes. Operating within the UN's Delivering as One initiative, WHO Vietnam collaborates with national and international partners to address health challenges and transition towards middle-income status. This role is part of strengthening public health systems and emergency preparedness.

Job Purpose

This UN Volunteer assignment, part of the UNV Humanitarian Emergency Response (HER) Roster, aims to strengthen WHO Vietnam's public health systems, disease prevention, and emergency preparedness. The Public Health Programme Specialist will support the Health Security and Emergencies Team in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating public health programs. Key contributions include enhancing programme performance, fostering stakeholder collaboration with the Ministry of Health and partners, improving national capacity building, and ensuring better public health outcomes and readiness for health emergencies. The role supports evidence-based decision-making and programme coordination.

Responsibilities

The Public Health Programme Specialist will support the planning, implementation, monitoring, and coordination of health and public health programmes under the supervision of an Epidemiologist. Key duties include implementing programmes aligned with national health priorities and WHO objectives, collecting and analyzing health data for evidence-based decision-making, and contributing to disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness activities. The role involves monitoring and evaluating programme activities, preparing technical reports, and facilitating coordination and communication with government counterparts, development partners, and other stakeholders. Additionally, the specialist will assist in organizing events, strengthening health systems through capacity building, and supporting programme management functions.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in public health, epidemiology, health systems, disease prevention and control, health promotion, or programme management is required. Experience in data analysis, programme implementation and monitoring, and collaboration with diverse stakeholders is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and excellent English communication skills are necessary. Desirable experience includes health emergency preparedness, health systems strengthening, and working with international organizations.

Skills

Core competencies include professionalism, integrity, communication, planning, teamwork, adaptability, analytical skills, respect for diversity, accountability, creativity, and self-management. Specific skills required are in emergency preparedness, crisis response, community development, and administration. Strong organizational, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving abilities are also crucial.

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