Health Systems Associate
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UN agency for health, dedicated to promoting health, ensuring safety, and serving vulnerable populations globally. Its South Pacific Office in Suva functions as a multi-country hub, providing crucial technical and operational support to Pacific Island nations. This office, also known as the Division of Pacific Technical Support (DPS), collaborates with governments and partners to advance universal health coverage, health security, and population well-being across the region.
Job Purpose
The Health Systems Associate will support the Pacific Health Systems and Policy (PHS) Unit, which focuses on strengthening equitable, efficient, and people-centered health systems in Pacific Island countries to achieve universal health coverage. The role involves contributing to policy development, health financing, service delivery, essential medicines, health intelligence, and addressing social determinants of health. The associate's efforts will enhance national capacities for designing, implementing, and monitoring health system reforms, ultimately improving access, quality of care, and health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the Public Health and Surveillance Team Coordinator, the Health Systems Associate will provide coordination and logistical support for unit activities. Key duties include assisting in the preparation of technical materials such as briefs, slides, and background notes. The associate will support data collection, management, and basic analysis for assessments and indicator monitoring. They will also participate in enhancing and implementing monitoring and evaluation tools to track workplans and deliverables. Additionally, the role involves maintaining project files, compiling reports, and preparing visibility materials, along with undertaking other assigned duties.
Work Experience
While no prior experience is strictly required, demonstrated interest and/or experience (up to two years) in public health initiatives, health systems strengthening, activity coordination, and logistical management is highly desirable. Experience in data collection, basic analysis, documentation, and working with diverse teams is also beneficial. Previous volunteer experience or cross-cultural exposure is considered an asset.
Skills
Essential skills include adaptability, flexibility, commitment, motivation, strong communication, creativity, integrity, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and technological awareness. Proficiency in public health, immunization, pharmacy, and allied health professions is also important. The ability to work effectively in teams is crucial.