Director, GMC General Management And Coordination

Organizational Context

The GMC Cluster supports WHO's regional and country operations through coherent administrative, logistical, and operational frameworks, applying best practices. It enhances operational efficiency, consistency, and responsiveness across the Region via an integrated service delivery model. The Director, reporting to the Regional Director, holds managerial responsibility for financial, administrative, and personnel services, and is part of the Senior Management team.

Job Purpose

The Director of General Management and Coordination (GMC) is responsible for ensuring effective and efficient administrative services across the Africa Region, supporting the Regional Strategy and Programme Budget. This senior role provides strategic direction for the GMC Cluster, encompassing Human Resources, Finance, ICT, Operations, Compliance, and other key functions for the Regional Office and 47 country offices. The Director ensures robust governance, internal controls, and risk management, acting as a senior advisor to the Regional Director and AFRO senior management. The ultimate goal is to meet WHO's objectives in the African Region through optimized operational support and strategic guidance.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and direction for the GMC Cluster and its functions. Ensure effective delivery and integration of corporate services across the Region. Strengthen governance, internal control, risk management, and compliance frameworks. Provide leadership and direction to the Cluster and administrative staff/functions in country offices. Oversee financial, administrative, and personnel management services. Act as a senior advisor to the Regional Director and the AFRO senior management team. Build strong partnerships and foster consensus with External Partners, Member States, UN Agencies, Donors, and other stakeholders. Ensure full implementation of WHO's internal control and accountability framework across the region.

Work Experience

Essential: At least 15 years of relevant professional experience in managing programmes at an international level. Experience in programme/project planning, management, and delivery of cross-functional projects. Demonstrated success in managing business initiatives across different locations or departments. Experience working with senior-level or executive management. Experience with business process re-engineering and vendor negotiations/management.

Skills

Modern management methods, strategic thinking, leadership, responsibility, promoting effective human relations, negotiation, administrative streamlining, change management, collaborative work, independent work, adaptability, proactivity, flexibility, resourcefulness.

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