Regional Advisor, Research, Vaccines And Medical Countermeasures

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme (The Programme) aims to build Member State capacity to manage health emergency risks and coordinate international responses to contain outbreaks. This role sits within the Research, Vaccines and Medical Countermeasures unit, supporting countries in Africa to mitigate and respond to emergency risks through research and effective policies.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to provide strategic guidance and technical expertise to Member States and partners in Africa on research and development (R&D), access to medical countermeasures (MCM), and scaling up vaccination interventions during public health emergencies. The incumbent will foster collaboration between WHO headquarters and regional programs, lead research on high-threat pathogens, and represent the organization in key partnerships and donor engagements. This role is crucial for strengthening national capacities to prevent, prepare for, detect, and respond to health emergencies, ensuring effective relief and recovery for affected populations.

Responsibilities

The Regional Advisor will provide technical leadership, coordination, and managerial support to the unit, ensuring efficient and effective activity implementation. This includes developing and proposing technical health policies and strategies, and overseeing specialized technical teams. The role involves managing the program area, including staff, financial resources, and work planning, to optimize deliverables. Key responsibilities include leading and conducting research on best practices, managing monitoring and evaluation, and serving as a technical reference point for peers, UN agencies, and other stakeholders. The incumbent will also represent the program area in meetings and perform other related duties as assigned. Specific duties involve contributing to preparedness initiatives, supervising influenza partnership work, coordinating regional support for vaccination in emergencies, liaising with surveillance teams for outbreak detection, supporting access to vaccines, collaborating on vaccine-preventable diseases in emergencies, and coordinating research officers.

Work Experience

Essential: A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in immunization programs, health emergencies, and research. Demonstrated experience in managing human and financial resources, working internationally, and with good knowledge of the African region. Desirable: Experience with UN agencies or international NGOs.

Skills

Authoritative voice in immunization programs with a strong research background. Skills in planning and coordinating multidisciplinary public health programs. Ability to mobilize resources. Effective and diplomatic communication with external partners. In-depth knowledge of health emergencies planning and partner coordination. Strong presentation skills. Proficiency in office packages and ERP systems.

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