Technical Officer

Organizational Context

The Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control Directorate within WHO leads regional efforts to prevent and manage diseases, promote mental health, and address health determinants. This role specifically supports the NCD prevention and healthcare program, focusing on cancer prevention and control across the Eastern Mediterranean Region, aligning with WHO's strategic work and the Regional Director's vision.

Job Purpose

This role provides crucial technical expertise to Member States in cancer prevention and control, contributing to the development and implementation of national cancer control programs. It involves assessing regional cancer control infrastructure, fostering collaboration, disseminating WHO guidance, and building national capacity for initiatives like the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. The position aims to strengthen NCD prevention and healthcare strategies, ultimately reducing the burden of cancer and improving health outcomes in the region.

Responsibilities

Provide technical advice to Member States on cancer prevention and control, including the implementation of national responses to childhood and common cancers. Draft, revise, and develop national cancer control programs aligned with national health strategies and NCD plans. Assess regional childhood cancer control infrastructure, policies, and plans in EMR countries through data collection and expert consultation. Establish and coordinate information-exchange networks for WHO guidance and tools on childhood cancer control. Support capacity building for the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer and related programs through workshops and partner engagement. Mentor consultants involved in regional cancer initiatives. Assist with other technical tasks related to NCDs and cancer prevention and control.

Work Experience

Essential: Minimum of five years of combined national and international experience in medicine and public health practice, with specific experience in cancer control in low- and middle-income countries. Desirable: Experience within WHO, the UN system, or other international health organizations, particularly in the EMR.

Skills

Demonstrated knowledge of political, social, and health systems in the EMR. Technical and programmatic expertise in NCD prevention and management, including cancer. Understanding of WHO's role, mandates, strategies, and action plans. Teamwork, communication, adaptability, and partnership-building skills. Expert knowledge of English; intermediate knowledge of French and Arabic is desirable.

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