Health Operations Officer

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization's (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme aims to enhance Member States' capacity to manage health risks and coordinate international responses to outbreaks and health emergencies. This role is situated within the WHO Representative's Office in Palestine, contributing to the Programme's mission in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Job Purpose

The Health Operations Officer will play a crucial role in managing and coordinating health operations within the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, particularly in the context of outbreaks and health emergencies in Palestine. This position involves supporting the Ministry of Health and working with partners to implement effective prevention, control, and response measures. The officer will be responsible for ensuring the planning and execution of communicable disease programs, monitoring disease outbreaks, managing rapid response teams, and supporting health service delivery to affected populations. Additionally, the role involves capacity building for local staff and contributing to research and data management related to public health emergencies, ultimately aiming to protect and improve the health of the population.

Responsibilities

The Health Operations Officer is responsible for managing health operations, including team leadership and the implementation of response plans. This involves setting standards, developing technical guidance, and supporting resource mobilization and communication efforts. The role requires close collaboration with the Incident Manager and partners to implement WHO's prevention, control, and response strategies. Key duties include planning and executing communicable disease programs, monitoring outbreaks, managing rapid response teams, and supporting health information systems. The officer will also ensure health facilities are adequately equipped and provide quality healthcare, while supporting capacity-building initiatives for local health staff. This includes providing technical assistance on various public health measures and conducting research to inform response strategies.

Work Experience

Essential: A minimum of seven years of related experience at national and international levels in health operations, with proven experience in managing outbreaks and health emergencies in low and middle-income countries. Experience in managing human and financial resources is also required. Desirable: Experience in outbreak and health emergency management, strategy development within UN agencies, and working with humanitarian organizations.

Skills

Demonstrated skills in rapid response operations and public health emergency implementation. Ability to manage difficult situations. Proven skills in managing multidisciplinary and multinational teams. Comprehensive knowledge of public health, communicable diseases, and health service delivery principles and techniques. Expert knowledge of English; working knowledge of Arabic is desirable.

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