Senior Operations Officer
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in India delivers core WHO functions at the country level, supporting the government in health policy and strategy. This role facilitates program delivery by providing essential managerial and administrative services, ensuring compliance with organizational rules and regulations.
Job Purpose
The Senior Operations Officer provides authoritative advice and strategic direction on all aspects of country office operations to the WHO Representative and other staff. This role is responsible for leading and managing operations teams to deliver comprehensive services in finance, human resources, procurement, IT, and administration. The position ensures effective financial resource management, supports project proposal development, oversees HR plans, and drives operational efficiency, including in emergency settings. The role also involves representing the WHO country office in inter-agency coordination mechanisms.
Responsibilities
Provide expert advice on country office operations, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance with donor agreements. Lead and manage operations teams across finance, HR, procurement, IT, security, and general administration. Offer strategic guidance on the overall direction of the WHO country office. Ensure effective financial resource management, including planning, monitoring, reconciliation, and reporting. Guide the formulation and negotiation of project proposals. Support critical activities in public health initiatives, including administrative and HR operations. Oversee the development and implementation of HR plans, focusing on recruitment, retention, and staff well-being. Manage procurement processes for goods and services. Ensure office and staff security and safety. Implement operational procedures in emergency settings. Advise on and mitigate operational and administrative risks. Drive innovation for improved operational efficiency and effectiveness. Coordinate with the Business Operations network to harmonize processes. Represent the WHO country office in UN operations management teams and inter-agency forums.
Work Experience
Essential: Minimum of ten years of relevant work experience in administrative and managerial services, with a focus on compliance in national and international settings. Minimum of four years of experience in managing and leading staff/teams. Desirable: Experience with WHO, UN agencies, or similar organizations; experience in developing countries or emergency contexts; knowledge of programme management and ERP systems.
Skills
Expertise in administrative, financial, and management principles and policies of international organizations. Strong skills in administration, programme, and project management. High-level managerial and analytical capabilities. Ability to analyze financial data and develop strategies. Capacity to lead and manage interdisciplinary teams. Proficiency in representing the organization, building alliances, and negotiation. Ability to cultivate partnerships and maintain interpersonal relations. Skill in managing competing priorities under pressure. Expert knowledge of English.