Technical Officer, Climate-Resilient Sustainable Food Systems
Organizational Context
The WHO Asia-Pacific Centre for Environment and Health (ACE) generates scientific information, monitors trends, and analyzes evidence to support advocacy, programs, policies, and actions on urban and island health, environment, and climate change. It assists Member States in developing policies and building capacity, and engages with stakeholders to accelerate policy and action on climate and health.
Job Purpose
This role provides technical input to the work programme on sustainable food systems, environment, and health, assisting in the implementation of related policies and programs. It involves conducting research and analysis on food systems, environmental health, and climate-related public health topics, including dietary patterns. The position contributes to developing technical guidance, policy documents, and national/regional strategies to strengthen public health policies and systems, focusing on sustainable diets and food systems transformation. It also involves monitoring workplans, analyzing data, supporting knowledge sharing, and participating in capacity-building activities.
Responsibilities
Provide technical input to the work programme on sustainable food systems, environment, and health, and assist in the implementation of related policies and programmes. Undertake research and analysis on food systems, environmental health, climate-related public health topics, and dietary patterns. Draft, review, and develop technical guidance, policy documents, and strategies, providing recommendations to strengthen public health policies and systems. Monitor workplans and budgets, and follow up on planned activities. Conduct data analysis and synthesize evidence on best practices for sustainable and climate-resilient public health systems, supporting knowledge sharing. Participate in capacity-building activities. Analyze and evaluate programme implementation, contributing to technical reports and policy recommendations. Support stakeholder engagement and outreach. Serve as a technical resource on food systems, environment, and health. Contribute to developing and managing partnerships.
Work Experience
At least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in supporting public health programs related to food systems, environmental health, or similar areas, including policy/strategy development. Experience in an international and multidisciplinary environment is required. Experience at the country level and with UN agencies or international organizations is desirable.
Skills
Knowledge of country-level contexts in sustainable food systems, environmental health, and climate change; understanding of WHO policies and procedures; ability to conduct research and analysis; ability to develop policies and strategies; interpersonal skills (tact, patience, courtesy); public speaking; excellent drafting and communication skills; teamwork; respect for diversity; producing results; building partnerships; team spirit; time management.