Regional Adviser (Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity)
Organizational Context
The WHO Prevention and Health Promotion Division spearheads efforts in the European Region to foster healthy environments and prevent premature disease and death. It focuses on scaling up evidence-based interventions to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors, aligning with SDG target 3.4. The Division builds political commitment, develops strategies, provides technical assistance, and facilitates knowledge sharing.
Job Purpose
This role provides strategic planning, leadership, and authoritative advice to Member States on promoting nutrition and physical activity, and tackling obesity. It involves leading horizontal coordination of technical work across the Organization, focusing on integrating physical activity, nutrition, and food systems for optimal NCD prevention. The position aims to mobilize partners to promote physical activity in all settings and across the life course, and to reduce sedentary behavior, which is an independent risk factor for NCDs.
Responsibilities
Provide expert advice to Member States on policies and priorities for nutrition, physical activity, and obesity prevention, leading NCD prevention efforts. Develop and implement integrated, multi-sectoral approaches for nutrition and obesity activities, aligning with regional action plans. Represent WHO Europe in relevant forums, liaising with national authorities and partners. Lead horizontal coordination of technical work on NCD risk factors, promoting healthy diets. Develop tools and advise on evidence-based policies and plans for national NCD prevention, integrating interventions within health systems. Coordinate uptake of WHO tools, facilitate information gathering, and finalize technical documents. Guide joint initiatives with professional societies and collaborating centers. Develop and coordinate strategic initiatives for childhood obesity, including surveillance. Convene regional stakeholders and manage partnerships for novel prevention approaches. Serve as WHO focal point for relevant European networks. Mobilize partners to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary time. Identify donor opportunities and monitor technical area performance.
Work Experience
Essential: At least 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in public health programs, particularly NCDs, nutrition, physical activity, or obesity at national and international levels. Demonstrated experience in implementing or advising on nutrition and physical activity promotion, and supporting evidence-based policies and intersectoral capacity building. Desirable: Experience with WHO, UN agencies, international institutions, NGOs, private sector, and government ministries.
Skills
Demonstrated knowledge of global and regional public health aspects of nutrition, physical activity, obesity, and NCDs. Expert knowledge in NCD prevention and control. In-depth understanding of political, social, and health systems in the WHO European Region. Strong diplomatic and negotiation skills. Ability to work with minimal supervision. Emotional intelligence and awareness.