Operations Officer
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme aims to support countries and coordinate international efforts in preventing, preparing for, detecting, responding to, and recovering from health emergencies. This role is integral to the programme's operations within the AF_GNB Guinea Bissau department, contributing to the effective management of resources during critical health situations.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this role is to provide essential administrative and operational support to WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, ensuring the efficient management of human, financial, and material resources. The incumbent will facilitate the implementation of emergency preparedness, response, and recovery activities by managing budgets, supporting HR functions, overseeing procurement, and ensuring compliance with WHO policies and procedures. This position plays a crucial part in enabling the programme to effectively assist countries and coordinate international actions during outbreaks and health emergencies, ultimately contributing to the protection of public health.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include adapting and implementing administrative procedures for resource management (human, financial, material) in compliance with WHO policies and SOPs. This involves supporting budget formulation, managing funding allocations, tracking financial implementation, and reporting on expenditures. The role also entails providing administrative support for emergency operations, including proposal initiation and follow-up on donor reporting. Furthermore, it involves managing a range of HR services, such as staff deployment, recruitment, and administrative support for responders. Procurement of services and supplies, inventory management, and asset management are also key duties. In certain situations, the role may include liaising with security bodies to ensure staff safety and managing IT support services. The incumbent will also consolidate audit responses and follow up on recommendations, performing other incident-specific duties as assigned.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of relevant experience in management and administration, including staff supervision, at both national and international levels is required. Experience supporting emergency or health outbreak operations is essential. Experience in developing countries and prior humanitarian work at the field level with international organizations is desirable.
Skills
Proficiency in administrative and management principles (HR, Finance, Budget, Procurement, Security). Strong time management and ability to work under pressure. Demonstrated independent judgment and decision-making. Advanced leadership, coaching, and motivation skills. Ability to translate requirements into practical solutions. Expert English and Portuguese language skills are essential; intermediate French is desirable.