World Health Organization seeks to recruit a technical officer (Immunization) – (1805270) – Brazzaville, Congo

 

Objectives of the programme

To reduce morbidity and mortality due to vaccine preventable diseases by developing and implementing routine as well as supplementary immunization activities and to promote integration with other health programs and interventions. In line with the first strategic objective of the GVAP which states: All countries commit to immunization as a priority, NITAG are intended to make the best evidence-based national vaccination policies and recommendations.

Description of duties

The incumbent is assigned all or part of the following responsibilities which are performed according to the needs and agenda:To serve as focal point for NITAGs and other immunization committees such as ICC, HSCC, etc by working in close cooperation with other team members particularly those responsible for routine immunization, capacity building, surveillance, data and research.To provide technical assistance to countries for the establishment and strengthening of the NITAG, with first-line responsibility for guidelines and standard procedures for evidence based recommendations, close monitoring and documentation of the work of the NITAGs.To provide technical expertise to Member States and partners, regional and sub-regional and develop/revise training guidelines. Ensure optimal use of all available resources on immunization policy including NITAG resources and platform including the NITAG Resource center (NRC) and Global NITAG Network (GNN); and providing technical expertise and advice laboratory networks.To Liaise with WHO HQ to facilitate participation of NITAGs at SAGE and GNN meetings, identify priority countries and coordinate twinning opportunities; to participate in the quarterly NITAG partners call and the annual NITAG partners retreat, ensuring regional challenges are addressed and best practices are shared.To coordinate NITAG evaluations, including reviewing evaluation reports, sharing the reports with the NITAG partners group, and following up on the identified actions points with the country. Ensure that the NITAGs workplans are aligned with the recommendations from the evaluation reports.To encourage close collaboration at the regional, sub-regional and country levels, to promote information-sharing through video/tele-conferencing, informal consultations and, as required, interregional/ global meetings; ensuring regular reporting on the work of NITAGs including the preparation and submission of annual reports in the area of immunization policies.Within the delegated authority, to work in partnership to contribute expertise and technical information consistent with the needs of NITAG establishment/strengthening.To support the IVD coordinator in the development of work plans and budgetary proposals, as required.To collaborate to the elaboration and implementation of resource mobilization and advocacy strategies for sustainability of funding in immunization policies including NITAG.To perform other related responsibilities as assigned, including replacing and backstopping for others as required.

Required qualifications

Education

Essential : First University Degree in epidemiology or public health from a recognized University.
Desirable : Training in immunization, vaccinology and/or in other health/ Immunization related policy domain.

Experience

Essential : At least five years of experience in quantitative and qualitative research including conducting systematic reviews, public health research. Experience in developing or supporting countries to develop evidence-based Health and/ or immunization policies.
Desirable : Experience in policy formulation, strategic and policy planning, development/ support decision making based on evidence.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate and implement activities pertaining to health/immunization policies focusing on NITAGs and related training; monitoring and reporting on results, progress, lessons learnt and gaps. Proven track record in the development and implementation of norms and standards and effective reporting mechanisms and systems, and M&E.- Excellent communication and presentation skills with ability to write in a clear and concise manner and give technical advice and guidance taking into consideration the views of multiple stakeholders and partners in resource-limited contexts; and to participate in resource mobilization and advocacy activities. Proven interpersonal skills with ability to promote consensus, communicate progress and results, and resolve issues in a proactive manner, while ensuring effective work practices and ethics. Diplomacy, tact and courtesy.

WHO Competencies

• Teamwork ;
• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences ;
• Communication ;
• Producing results ;
• Ensuring the effective use of resources ;
• Creating an empowering and motivating environment.

Use of Language Skills

Essential : Expert knowledge of English or French with working knowledge of the other.
Desirable : Intermediate knowledge of Portuguese.