Deputy Country Head in WHO for India

Drive Global Health Impact: WHO Seeks Deputy Head for India Country Office

New Delhi, India – The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively searching for a highly skilled and committed Deputy Head for its India Country Office in New Delhi. This senior-level P6 fixed-term appointment presents a significant opportunity for a public health leader to influence national health objectives and contribute to worldwide public health initiatives.

This pivotal role involves fostering strong collaboration between the WHO Secretariat and India. The successful candidate will work to align WHO's global leadership priorities with India's national health policies, strategies, and plans, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Framework (UNSOF). This critical synergy is essential for enhancing WHO's effectiveness and ensuring its continued relevance at the country level.

A Leadership Role with Extensive Influence

Reporting directly to the WHO Representative to India (WR India), the Deputy Head will be an integral part of the Country Office's management, program, and human resource committees. The position demands a blend of strategic oversight, expert programmatic knowledge, and robust leadership.

Core responsibilities include:

• Strategic Health Program Guidance: Supporting the WR India in offering expert advice for the implementation of national public health policies and strategies.

• Performance and Compliance Oversight: Contributing to the comprehensive compliance and performance standards of the country office, including establishing work planning parameters and monitoring progress.

• Technical Program Leadership: Guiding the technical work of the Country Office and directly supervising team leaders to ensure technical initiatives align with national strategies and achieve desired outcomes, with a particular focus on critical health categories.

• Emergency Response and Recovery Support: Providing technical guidance and assistance to Member States and partners in regions affected by crises or undergoing early recovery.

• Resource Management Optimization: Facilitating the most effective use of WHO’s financial, technical, logistical, and human resources, adhering fully to organizational procedures.

• Reporting and Program Supervision: Overseeing the development and submission of monitoring and results reports at the country level.

• Representation and Stakeholder Engagement: Representing the WR India at official engagements with government officials, donors, UN agencies, and other key stakeholders, while also cultivating vital partnerships for strategic public health programs.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

Applicants for this esteemed position must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in fields such as Medicine, Public Health, Management, Social Sciences, or a related discipline. A PhD in Public Health Management, Social Science, or a related field, coupled with specialized training in epidemiology, health management, or public administration, is highly desirable.

Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in managing and developing technical public health programs, including substantial international experience gained within multilateral, bilateral, or other institutions. Demonstrated experience in leading diverse international teams is also mandatory.

Key skills required include:

• Exceptional ability to lead and manage large, diverse teams effectively.

• A proven track record in developing innovative solutions and approaches.

• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering collaborative teamwork, adapting to varied backgrounds, and upholding high personal conduct standards.

Expert knowledge of English is essential, and proficiency in other UN languages is considered an advantage.

Commitment to Inclusivity and Ethical Standards

WHO is deeply committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization actively encourages applications from women, individuals with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve gender parity and geographical diversity. Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request to facilitate participation in the recruitment process.

WHO maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive behavior. The organization emphasizes a safe and respectful workplace for all and conducts thorough background checks on final candidates to ensure the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct.

Remuneration and Application Process

The position offers an annual base salary starting at USD 116,095, in addition to a variable post adjustment, which currently stands at USD 3,299 per month for New Delhi. Comprehensive benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children.

The application deadline is July 9, 2025, at 3:29:00 AM IST. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to apply promptly to contribute to WHO’s vital mission in India and globally.

Apply Here