Director, Office of Internal Oversight Services

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES Provide strategic leadership and direction to the integrated internal oversight function of WHO, ensuring alignment with the Organization's IOS Charter, strategic priorities and operational independence. Leads the articulation of a clear departmental vision in coherence with organizational strategy and ensure its operationalization through robust departmental performance management practices that drive measurable results and enhance overall organizational effectiveness. Provide the overall leadership, management accountability and direction of the Department in developing and coordinating risk-based programme of internal audit, investigations, and evaluations across all WHO entities, including IARC and UNAIDS. Provides senior level technical advice and expertise to Senior Management in internal oversight (audit, evaluation, investigation) in order to position the Organization as a leader in accountability and transparency. Manage the implementation of biennial work plans and reporting for internal oversight ensuring their review by the Executive Board and execution in accordance with professional standards and WHO's strategic instruments. Oversee the implementation of WHO's Framework for strengthening evaluation and organizational learning, including governance, capacity building, work planning, recommendation tracking, and communication. Oversee the implementation of the internal audit work plan. Evaluate the effectiveness and maturity of WHO's risk management, internal control, and governance systems, and recommend remedial actions to address weaknesses. Lead proactive and reactive investigations into allegations of misconduct, fraud, corruption, harassment, and abuse, ensuring adherence to professional standards and due process. Ensure the preparation of clear, non-biased, evidence-based reports and recommendations for senior management and governing bodies and monitor the implementation and impact of follow-up actions. Promote the integrity and use of internal oversight findings to enhance policy, improve programme performance, and foster a culture of accountability, trust and organizational learning. Provide advisory services to WHO management on governance, risk, and control issues, without compromising the independence of the oversight function. Provide strategic direction and oversight for the Department managing human and financial resources of the office, ensuring a high-performing, multidisciplinary team and a culture of integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement. Represent WHO in inter-agency internal oversight forums, including the United Nations Evaluation Group (UNEG), the United Nations Representatives of Internal Audit Services (UNRIAS), the United Nations Representatives of Investigation Services (UNRIS) and collaborate with other UN oversight bodies on shared initiatives. Coordinate with the External Auditor, Independent Expert Oversight Advisory Committee (IEOAC), and other accountability entities to ensure coherence and avoid duplication of efforts. Report regularly to PBAC, EB, and WHA. Communicate internal oversight results effectively to internal and external stakeholders, including Member States, donors, and governing bodies, to build trust and transparency. Uphold and ensure compliance with relevant ethical codes and professional standards and maintain the operational independence of the internal oversight functions (audit, evaluation, investigation). Provide strategic leadership to foster cross-departmental and cross-divisional collaboration, aligning organizational priorities to maximize synergies and impact. Strengthen institutional coherence by integrating efforts across HQ, regional, and country levels.  REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education Essential : An advanced university degree in law, business/public administration, or related field relevant to the functions of the position.Desirable :  Professional certifications such as CPA, CIA, CFE, or equivalent in audit, investigation, evaluation.  A PhD in one of the above-mentioned fields.  Additional training in public health or international development.  Experience Essential :  A minimum of 15 years of professional experience in the management of audit, and/or investigation, and/or evaluation, including experience providing senior level advice and guidance to Senior Management/Decision makers, managing human and financial resources, as well as experience in the area of developing and establishing policies and strategies.  Demonstrated experience at the international level. Desirable :  Experience in legal oversight roles within large organizations.  Experience in the UN system or multilateral organizations.  Experience in developing countries and with oversight information systems.  Skills Strong skills in the area of developing and establishing internal oversight (audit, evaluation, investigation) and other accountability related polices and strategies. Excellent skills and ability in managing diverse teams and financial resources. Strong understanding and skills in mobilizing resources. Ability to engage, build consensus and communicate effectively and diplomatically with Member States, partners and media.  Globally respected level of technical expertise and knowledge in Internal Oversight Services (audit, evaluation, investigation). Proven leadership skills in the planning and coordination of multidisciplinary public. Proven expertise in audit, evaluation and, investigation methodologies. Strong skills in accountability and confidentiality. Strong leadership and strategic thinking in complex, multicultural environments. Ability to manage sensitive investigations and communicate findings credibly. Skilled in promoting organizational learning and influencing policy. Excellent negotiation, facilitation, and presentation skills. High ethical standards and sound professional judgment.  WHO Competencies Teamwork Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences Communication Ensuring the effective use of resources Producing results Creating an empowering and motivating environment Use of Language Skills Essential : Expert knowledge of English.Desirable :  Intermediate knowledge of French.  Intermediate knowledge of other UN Languages.