Director, Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIESGeneric dutiesLead 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. Lead the Department in providing scientific, technical and policy expertise to Member States and other stakeholders with guidance and technical data required for the development, implementation, and monitoring of national and/or global policies and programmes. Provide the overall leadership, management accountability, and direction of the Department in delivering its objectives through managing and galvanizing a diverse workforce and financial resources to optimize the department's deliverables and mandate. Work with and facilitates collaboration across Departments and Divisions within HQ and with Regional Offices and Country Offices. Provide senior level technical advice and expertise to Executive Management and DG as appropriate in the assigned responsibilities to position the Department and Organization as a leader in the respective area.Provide strategic leadership to foster, encourage and facilitate cross-departmental, cross-divisional / clusters and across three-level collaboration, aligning organizational priorities to maximize synergies and impact.As appropriate integrate technological, digital and scientific advances into the work of the Department to ensure timely availability of information to Member States and ensure greater equity.Anticipate scientific and technological advances by working with the Member States, colleagues in WHO and the scientific community to prepare for the changing pattern of global health and ensure equitable and timely access to innovative public health and clinical interventions.Direct and lead overall establishment and development of the Department's evidence- based policies, strategies and WHO guidelines for roll-out and delivery for Regional and Country Office implementation.Oversee the monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the Department's area of work to develop key performance indicators and global reporting requirements and mechanisms to ensure optimal performance of the Department's deliverables.Serve as the scientific, technical and policy reference among UN Agencies and other key players in the respective areas.Build strong partnerships and fosters consensus building with External Partners, Member States, UN Agencies, Donors, cutting edge research institutions and other stakeholders in the subject area to politically position the technical area of work and implementation into national and global policies.Promote the integration of Regional and Country Office perspectives and operational capacities into the Department's programme area of work.Strengthen institutional coherence by integrating efforts across HQ, regional, and country levels. Champion collective action through coordinated resource mobilization, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional initiatives.Lead and coordinate resource mobilization efforts that are designed to strengthen WHO's presence and impact at regional and country levels, ensuring that newly secured resources are strategically aligned with field organization wide priorities, operational needs and budgets.Perform all other related duties as assigned.Specific dutiesOversee global surveillance and monitoring of NCDs and mental health to support data-driven policy and planning.Develop and support the implementation of WHO guidelines, norms, and standards on NCDs and mental health.Strengthen country capacities to apply evidence-based policies and integrate NCD and mental health services into health systems.Guide the development and monitoring of national action plans focused on prevention, early detection, treatment, and integrated care.Collaborate across WHO departments and with partners to integrate public health and clinical interventions. Anticipate global trends in NCDs and mental health to ensure equitable access to services and interventions.Streamline technical products to improve quality and reduce duplication.Drive research, innovation, and resource mobilization aligned with WHO's core mandates.Represent WHO in global forums to reinforce leadership in NCD and mental health response. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSEducationEssential: An advanced level university degree in medicine, science, global health, epidemiology, public health, health economy, or fields strongly related to the department's portfolio in NCDs and Mental Health. Specialized training in diverse range of Noncommunicable diseases and Mental Health.Desirable: A PhD in one of the above-mentioned fields. ExperienceEssential: A minimum of 15 years of professional experience in the management of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health. Senior-level experience advising decision-makers and guiding strategic direction. Proven ability to lead diverse, multidisciplinary teams and manage financial resources. Strong background in analyzing scientific evidence to inform strategies and policies. Extensive international experience collaborating with governments, UN agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. Skilled in managing complex partnerships and advocating for multisectoral NCD and mental health policies. Demonstrated success in designing and implementing community-based interventions to reduce NCD burden and improve mental health outcomes.Desirable: Experience in conducting or coordinating operational research in the relevant technical areas. SkillsGlobally recognized expertise in NCDs and mental health, including prevention, management, surveillance, and policy development. Proven leadership in large-scale public health initiatives and implementation of WHO strategies and policies. Strong background in research, innovation, and improving access to new technologies and interventions. Experience in sensory impairments, oral health, rehabilitation, and disability within the broader NCD framework. Skilled in managing diverse teams and financial resources with empathy and effectiveness. Demonstrated ability to mobilize resources and build consensus with Member States, partners, and stakeholders. Excellent communication and collaboration skills across WHO and external partners. Ability to anticipate scientific advances and ensure equitable, timely access to interventions. WHO CompetenciesTeamworkRespecting and promoting individual and cultural differencesCommunicationEnsuring the effective use of resourcesDriving the Organization's Position in Health LeadershipCreating an empowering and motivating environmentUse of Language SkillsEssential: Expert knowledge of English.Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French. Intermediate knowledge of Another UN language.