DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Within the context of the European Programme of Work, the purpose of the post is to coordinate health literacy and behavioural and cultural insights-related work at regional level and in close collaboration with Member States. The aim of this work is to explore, document and disseminate the value of this work in improving health access, in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours and a culture of health and in equitably extending the benefits of health services, prevention and treatment. This includes project coordination, formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation in close contact with country focal points, researchers and partners. In addition, the post involves liaising with multiple stakeholders and partners at national, regional and global levels. 

Key duties: 

Work with Member States and WHO Country Offices to plan and implement in-country and inter-country behavioural and cultural insights research and projects, including related to health literacy, which aim to strengthen the experience and expertise in Member States to identify barriers and drivers to healthy practices and to leverage such insights for effective health policies and programmes and document their impact. This involves providing technical support, and coordinating the planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and documentation of projects in collaboration with Member States, WHO colleagues and partners. Help build capacity in Member States through engagement as a planner and facilitators in workshops and training activities conducted by the BCI. Help with developing guidance documents, policy recommendations, evidence mappings, case studies and toolkits, drawing on behavioural and cultural insights, not limited to but with a particular focus on health literacy. With the aim to build even stronger and more coordinated effort among stakeholders in this field, liaise and build partnerships with international organizations, development agencies, civil society organizations, WHO Collaborating Centres and other academic institutions, private sector and public health institutes as well as with WHO at all levels and in all regions. Promote the use of behavioural and cultural insights methods and approaches, including with a focus on health literacy, through advocacy with peers in Member States and among partners, through representing WHO at conferences, scientific meetings and other events, and through contributing to the promotion, dissemination and communication of BCI work and new evidence. Contribute to the WHO emergency effort through applying behavioural and cultural insights methods in health emergency response and preparedness work.Perform other duties as required.
 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: University degree (Bachelor's level) within the fields of humanities, public health, or social science, psychology, anthropology, sociology, international development, or another relevant field.
Desirable: University degree (Master's level) or training in any of the above fields.

Experience

Essential: At least five years' experience working in fields relevant to behavioural and cultural insights, health literacy and/or public health at national or international levels.
Desirable: Demonstrated experience working with(in) WHO, the UN at national, regional and/or global level, or in multi and/or bilateral agencies active in the health sector. 

Experience working in/with national health ministry or agency.
 

Skills

In-depth knowledge of applying social science and behavioural and cultural insights methods and approaches, including health literacy. Demonstrated knowledge of health systems and contexts of countries in the WHO European Region. Ability to take responsibility for own work, handle problems effectively and deliver high quality results. Excellent interpersonal communication, written communication and presentation skills. Ability and willingness to work in a team with other professionals of different nationalities and cultures, to support and encourage colleagues and to stay positive in the face of challenges. Emotional intelligence; Ability to identify and manage one's own emotions, as well as helping others to do the same.
 

WHO Competencies

Teamwork
Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
Communication
Knowing and managing yourself
Producing results

Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English and Russian.
Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French and/or German.