About the opportunity
The Information and Digital Technology (IDT) department manages and advances WHO’s digital ecosystem, empowering the organization through harmonized, intelligent, user-centric, and secure digital solutions. The department’s core functions span infrastructure and cloud services, cybersecurity, data and artificial intelligence, digital workplace support, and enterprise systems. The Assistant to the Unit Head will provide comprehensive administrative support, including managing information flow, scheduling, correspondence, human resources coordination, procurement, budget monitoring, and meeting administration. The role requires high levels of discretion, organizational skill, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Salary and benefits
- Annual net base salary starting at MYR 67,070
- 30 days of annual leave
- Parental leave
- Flexible work arrangements
- Pension contributions and health insurance (subject to mandatory deductions)
Who can apply?
- Completion of secondary school education or equivalent
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in secretarial or administrative positions (or 4 years with a first-level university degree, or 3 years with an advanced university degree)
- Expert knowledge of English
- Must be recruited in the local commuting area of the duty station (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
- Must be a non-smoker or non-user of any form of tobacco
- Must be vaccinated as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment
Required documents
- Scanned copy of degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) (if retained for interview)
- Updated vaccination card (during medical clearance process)
When to apply
- Applications opened on August 19, 2026
- Application deadline is September 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM
How to apply
- Review the job description and requirements on the official WHO careers portal
- Follow the provided instructions for candidates to complete the online application
- Submit the application through the online system before the deadline
- Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for further screening, which may include a written test or asynchronous video assessment
Additional information
- This is a fixed-term appointment for 2 years, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and continuing need for the post.
- The position is subject to local recruitment.
- WHO conducts background verification of final candidates regarding history of sexual exploitation and abuse.
- Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
- Staff members separated due to the 2025 Prioritization and Realignment Process will receive special consideration.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You have at least 5 years of secretarial or administrative experience, or fewer years if you hold a university degree.
- You are a resident of the Kuala Lumpur commuting area.
- You possess expert knowledge of English and strong organizational skills for a fast-paced environment.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term, two-year appointment subject to local recruitment and mandatory pension and health insurance deductions.
- You must be a non-smoker or non-user of tobacco products.
- The role requires successful completion of background verification regarding sexual exploitation and abuse.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a stable, long-term administrative career path within a major international organization. It is ideal for someone looking to leverage their organizational and secretarial expertise to support high-level digital and information technology operations, providing a platform to develop skills in budget monitoring, HR coordination, and executive support.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for experienced administrative professionals in Kuala Lumpur looking for a stable, full-time role within the WHO. It is less suitable for those seeking remote work or those who do not meet the local recruitment requirement.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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