About the opportunity
The Division of Health Systems supports countries in developing resilient, people-centred health systems that ensure access to the right care at the right time without financial hardship. The Health Workforce and Service Delivery unit provides technical support across hospital, rehabilitation, long-term, and palliative care while leveraging AI and digital tools. As Regional Adviser, you will ensure strategic leadership and capacity for WHO/Europe in health workforce and health service delivery as enablers for Universal Health Coverage. You will advise Member States on developing and implementing national policies, strategies, and tools regarding human resources for health, lead regional strategy development, oversee the generation and dissemination of evidence, and build effective partnerships with international stakeholders.
Salary and benefits
- Annual base salary starting at USD 103,165 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension and health insurance)
- Variable post adjustment reflecting cost of living in the duty station, currently amounting to USD 6,413 per month
- 30 days of annual leave
- Allowances for dependent family members and home leave
- Education grant for dependent children
- Parental leave and attractive flexible work arrangements
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (Master's) in health systems management, medicine, nursing, public health, social sciences, or related subjects (Doctorate in health systems, public health, health policy, political science, or health economics is desirable)
- At least 10 years of combined national and international working experience in health systems, including specific expertise in health workforce and health services
- Senior leadership position in public administration or relevant international institutions
- Experience advising on policy issues related to health systems and health workforce issues in lower- and middle-income countries
- Experience in health systems and health workforce analysis, planning, management, and research, alongside at least 10 years of project and program management including resource mobilization
- Proven track record of publishing in peer-reviewed international journals on health systems, health workforce, and service delivery
- Expert knowledge of English
Required documents
- Scanned copies of required degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) (required in advance if candidate is retained for an interview)
- Updated vaccination card (required during medical clearance process)
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: August 28, 2026
- Closing Date: September 27, 2026, 9:59 PM UTC
How to apply
- Access the official WHO career portal online via the job application link.
- Review the candidate instructions guide if needed.
- Submit your online application before the stated closing date.
Additional information
- Contract duration is a 2-year fixed-term appointment.
- A written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment may be used as a screening tool.
- Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
- Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO.
- WHO is a smoke-free environment and does not recruit users of tobacco.
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…
- Senior health policy experts with over 10 years of international experience in health systems management.
- Professionals with a proven track record of publishing peer-reviewed research on health workforce and service delivery.
- Leaders experienced in advising lower- and middle-income countries on national health strategies.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a two-year fixed-term appointment, which may require careful planning for long-term career stability.
- Relocation to Copenhagen is required, and candidates should consider the cost of living adjustments provided by the post adjustment.
- The role involves a rigorous screening process, including potential written tests and video assessments.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is ideal for a seasoned public health professional aiming to influence regional health policy at a high level. It offers a unique opportunity to lead strategic initiatives for Universal Health Coverage and build international partnerships, making it a strong step for those looking to transition from national-level administration to a prominent global health leadership position.
Our take
This position is best suited for established senior experts in health systems; those without extensive leadership or publication experience may find the requirements challenging.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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