About the opportunity
The objective of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme is to safeguard global health security by strengthening the capacity of all countries and communities to prevent, prepare for, detect, and respond to a broad spectrum of health emergencies. The Epidemic and Pandemic Management department is responsible for enhancing global health security through strategic leadership, evidence-driven guidance, and multisectoral partnerships. The Team Lead will provide technical leadership and managerial support within the Department regarding access and benefit sharing (ABS), as exemplified by the implementation of the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework, and will develop policies for the synergistic implementation of the PIP Framework and the WHO Pandemic Agreement.
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, currently amounting to USD 7,798 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?
- An advanced university degree (Master's level degree) in law and admission or certification of admission to practice law (e.g., bar exam, law society)
- A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional legal experience, including providing legal, policy, or regulatory advice in an international, governmental, or intergovernmental context
- Demonstrated experience engaging with the private sector, including drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements, licensing agreements, or public-private partnership agreements
- Proven experience in dispute resolution, including international arbitration, mediation, or handling contract-related disputes involving multiple stakeholders
- Experience managing human and financial resources within cross-disciplinary and multicultural environments
- International experience involving interaction with private-sector manufacturers, counsel, Member States, and multilateral stakeholders
- Expert knowledge of English
Required documents
- Scanned copies of required university degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) if retained for an interview
- Updated vaccination card during the medical clearance process
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: August 21, 2026
- Closing Date: September 11, 2026, at 9:59 PM
How to apply
- Prepare your candidate profile and application documents online via the WHO Careers portal
- Submit your application through the official online vacancy notice before the deadline
- Complete any required written tests, asynchronous video assessments, or interviews if contacted
Additional information
- This is a fixed-term appointment for 2 years at Grade P5 located in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO.
- A written test and/or asynchronous video assessment may be used as part of the screening process.
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…
- Advanced law degree with active bar admission or equivalent certification
- Over 10 years of legal experience in international or governmental contexts
- Proven ability to negotiate complex commercial and partnership agreements
- Experience in dispute resolution and managing cross-disciplinary teams
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a P5-level, fixed-term appointment based in Geneva
- International mobility is a condition of employment for this role
- The position requires high-level engagement with private-sector manufacturers and multilateral stakeholders
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is designed for a senior legal expert looking to shape global health policy and access-to-medicine frameworks. It provides a platform to lead critical negotiations that impact pandemic preparedness at the highest level.
Our take
An excellent opportunity for senior legal professionals with experience in international commercial law and public-private partnerships who are seeking to influence global health security.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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