About the opportunity
As the strategic leader of WHO’s country presence, the WHO Representative (WR) represents the Director-General and Regional Director, serving as the senior representative, trusted adviser, and advocate for health. The incumbent positions WHO as a leading health authority through policy dialogue, high-level advocacy, and engagement with governments and partners. They promote Health in All Policies and whole-of-government approaches, navigating complex health, geopolitical, and financing environments. The role involves building consensus, safeguarding WHO’s neutrality and scientific integrity, and mobilizing expertise to support Member States. Additionally, the WR ensures sound stewardship, risk management, and the development of a high-performing, inclusive workforce, uniting global and regional capacities to achieve sustainable health outcomes.
Salary and benefits
- Annual base salary starting at USD 103,165 (P5), USD 117,953 (D1), or USD 130,477 (D2)
- Variable post adjustment
- 30 days of annual leave
- Allowances for dependent family members
- Home leave
- Education grant for dependent children
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree in public health, health sciences, health systems, or a medical-related field
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive relevant international experience in health-related fields
- At least two years of relevant country-level experience, including engagement with governments and external partners
- Expert knowledge of English
- Candidates must be available for a minimum of five years before mandatory retirement age
- Successful completion of a formal assessment is required for internationally recruited WR positions
Required documents
- Covering letter (mandatory)
- Scanned copies of required degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) (if selected for interview)
- Proof of vaccination as required by WHO
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by August 31, 2026, 9:59:00 PM
How to apply
- Submit an application online via the WHO career portal
- Include a mandatory covering letter
- Undergo screening which may include a written test and/or asynchronous video assessment
- Successful candidates will be added to a roster for future WR vacancies
Additional information
- Candidates already on the roster need not apply.
- Mobility is a condition of international professional employment; appointees may be assigned to any duty station worldwide.
- WHO conducts background verification of final candidates regarding history of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment.
- WHO is a smoke-free environment and does not recruit tobacco users.
- Reasonable accommodations are available for persons with disabilities during the recruitment 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…
- You possess an advanced degree in public health or a medical-related field.
- You have at least 10 years of progressive international experience in health-related fields.
- You have at least two years of country-level experience engaging with governments and partners.
What should you think carefully about?
- Mobility is a condition of employment; you must be prepared to be assigned to any duty station worldwide.
- You must be a non-smoker or non-user of tobacco products.
- Successful completion of a formal assessment is required for this roster-based position.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This talent pipeline is designed for seasoned leaders aiming to serve as WHO Representatives. It is the premier path for those looking to influence global health policy, manage country-level operations, and act as a senior advocate for health, providing a long-term career trajectory for those committed to international public health leadership.
Our take
This is a high-level opportunity for experienced international health leaders. It is less suitable for early-career professionals or those who are not prepared for global mobility and the rigors of senior-level diplomatic and technical representation.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
