ABOUT US
The WHO Foundation (WHOF), launched in May 2020 and headquartered in Geneva, is an independent Swiss foundation affiliated with, yet distinct from, the World Health Organization (WHO). Our mission is to mobilize increased private capital and partnerships to advance the work of WHO, enabling a catalytic impact on the millions whose lives depend on its initiatives. We also aim to facilitate innovation to maximize the effectiveness of the resources we invest.
WHO plays a unique role in leading the global health ecosystem, acting as a first-responder to health crises, including cross-border conflicts and outbreaks in underserved communities. It produces technical guidelines and tools to prevent and treat diseases while fostering trust and collaboration at the country level. The crises of the 21st century, especially COVID-19, have highlighted the inequities in access to effective and affordable healthcare, underscoring WHO’s indispensable role. However, WHO currently lacks the necessary resources to fulfill its mandate solely through public sector funding.
Thus, the WHO Foundation was established to mobilize new resources from philanthropists, foundations, businesses, and individuals to support this vital mission: to promote health, ensure the safety of the world, and serve the vulnerable, all while protecting WHO’s neutrality and independence as the leading global health authority. WHOF acts as a hub for transformative opportunities in global health, bridging innovative partnerships between the private sector and WHO. Our primary focus is on generating grant income and strategic partnerships to bolster WHO’s initiatives.
PURPOSE
The Head of Special Projects will serve as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the CEO, leading high-priority initiatives across the Foundation. This role intersects strategy, project management, and executive support, providing analytical insights, coordinating across functions, and serving as a thought partner to advance the Foundation’s global mission.
This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic professional with a passion for global health and exceptional analytical skills to influence strategic decision-making at the highest levels of the organization.
REPORTS TO
The Head of Special Projects will report directly to the CEO of the WHO Foundation and collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders on various subject matters.
ACCOUNTABILITIES & FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Project Management
- Lead special projects that strategically impact the Foundation through collaboration across various functions and coordination with multiple leaders and stakeholders, including those from WHO.
- Create robust execution plans aligned with the strategic vision alongside leadership teams to achieve the Foundation's mission and goals.
- Monitor progress toward key deliverables and provide updates to the CEO on challenges and opportunities.
- Develop comprehensive business cases and strategic plans for high-impact initiatives.
Support in Strengthening WHO and Donor Relationships
- Coordinate and facilitate high-level meetings and joint initiatives with WHO representatives.
- Prepare briefing materials, presentations, and reports for the CEO's engagements with WHO.
- Stay informed on WHO priorities and initiatives, in partnership with the Strategic Engagement team, identifying potential collaboration opportunities.
Communication and Liaison
- Serve as a key point of contact between the executive team and both internal and external stakeholders.
- Facilitate effective communication within the Foundation and with external partners.
- Oversee the drafting of correspondence, briefing notes, talking points, and reports for the CEO's signature or clearance.
Decision Support
- Gather and analyze data to provide insights for informed decision-making.
- Analyze trends to support strategic decisions that align with the Foundation's objectives.
- Apply creative problem-solving techniques and conduct risk analysis throughout the Foundation's projects.
Project Management
- Oversee special projects or initiatives on behalf of the executive management team.
PROFILE
- 5 years of relevant experience in the Global Health Fundraising sector, with extensive research and consulting experience in global settings.
- Experience in a Global South country is an advantage.
- Significant expertise in strategy, analysis, project management, and execution.
- Strong skills in data analysis, business modeling, and scenario planning.
- Expertise in managing and evolving partnerships with multiple stakeholders.
- High-impact communicator with the ability to engage and stimulate ideas among others.
- Capacity to build relationships with a diverse array of individuals and organizations.
- Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, partnerships, and external relations.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion with proven leadership in a multicultural environment.
- Outstanding communication and negotiation abilities, capable of interacting with a wide range of stakeholders.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Rewarding work in a dynamic and innovative non-profit environment with growth and learning opportunities.
- A collaborative workplace within a truly global team.
- An agile, fast-moving, and flexible environment.
- Potential to leverage a multinational name and organization in collaboration with WHO.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Type of contract: Permanent
- Location: Geneva (relocation may be required)
- Working rate: 100%
- Estimated start date: ASAP
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
The WHO Foundation prioritizes equity in all its efforts and is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Employment and advancement opportunities are based on individual qualifications, regardless of gender, color, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, nationality, cultural and religious background, beliefs, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, or marital status. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.