Chief of Health
Location: Nigeria
About UNICEF
Operating in over 190 countries and territories, UNICEF is dedicated to saving children’s lives, protecting their rights, and supporting their development from early childhood to adolescence.
At UNICEF, our work is more than a job—it’s a mission driven by passion and purpose. We are proud of the impact we make and are deeply committed to promoting the rights and well-being of every child.
As an organization, we provide our staff with diverse opportunities for both personal and professional growth, enabling them to build fulfilling careers while contributing to meaningful work. Our supportive culture and attractive compensation package ensure that our employees thrive while making a difference.
For Every Child, Health
UNICEF’s core mission is to uphold the rights of every child globally, ensuring they survive, thrive, and reach their full potential. Our work is guided by the principle of equity—ensuring that the most marginalized and disadvantaged children and families are prioritized in our programs and initiatives.
Equity means giving every child an equal opportunity to succeed, without discrimination, bias, or favoritism. Disparities in access to education, healthcare, and protection violate children’s rights and hinder social and economic development. Research demonstrates that investing in the health, education, and protection of the most disadvantaged individuals leads to sustainable growth and stability for communities and nations.
Visit our website to learn more about UNICEF’s global impact and our work in Nigeria.
How You Can Make a Difference
The Chief of Health will report to the Deputy Representative, receiving overall guidance and direction. This role involves overseeing and managing all phases of UNICEF’s health programs and projects—including gender equity, maternal and child health, neonatal survival, and emergency preparedness.
The Chief of Health will lead the health team, setting actionable plans to achieve measurable and sustainable results. These efforts will align with results-based management principles (RBM), UNICEF’s strategic priorities, and performance accountability standards, while working closely with the Regional Health Adviser.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Management: Provide strategic leadership in health programming, ensuring alignment with UNICEF’s goals and operational plans.
- Program Development and Planning: Design, plan, and refine health programs to deliver impactful results for children and communities.
- Program Oversight: Monitor program performance, maintain quality control, and ensure delivery meets objectives and compliance standards.
- Technical Support and Advisory Services: Offer expert guidance on health issues, supporting program implementation and policy development.
- Advocacy and Partnerships: Build strong networks, mobilize resources, and collaborate with partners to advance health initiatives.
- Innovation and Capacity Building: Foster a culture of innovation, share knowledge, and build capacities to enhance program effectiveness.
To view the full job description, download the Terms of Reference document.
Requirements to Advocate for Every Child
Education
An advanced degree in a relevant field, such as public health, pediatric or family health, health policy and management, epidemiology, biostatistics, socio-medical sciences, or global health. A medical degree is also acceptable.
Experience
- At least 10 years of professional experience in public health planning, maternal and neonatal health, or humanitarian preparedness at the international level.
- Experience working in developing countries is preferred.
- Experience in a UN agency or similar international organization is an asset.
Languages
- Fluency in English is required.
- Proficiency in another UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is an advantage.
Core Values and Competencies
UNICEF’s values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS) guide everything we do. Learn more about our Values Charter.
Key competencies for this role include:
- Building and maintaining partnerships
- Demonstrating self-awareness and ethical behavior
- Driving results for impact
- Embracing innovation and change
- Managing complexity and ambiguity
- Strategic thinking and action
- Collaborative teamwork
- Leading and nurturing people
Familiarize yourself with our Competency Framework.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNICEF is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality. Flexible working arrangements, parental leave, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available.
Integrity and Safeguarding
UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination. We are committed to protecting children and require all staff to adhere to our safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background and reference checks.
Conditions of Employment
Employment is contingent upon medical clearance, visa issuance (where applicable), and adherence to vaccination requirements, including COVID-19, unless medically exempt. Government employees must resign from their current positions before joining UNICEF.
Important Notes
- No fees are charged at any stage of UNICEF’s recruitment process.
- UNICEF values mobility as a key component of its international professional workforce.
Ready to make an impact? Join us at UNICEF and help create a brighter future for every child
