If you’re a health professional with a passion for international development and a desire to make a tangible difference in global health systems, there’s an exciting opportunity waiting in Maputo, Mozambique. The World Bank is seeking an experienced and dedicated Health Program Specialist to join its team on a four-year renewable contract. This role not only places you at the heart of impactful health initiatives but also positions you within a globally recognized institution known for driving socioeconomic development across the world.
Why This Role Matters
Public health plays a pivotal role in the development of any nation. In Mozambique, where access to quality health care and strong health infrastructure remains a work in progress, the World Bank continues to support efforts that strengthen the country’s health systems. By joining this mission, the Health Program Specialist will be instrumental in supporting projects that directly impact the health and well-being of millions.
This position is far more than a desk job — it’s about being in the field, participating in policy conversations, and contributing meaningfully to healthcare reform in a growing nation.
Key Responsibilities – Health Program Specialist with The World Bank
The Health Program Specialist will handle a range of duties, with a strong focus on program support, policy dialogue, and partnership development.
Detailed Overview of the Position:
1. Operational Support for Health Projects
You’ll be responsible for supporting the implementation and monitoring of health-related projects, both national and regional. This includes helping to manage ongoing health initiatives, offering technical guidance, and ensuring that project milestones are met in collaboration with Mozambique’s government bodies and international stakeholders.
2. Research and Analysis
A significant part of this role centers around supporting research-based insights and offering strategic guidance. This means participating in the preparation of health sector reports, offering insight on best practices, and working closely with policy teams to ensure evidence-based decision-making.
3. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
You will help organize training sessions, health policy workshops, and seminars aimed at building local capacity within Mozambique’s health sector. These activities will be conducted in collaboration with national institutions and regional health agencies.
4. Policy Engagement
Regular engagement with government representatives, both at the national and sub-national levels, will be part of your role. This includes contributing to discussions around healthcare reform, supporting strategy development, and offering input that helps shape policy decisions.
5. Strengthening Partnerships
As part of your responsibilities, you’ll foster working relationships with other teams within the World Bank and with external partners such as NGOs, development agencies, and community stakeholders. Your ability to coordinate across sectors will be crucial in driving collaborative success.
6. Preparing Reports and Briefs
Whether it’s a sector briefing or a project progress report, you’ll be expected to contribute to key documentation that keeps leadership informed and guides project adjustments.
7. Support During Missions
You will also participate in field missions alongside health specialists, providing logistical and technical support to ensure effective on-ground implementation and monitoring of projects.
8. General Administrative Support
Occasionally, you may be required to respond to information requests from both internal departments and external stakeholders. Flexibility and responsiveness are key traits for this aspect of the role.
Reporting Structure
The Health Program Specialist will be accountable to the Practice Manager overseeing Health, Nutrition, and Population programs in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. On a daily basis, however, you will work closely with project Task Team Leaders and the Human Development Program Leader in Mozambique to deliver results.
What You Need to Apply
Education and Experience
- Candidates must hold an advanced academic qualification—such as a Master’s degree or above—in Public Health, Nutrition, Population Studies, or a comparable area of study.
- At least 5–8 years of hands-on experience in managing or supporting public health initiatives is required.
- Experience in digital health systems, youth-focused health programs, or climate-related health challenges is considered an asset.
Key Competencies
- Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
- Proven ability to manage diverse tasks simultaneously and perform effectively in demanding or fast-paced settings.
- Experience preparing technical documents and reports.
- Proficiency in engaging in strategic discussions and translating data into actionable insights.
- Strong verbal and written communication capabilities are crucial for success in this role.
- Collaborative mindset with experience working in multicultural teams.
Additional Assets
- Previous work on World Bank or similar donor-funded projects is highly advantageous.
- Familiarity with World Bank operational policies, standards, and reporting frameworks.
- Work experience in sub-Saharan Africa, especially Mozambique, is considered a strong plus.
Position Details
- Type of Opportunity: Full-time, fixed-term contract (4 years), renewable.
- Location: Maputo, Mozambique
- Application Deadline: Rolling (priority consideration for applications submitted by October 31, 2023)
- Organization: The World Bank
Why Consider This Role?
- Global Impact: You’ll work with one of the world’s most influential financial institutions, shaping health policies that directly affect lives.
- Diverse Exposure: From engaging with government ministries to coordinating with international NGOs, the role offers wide-ranging interaction across sectors.
- Career Growth: With access to a network of experts, policy leaders, and research tools, this position is a great step forward for anyone looking to deepen their expertise in global health development.
- Purpose-Driven Work: If you’re passionate about health equity and want to be part of meaningful change, this is the opportunity for you.
Final Thoughts
Mozambique is a country on the path of growth and transformation, and health plays a foundational role in this journey. By becoming a Health Program Specialist with The World Bank, you’re not just advancing your career—you’re contributing to the well-being of communities and the development of a nation.
If you’re ready to take your health sector experience to a global stage, now’s the time to make your move. Submit your application early to be considered for this incredible opportunity in Maputo.
