DUTY STATION
Geneva, Switzerland
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTY
To be determined NATURE OF APPOINTMENT
Fixed-term - 1 year
Organizational Unit
Joint Climate Health Office - Division of Meteorological and Sectoral Services - Department of Science, Services and Capacity Development WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age after 1 January 2014 is 65. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete the term of appointment will normally be considered. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
ARE YOU A VISIONARY LEADER READY TO SHAPE THE INTERSECTION OF CLIMATE AND HEALTH?
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) seeks an exceptional and innovative leader to serve as Chief of the WHO-WMO Joint Office for Climate and Health and Technical Support Unit of the Global Heat Health Information Network. This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the most critical and rapidly expanding areas of international cooperation, where meteorological expertise meets public health imperatives.
TRANSFORM GLOBAL HEALTH THROUGH CLIMATE LEADERSHIP
As Chief, you will spearhead groundbreaking initiatives that directly impact millions of lives worldwide. This role offers the rare opportunity to build and lead a dynamic, growing program at the forefront of climate-health integration, working at the highest levels of international cooperation between two premier UN agencies.
YOUR LEADERSHIP IMPACT
Under the direct supervision of the Director for Meteorological and Sectoral Services, this senior leadership role offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth and global impact in a rapidly evolving field:
a) SHAPE INNOVATIVE CLIMATE-HEALTH PROGRAMMS that define global standards and drive WMO's Strategic Plan implementation;
b) MANAGE PRESTIGIOUS PARTNERSHIPS with WHO and leading global health actors while representing WMO on the international stage;
c) LEAD DIVERSE INTERNATIONAL TEAMS across multiple workstreams, fostering collaboration and driving performance excellence;
d) SET TECHNICAL STANDARDS through expert guidance to SERCOM subsidiary bodies and development of normative materials;
e) OVERSEE STRATEGIC RESOURCES including budget management, extrabudgetary projects, and results-based performance systems.
WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS NOW
Climate change is intensifying health risks globally, making the intersection of meteorological services and public health more critical than ever. As Chief, you will be at the epicenter of developing solutions that protect vulnerable populations, guide national meteorological and health services, and shape international policy responses to climate-related health challenges.
This is more than a position - it's an opportunity to build a lasting legacy in global health and climate resilience while leading one of WMO's most dynamic and impactful growth areas.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Master's degree or equivalent in public health. A first-level university degree or equivalent in combination with two years of additional directly relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the master's degree. A medical degree or doctorate in public health or medicine would be an additional advantage.
Experience
- A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in the development and application of climate services for health, global climate and health policy, technical expertise in extreme heat science and risk reduction.
- General understanding of WMO programmes and bodies. Specific understanding of the WMO Technical Commissions mandates, areas and methods of work would be an advantage.
- Strong understanding of the WMO and also the World Health Organizations technical and policy priorities, and institutional and programmatic operations, an advantage.
Other requirements
YOUR PROFILE
We seek a proven leader with:
- Demonstrated innovation in program development and strategic thinking
- Exceptional leadership skills with experience managing diverse, international teams
- Strong background in climate science, meteorology, public health, or related fields
- Proven track record in high-level partnership management and institutional relationships
- Experience in international organizations or complex multi-stakeholder environments
- Outstanding communication skills and ability to represent organizations at the highest levels
COMPETENCIES
The Chief, Joint Climate and Health Office position must demonstrate managerial-level proficiency in the following competencies:
- Communication & Influence
- Collaboration & Team Dynamics
- Inclusive Mindset & Cultural Awareness
- Decision Making & Problem Solving
- Integrity & Accountability
- Innovation & Digital Agility
- Stakeholder Understanding & Engagement
Languages
Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.
(Note: The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.) The position is funded from regular budget.
New appointments on fixed-term contract of one year or more shall be subject to an initial one-year probation period. SALARY AND ALLOWANCES
Annual net base salary on initial appointment is: US$ 101540
Annual post adjustment on initial salary is: US$ 90066 (in addition to the net base salary) Additional Information:
Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system at https://erecruit.wmo.int/public.
Do not send your application via multiple routes. Only applicants in whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview. Date of issue of vacancy notice: 22 August 2025