WHOSenior (P-5+)Health

Preparation Guide

WHO health emergency Lead (P-5) — WHO

20 days until deadline (25 September 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (P-5), contract type (Staff), and WHO's typical recruitment process.

Apply20d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Apply
20d left
Screening
2-4 weeks
Assessment
2-4 weeks
References
1-2 weeks
Offer
2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 3-6 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message and what was the outcome?
CoreTeamwork
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a situation where you worked with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds to achieve a shared goal. What was your specific contribution?
FunctionalInnovation
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about an innovative approach or tool you introduced in your work. How did you get buy-in and what changed as a result?

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

InnovationMonitoring and EvaluationEpidemiologyPublic HealthHealth SystemsHealth PolicyInternational Health Regulations (ihr)In-depth KnowledgeSkills To DevelopCoordinate Health PolicyStrategicResponseRecovery With A Range Of ActorsEnglishArabicUnited Nations FundsProgrammes

Position Profile

GradeP-5
SenioritySenior (P-5+)
Role TypeHealth
ContractStaff
EducationMaster's
Experience10+ years
LanguagesEnglish, Arabic
SalaryUSD 146,700.63–168,767.226/yr
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (3 total)
  • Research WHO's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Refresh your Arabic language skills
  • Read recent news and developments about WHO
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.