About the WR Talent Pipeline
WHO Representative (WR) Talent Pipeline Process (TPP)
The global WR Talent Pipeline is a structured, end-to-end process to identify and prepare high-potential talent for the role of WHO Representative (WR) / Head of Country Office. The process starts with an application to a vacancy notice published on the WHO career portal and may lead, for successful candidates, to admission to the WR Roster. It replaces the previous direct-entry approach to the WR Assessment Centre (AC).
Objectives of the WR TP
- Identify high-potential talent for future WR roles.
- Develop talent through self-directed, competency-based learning and development.
- Strengthen the WR Roster. Ensure WHO has a diverse, high-quality set of candidates to lead WCOs – supporting transformation at country level:
- improve the WR AC pass rate
- improve diversity (gender and geographic representation)
- Improve the availability of candidates proficient in required languages; especially Arabic, French, Russian and Spanish.
- Drive a more efficient process – it removes the need for the “category 2” WR AC outcome categorization, maximizing the yield of the WR AC.
What does the WR TPP aim to achieve?
The overall purpose of the TPP is to enable WHO to proactively identify, attract, engage top talents from both internally in the Organization and from outside to meet needs for WR positions, both now and in the future.
Benefits to the Organization include:
- identify high-calibre talent earlier – focus resources on those with the highest potential for WR roles;
- build a ready pool – increase likelihood of success in the externally moderated WR AC;
- plan and deploy proactively – better match talent supply with anticipated country needs; and
- develop future leaders – structured, competency-based learning and development interventions.
Benefits for the candidates include:
- objective and transparent process for entry into the WR Talent Pipeline (TP). An external entity will help run the shortlisting. While in the pipeline, the screening will be conducted by an external entity to determine readiness to participate in the WR;
- clear information on requirements, learning and development opportunities, interactions with peers and senior WRs; and
- time to develop competency gaps before participating in the WR AC.
What is the focus of the first launch of the WR TPP?
The first launch aims to introduce fresh talents into the WR Roster, especially with the required language proficiency (i.e., Arabic, French, Russian, Spanish), gender and geographic diversity.
How is the WR TPP different from the previous WR AC?
In the past, candidates applied to a published vacancy notice. Applicants were shortlisted based on their CV and subsequently a pre-recorded video interview. About 50 candidates were invited to the WR AC.
Now, the call for expression of interest is to enter the WR TP. More applicants may be considered entry to the pipeline based on qualifications clearly described below. While in the pipeline, candidates will be provided with support for their self-directed learning and development including clear information on requirements, on sources and opportunities for training, structured interactions with senior WRs, etc. Eligibility to participate in the WR AC will be through the pipeline. Those candidates in the pipeline will go through screening and only those screened in will be able to go to the WR AC.
Will the WR TP replace the WR Roster?
No. The WR Roster remains the official pool from which WR vacancies are filled. The WR TP is the upstream process that feeds the Roster.
Eligibility and who can apply
Who is eligible to apply?
Anyone (internals and externals) can apply. In order to have a chance to be shortlisted, candidates must meet the minimum requirements mentioned in the vacancy notice.
What are the minimum requirements?
- Education: advanced university degree in public health, health sciences, health systems, or a medical-related field.
- Experience:
- minimum of 10 years of progressive relevant international experience in health-related fields; and
- at least two years of relevant country-level experience, including engagement with governments and external partners.
- Languages: proficiency in English is essential, and working knowledge of a second UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) is desirable.
- Service: willingness to take up WR positions in any setting and commitment to geographic mobility.
For the full criteria and requirements, visit the WHO Representative Talent Pipeline application page in the Stellis Portal.
I am a current WR, or on the WR Roster. Can I apply?
Current WRs and candidates on the WR Roster are already part of the WR Roster and follow the WR Succession Planning process to take up assignments in countries; they do not need to re-enter the pipeline. However, current WRs are welcome to support the pipeline as mentors, panelists on information sessions related to the TP.
I am a potential candidate. Where do I apply and what is the process?
Internal and external candidates apply through the Stellis portal during an open application window. The selection process, criteria and timelines are the same for internal and external candidates; external candidates are expected to drive their own development during the self-guided phase.
Is there an age limit?
Successful candidates must be available to serve a full WR assignment cycle of 3 or 5 years before mandatory retirement at 65 years. Therefore, candidates within 36 months of retirement for example, would, in practice, not be a good fit for the pipeline.
The application process (Expression of Interest)
How do I submit an application?
Applications are submitted via Stellis when the call is open. You will need an updated Stellis profile, a motivation statement and any references/endorsements specified in the call. Practical information on the application process and Stellis profile can be found on Stellis user guide: how to apply to WHO job opportunities.
Is the application to the WR TPP a WR job application?
No. The application is a declaration of interest in being considered for the WHO Representative Talent Pipeline (WR TP). Acceptance into the pipeline does not constitute selection for a specific WHO Representative (WR) position. It does not guarantee participation in the WHO Representative Assessment Centre (WR AC). Candidates in the Talent Pipeline when they are deemed ready would evaluated in the WR AC, and if successful would be added to the WR Roster. Selection to WR positions remains through the ad hoc vacancy announcements open to those who are in the WR Roster.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, candidates not accepted in one cohort may reapply in a subsequent application window.
What happens after I submit my application?
The external entity will conduct screening against the entry criteria. Successful candidates who are shortlisted for the pipeline would be informed about their inclusion in the pipeline. Other candidates would also receive information on the status of their application accordingly.
Self-development and screening for WR AC readiness
What does the "self-guided development" phase involve?
Once accepted into the WHO Representative Talent Pipeline (WR TP), you will have access to a curated set of resources (the WR Competency framework, learning content via the WHO Academy and recommended external programmes). You build your Individual Development Plan, decide your own pace, and declare yourself "ready" for intensive screening when you feel prepared.
Will WHO pay for my development?
The pipeline is primarily self-directed: WHO provides access to a curated set of resources and the screening/AC processes. External courses and travel for self-directed learning are normally at the candidate's own initiative and expense, unless covered by a specific staff development entitlement for WHO staff. There will be opportunities to participate in group discussions with senior WRs focused imparting experiences, clarifying competency needs, and advice on questions the candidates might have. There is no guarantee of placement in positions that will prepare the candidates for leadership positions in country offices.
What does the intensive screening for WR AC readiness involve?
Screening is delivered by the external entity and may include critical thinking and situational judgement tests, plus assessments of motivation, engagement and learning agility.
More information will be provided on this to those who are selected to be in the WR TP.
What is the WR AC?
The WHO Representative Assessment Centre (WR AC) is a rigorous, multi-day, in-person assessment held at the WHO Academy in Lyon. Successful candidates join the WR Roster.
More information will be provided on this to those who are selected to be in the WR TP.
Where do you get more information regarding the WR TP?
The initiative is a collaboration between the Department of Human Resources, the Office of Country Strategy and Support and the HR Managers and the Country Support Unit Networks. Please send your questions to wrtalentpipeline@who.int.