DUTY STATION
Geneva, Switzerland
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTY
To be determined NATURE OF APPOINTMENT
Fixed-term - 1 year
Organizational Unit
Global Communication and Engagement Office (GCEO) 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. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
SHAPE THE GLOBAL CLIMATE NARRATIVE
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to serve as Chief of Global Communication and Engagement. This pivotal role drives the Organizationโs global communication, media, and advocacy strategiesโensuring WMOโs scientific leadership and climate priorities are clearly understood, widely trusted, and globally impactful.
As the principal architect of WMOโs public voice, you will lead efforts to position the Organization at the forefront of climate action, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development. You will work closely with executive leadership, Member States, and global partners to ensure that WMOโs messages resonate across diverse audiences and platforms.
KEY AREAS OF IMPACT
Under the direct supervision of the Assistant Secretary-General, the Chief, Global Communication and Engagement will be responsible for the following duties:
STRATEGIC POSITIONING
Shape WMOโs global narrative and lead advocacy campaigns that highlight the socio-economic value of its work, including initiatives like Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL).
EXECUTIVE ENGAGEMENT
Advise leadership on communication strategy and ensure consistent messaging across governance bodies and UN platforms.
LEADERSHIP & CULTURE
Lead a high-performing team, foster collaboration, and build internal capacity in strategic communication.
DIGITAL INNOVATION
Modernize WMOโs digital presence and use data-driven strategies to enhance multilingual engagement.
CONTENT & MEDIA RELATIONS
Oversee content creation, act as WMOโs media liaison, and ensure effective public storytelling.
COLLABORATION & COORDINATION
Strengthen partnerships with media, UN entities, and regional organizations to expand WMOโs global visibility.
BUDGET & ADMINISTRATION
Manage communication budgets, monitor performance, and oversee administrative functions of the GCEO.
RISK & CRISIS COMMUNICATION
Mitigate reputational risks and lead crisis communication with transparent and timely responses.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Master's degree or equivalent in communications, international relations, public policy, journalism, or a related field.
Experience
- A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communication, public affairs, or multilateral engagement, preferably within the UN system or international development.
- Proven experience in leading communication transformation, policy advocacy, and high-level stakeholder engagement.
Other requirements
YOUR PROFILE
We are looking for a dynamic communicator with a proven track record in global public affairs, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagementโideally in multilateral, scientific, or climate-related contexts. You bring exceptional leadership, political acumen, and a passion for translating complex science into compelling narratives that drive action. If you have the following skills, we would like to hear from you:
- Leadership and management: translate vision into results; establish and maintain relationships with diverse people; anticipate and resolve conflicts.
- Demonstrated political acumen combined with proven abilities in narrative framing to influence perceptions and drive strategic outcomes.
- Expertise in digital strategy, media relations, and strategic content development.
- Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills in multicultural environments.
- Ability to translate complex scientific and technical content into compelling, public-facing messages.
- Exceptional judgment and decisive problem-solving skills are essential, enabling sound and informed choices with organizational impact.
COMPETENCIES
The Chief of Global Communication and Engagement must possess 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: 5 September 2025