OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME
The Department of Communications (DCO) objectives are to: lead the development of the corporate communications plan, drive prioritization and โright size' effort with expected impact for WHO; position WHO as the authoritative and trusted voice on health at the global level through working with technical divisions and departments to develop strategies to amplify WHO's normative work; lead WHO media outreach, incl. crisis/ emergency communication with input from technical departments as well as across all 3 levels; drive all communication to the general public as well as responding to media enquiries; lead on global advocacy (e.g. health campaigns, public health information, donor visibility for resource mobilization); provide digital global production capacity &expertise to support all levels of the organization.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
Under the guidance of the Head of Health Information and Advocacy, and in partnership with the rest of the Department of Communications team, HQ Departments/Divisions, Regional and Country Offices, and external partners, the Communications Officer:
- Develops storylines and key messages for WHO's work for key stakeholders, including WHO Offices, Ministries of Health, health partners, donors, and the general public.
- Develops communications products (e.g. website and social media content, including press releases, feature articles, and print and audiovisual products) to promote WHO's work, convey important public health messaging, support resource mobilization efforts, as well as meet the information needs of donors and other stakeholders.
- Drafts and edits written materials, including feature stories, news products, fact sheets, and Q&As, ensuring accuracy, consistency, coherence, and adherence to WHO House Style. Supports WHO country and regional offices, and relevant departments, in proactively communicating through developing strategies and content.
- Promotes WHO's work through WHO corporate platforms, media queries/pitches, and spokesperson interviews/briefings.
- Partners with other Units and Teams across the Department of Communications to ensure alignment, timeliness, quality, and innovative approaches to communications products.
- Participates in or organizes public events.
- Performs all other related duties as required.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Essential: A first-level university degree in communications, journalism, or related field.
Desirable: Knowledge of public health and international relations.Experience
Essential:
- Minimum 5 years' experience in communications or journalism with a major international organization.
Desirable:
Experience producing content for radio/TV broadcasting and the web, including photos, videos, and social media. Experience working with WHO or other UN Agencies.Skills
Sound news and features writing skills. Proven ability to multitask, prioritize, research, and write to short deadlines. Sound advocacy skills complemented by the ability to plan and evaluate situations and propose innovative communications options.WHO Competencies
TeamworkRespecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
Communication
Producing results
Moving forward in a changing environment
Use of Language Skills
Essential: Expert knowledge of English.
Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French.
REMUNERATION
WHO salaries for staff in the Professional category are calculated in US dollars. The remuneration for the above position comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 64,121 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable), a variable post adjustment, which reflects the cost of living in a particular duty station, and currently amounts to USD 4948 per month for the duty station indicated above. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children.