Communication Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to address global health challenges and improve health outcomes for all people, particularly in regions affected by conflict and crises, such as Gaza.

Job Overview:
The Communication Officer position at the WHO Suboffice for Gaza is crucial for promoting health initiatives and enhancing the visibility of WHO's work in the region. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that raise awareness of WHO's programs and achievements. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including national communication counterparts and media representatives, to ensure effective outreach and dissemination of information. The officer will also engage in media monitoring and propose strategies to mitigate communication risks, particularly during public health emergencies. The position demands a proactive approach to building networks and fostering partnerships that support WHO's mission in Gaza, especially in the context of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication Officer will perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with the communication officer to implement communication strategies and plans that highlight WHO's programs and achievements at the country level.
• Identifying marketable subjects and success stories to develop communication and advocacy products for partnerships.
• Ensuring optimal outreach and dissemination of information through suitable media channels, including social media platforms.
• Organizing media events, campaigns, and technical briefings, coordinating between media representatives and WHO experts.
• Building and maintaining productive networks with the press and national communication counterparts to secure positive coverage of WHO's work.
• Supporting the development and updating of content for the WHO country office website and managing effective social media engagements.
• Conducting regular media monitoring and tracking audience perceptions of WHO, proposing risk-mitigation communications as necessary.
• Collaborating with national stakeholders and UN information officers to promote national health strategies and advocate for organizational priorities.
• Supporting specialized emergency communications and advocacy plans during public health crises and outbreaks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree (bachelor's) in a relevant field such as communication, journalism, marketing, health communications, political science, or international relations. A formal qualification in public health is desirable, along with courses in communication techniques or graphic design. Training in risk communication is also beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of public health and international development issues, as well as the ability to develop and implement effective communication/media products. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential, along with the ability to represent and promote the WHO brand in various networks. Knowledge of WHO and UN agency programs and practices is a plus, as is an understanding of WHO's mandate in emergency management contexts.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Additional qualifications in public health, communication techniques, or graphic design are desirable. Training in risk communication is also beneficial for candidates seeking to excel in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in delivering communication services and products at the national level. Experience in public health communication, media relations, and advocacy is highly valued. Desirable skills include the ability to develop messaging for international organizations and to communicate success stories effectively. Familiarity with WHO's programs and practices, as well as understanding the context of emergency incident management, will enhance a candidate's suitability for this position.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance outreach efforts in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 55,163 annually, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization also requires candidates to confirm vaccination status as part of the recruitment process.