Risk Communication Specialist

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's primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health emergencies, providing technical assistance, and setting health standards globally.

Job Overview:
The Risk Communication Specialist will be a key player in the WHO Djibouti Vaccine Programme, focusing on enhancing the effectiveness of the routine vaccination program and the introduction of new vaccines. The role involves strategic planning and technical support to ensure effective communication regarding vaccine preventable diseases. The incumbent will be responsible for implementing risk communication plans, developing educational materials, and addressing misinformation related to vaccines. This position requires collaboration with regional counterparts and national stakeholders to strengthen community engagement and enhance public understanding of vaccination efforts. The specialist will also evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and propose innovative solutions to improve public perception and acceptance of vaccines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Risk Communication Specialist include:

• Implementing operations of the risk communication plan for vaccine preventable diseases.
• Identifying areas of concern and developing relevant communication materials for stakeholders and the public.
• Collaborating with regional and headquarters teams to ensure smooth implementation of risk communication activities.
• Providing guidance on technical materials produced by the country office.
• Evaluating misinformation and proposing solutions to counter vaccine hesitancy.
• Maintaining quality control for risk communication products, including brochures, leaflets, and media scripts.
• Writing reports on the performance of risk communication activities and identifying gaps.
• Strengthening national capacity for risk communication initiatives and training counterparts.
• Leading the development of training materials for community protection and vaccine hesitancy. 1
• Supporting national authorities in developing and reviewing risk communication strategies. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first-level university degree in social sciences, social work, behavioral sciences, development sciences, communications, or public health. An advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in these fields is desirable. Training in public health, health education, health communication, or health promotion is also beneficial. Candidates should possess excellent interpersonal skills, effective negotiation abilities, and the capacity to work under pressure while producing results. Knowledge of WHO's mandate in emergency management is essential, along with the ability to think creatively and propose innovative solutions.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, behavioral sciences, communications, or public health. An advanced degree is preferred, and training in public health or health communication is desirable. Educational qualifications must be obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of related experience in risk communication, with international exposure. Proven experience in developing and implementing risk communication strategies is essential. Desirable experience includes emergency management, disease outbreaks, and working with WHO or other international organizations. Management or project management experience is also beneficial.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and French is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is fluency in these two languages to effectively communicate with stakeholders and the public.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. The remuneration for this position starts at USD 70,212 annually, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment, annual leave, allowances for dependents, and an education grant for children. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of tobacco. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.