Director of Communications

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. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working towards global health priorities and ensuring that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health emergencies, setting health standards, and providing technical assistance to countries.

Job Overview:
The Director of Communications will lead the development and implementation of WHO's global communications strategy, ensuring that the organization effectively communicates its mission and priorities to a diverse range of stakeholders. This role involves advising senior leadership on strategic communication matters, managing the organization's public relations efforts, and overseeing the development of communication policies that align with WHO's goals. The Director will be responsible for enhancing WHO's visibility and credibility on the global stage, particularly during public health emergencies, and will work to counter misinformation that may undermine the organization's efforts. The position requires a strategic thinker who can navigate complex political landscapes and engage effectively with various audiences, including Member States, media, and the public.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of a strategic global communications vision and implement WHO's global communications strategy.
• Advise the Director-General and senior leadership on politically sensitive communication matters.
• Design and develop communication policies and strategies that ensure consistent messaging across all levels of the organization.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of communication activities and establish mechanisms for performance assessment.
• Champion WHO's global visibility and credibility, providing guidance to senior leadership.
• Direct the implementation of communication policies and strategies across the organization.
• Manage the global media and crisis communication strategy, identifying opportunities to enhance WHO's reputation.
• Ensure effective engagement with global audiences during public health emergencies.
• Develop strategies to address misinformation and disinformation. 1
• Manage the staff and resources of the Department of Communications, establishing benchmarks for excellence. 1
• Build partnerships with global media, Member States, UN agencies, and stakeholders to amplify WHO's voice. 1
• Support resource mobilization efforts through targeted communication campaigns. 1
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in communication, journalism, public relations, international relations, public health, business management, social sciences, or a related field.
• A PhD in one of the above fields is desirable.
• Specialization in marketing, business management, or international/public relations is a plus.
• Proven experience in managing communications and public relations programs at a senior level.
• Experience in developing and establishing communication policies and strategies is essential.
• Demonstrated experience at the international level is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as communication, journalism, public relations, international relations, public health, business management, or social sciences. A PhD in one of these fields is desirable, particularly with a focus on marketing, business management, or international/public relations. Specialization in journalism or related areas is also beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in managing communications and public relations programs. This includes providing senior-level communications advice, managing human and financial resources, and developing communication policies and strategies. Experience at the international level is essential, and experience working with or within multilateral organizations or UN agencies is desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of WHO's global communications efforts.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 128,422, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment based on the cost of living in Geneva, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The role is subject to WHO's Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates should be aware that mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking an assignment.