Partnerships and External Relations 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. With over 7,000 employees across more than 150 countries, WHO operates in various regions to address global health challenges and improve health outcomes. The organization focuses on a wide range of health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, working collaboratively with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships and External Relations Officer plays a crucial role in the WHO Country Office by managing the development and implementation of partnerships and communication strategies. This position is essential for achieving the Office's external relations goals, which are aligned with the national health and development agenda. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including national governments, donors, and civil society organizations, to enhance visibility and advocacy for WHO's programs. Additionally, 25% of the officer's time will be dedicated to supporting the Regional Office's communications and external relations priorities, ensuring coherence and alignment across the organization. The role requires a strategic approach to stakeholder engagement and the ability to communicate effectively about WHO's successes and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including coordinating with Partnerships and External Relations and Communications officers at both the Regional and Headquarters levels. Key responsibilities include developing and managing communication strategies to enhance WHO's visibility, applying expertise in public health partnerships, designing promotional activities, managing research on partner profiles, developing grant proposals, and monitoring donor contributions. The officer will also create and disseminate targeted materials to strategic partners, manage social media engagements, and conduct communication training for WHO staff. Furthermore, the role involves drafting speeches and articles for the Regional Director, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations, and providing technical and administrative support to strengthen the country office's capacity.

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. Additional desirable qualifications include formal training in public health, external relations, donor intelligence, proposal writing, and project management. Essential skills include proven experience in developing and delivering communication services, social media management, and graphic design, particularly within a multilateral or public international organization. International exposure and experience in external relations and partnerships building are also critical for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Candidates with additional qualifications in public health or related areas will be preferred. Courses in graphic design or social media usage are also beneficial, as they contribute to the officer's ability to create effective communication materials and strategies.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant work experience is essential for this position. Candidates should have experience in developing and delivering communication services and products, particularly in a multicultural environment. Relevant experience at both national and international levels in external relations and partnerships building is crucial. Desirable experience includes working with WHO or other UN agencies, particularly in an international context, which would provide valuable insights into the organization's operations and goals.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the officer's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and partners effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 59,151, subject to deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. A variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Dhaka is also included, currently amounting to USD 1666 per month. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level, and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. A written test may be used as part of the screening process, and candidates will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications if selected for an interview. WHO is committed to workforce diversity and encourages applications from women and nationals of underrepresented Member States.