National Professional Officer - Communication

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 and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization collaborates with countries to strengthen their health systems and improve health outcomes, particularly in emergency situations.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer - Communication will serve as a focal point for communication activities at the national level, reporting directly to the Deputy Head of the Country Office and under the guidance of the Regional Communications Manager. The role involves close collaboration with technical officers and communications focal points at the Regional Office and Headquarters. The incumbent will engage with local experts to advocate for WHO's work and achievements, ensuring effective communication strategies are implemented. The position requires the identification of communication subjects related to emergency preparedness and response, designing communication materials, and disseminating information through various media channels. The officer will also support the development of advocacy tools and evaluate communication interventions to align with WHO guidelines and country priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Identify subjects of interest for communication activities related to emergency preparedness and response at the country level.
• Design and disseminate communication materials and tools to partners through traditional and social media channels.
• Develop content for emergency-related advocacy tools in line with WHO guidelines.
• Review and propose content, liaising with web teams for appropriate channels and presentation of materials.
• Technically support planning, implementation, and evaluation of Communication for Health (C4H) interventions.
• Assess barriers and needs through various methods to inform communication interventions.
• Collaborate with country and regional communication officers to disseminate information on emergency strategies.
• Plan interviews and filming opportunities to highlight WHO achievements.
• Develop communication products for advocacy with donors and stakeholders. 1
• Work with health cluster partners and other organizations to identify communication opportunities. 1
• Support strategic communication for health emergencies in Papua New Guinea. 1
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Essential: A first-level university degree in communication, journalism, political science, social sciences, international relations, or a related field from an accredited institution. Desirable: Courses in communication techniques such as graphic design, visual language, and social media usage. WHO considers only higher educational qualifications from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as communication, journalism, or social sciences. Additional courses in communication techniques are desirable. WHO only recognizes degrees from accredited institutions listed in the WHED.

Experience:
Essential: At least two years of relevant experience in communication and/or advocacy, with proven experience in writing advocacy documents and producing communication materials. Desirable: Experience in humanitarian emergency response and prior work with WHO/UN or international NGOs. Experience in organizing advocacy campaigns is also beneficial.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English and the local language. Candidates should be able to write well in both languages and produce engaging communication materials.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Papua New Guinea will be accepted. The remuneration includes an annual base salary starting at PGK 116,831, subject to mandatory deductions. The position offers 30 days of annual leave. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. All candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before assignment.