Communications Officer, External 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. The organization operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to improving global health standards and addressing health emergencies. WHO's work encompasses a wide range of health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, among others. The organization is committed to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that everyone can access essential health services without facing financial hardship.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer, External Communications, plays a crucial role in enhancing WHO's visibility and impact at the country level. This position is integral to the Division of Programme Management, which ensures the technical excellence of WHO/Europe's work. The officer is responsible for producing high-quality communications products that effectively illustrate WHO's work and its impact in various countries. This includes developing and adapting global and regional communications materials for local use, as well as building the communications capacity of Country Offices. The role requires a proactive approach to managing communications strategies, engaging with external audiences, and supporting the dissemination of information that highlights WHO's contributions to public health. The officer will work closely with the Communications Manager and collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure coherent messaging and effective outreach.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will undertake a variety of key responsibilities, including:

• Producing timely and high-quality communications products that accurately reflect WHO's work and impact in countries.
• Researching and developing news stories, features, and event notices related to WHO's activities at the country level for external audiences.
• Creating and posting country-focused social media content to enhance WHO's online presence.
• Supporting the organization and management of National Focal Point for Communications network meetings, fostering outreach and collaboration with Member States in the Region.
• Assisting Country Offices with requests for communications support and guidance, ensuring they have the necessary resources to strengthen their social media presence.
• Collaborating with Country Offices to develop and implement effective communications strategies and action plans.
• Building and maintaining a portfolio of strategic communications templates and tools for Country Offices, including campaign materials and brochures.
• Coordinating the Country Office Communications Network and facilitating regular meetings and capacity-building sessions for staff with communications responsibilities.
• Developing training materials and providing training for Country Office staff to enhance their communications skills. 1
• Performing other relevant duties as necessary and appropriate to support WHO's mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree at the Bachelor's level in communications, journalism, or a related social science field. A Master's degree in any of these areas, as well as qualifications in public health or international relations, is desirable. Essential qualifications also include at least two years of professional experience in communications and/or international relations, with a minimum of one year in an international environment. Candidates should demonstrate experience in developing and implementing communications strategies for public sector organizations, coordinating the development and delivery of multilingual communications products, organizing virtual meetings, and analyzing communications activities and campaigns. Desirable qualifications include relevant experience within WHO, the United Nations, or other international organizations focused on development or public health.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or a related social science. A Master's degree in any of these fields is considered desirable, along with qualifications in public health or international relations. Candidates must have their degrees from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of professional experience in communications and/or international relations, with at least one year spent in an international environment. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in developing and implementing communications strategies, coordinating multilingual communications products, and organizing professional networks. Relevant experience within WHO or other international organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of additional languages such as French, Russian, or German is considered desirable, as it can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, starting with an annual base salary of USD 56,046, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Additionally, a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Istanbul is provided, currently amounting to USD 2046 per month. Employees are entitled to 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. Candidates who have been separated due to the 2025 Prioritization and Realignment Process will receive special consideration. Only 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 inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.