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. 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 works closely with governments and other partners to achieve this objective.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Communication) position at the WHO Nepal Country Office is designed to support the implementation of communication strategies that raise awareness of WHO's programs and achievements at the country level. The incumbent will work closely with regional and headquarters communication focal points to ensure that the communication strategies align with WHO's corporate goals. This role involves identifying marketable subjects and success stories, developing communication and advocacy products, and optimizing outreach to target audiences through various media channels, including social media. The officer will also be responsible for organizing media events and campaigns, building networks with the press, and collaborating with national stakeholders to promote health strategies. The position requires a deep understanding of public health issues and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, ensuring that WHO's work is positively represented in the media and public discourse.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of communication strategies and plans; identifying and developing communication products; organizing media events and technical briefings; building and maintaining relationships with media and communication counterparts; applying knowledge of cultural norms to enhance communication efforts; conducting media monitoring and tracking audience perceptions; collaborating with national stakeholders and UN Information Officers; advocating for organizational priorities; supporting emergency communications during public health crises; and providing training for WHO staff on communication and media engagement.

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. A formal qualification in public health and training in communication techniques, graphic design, or risk communication is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of public health and international development issues, as well as proven skills in developing and implementing communication products and approaches. The ability to represent and promote the WHO brand in various communities and networks is essential, along with the capacity to elicit and communicate success stories effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Additional qualifications in public health, communication techniques, graphic design, or risk communication are considered advantageous. Candidates should have a solid foundation in communication strategies and practices, particularly in the context of health communications.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant work experience at the national level is essential for this position. This experience should involve delivering communication services and products, particularly in the context of public health. Desirable experience includes familiarity with WHO and United Nations agencies' programs and practices, as well as an understanding of WHO's mandate and goals in emergency incident management.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Nepali 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 diverse stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Nepal will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at NPR 3,630,199 annually, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates will undergo background verification. Additionally, WHO requires proof of vaccination as a condition of employment, except in cases where medical conditions prevent vaccination.