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, which includes addressing health emergencies, promoting universal health coverage, and advancing health equity.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Communication) position at the WHO Nepal Country Office is pivotal in implementing communication strategies that enhance awareness of WHO's programs and achievements at the national level. The incumbent will work closely with the Nepalese government and various stakeholders to support the formulation and execution of health policies and strategies. This role involves liaising with the media and the public to communicate health-related issues and WHO activities effectively. The officer will be responsible for developing communication products, organizing media events, and ensuring optimal outreach through various media channels, including social media. The position requires a deep understanding of public health communication and the ability to advocate for WHO's priorities during public health crises and emergencies.

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 marketable subjects and developing advocacy products; organizing media events and campaigns; building and maintaining networks with media and national communication counterparts; applying knowledge of cultural norms to enhance communication efforts; conducting media monitoring and proposing risk-mitigation strategies; collaborating with national stakeholders and UN Information Officers; advocating for organizational priorities; and supporting emergency communication efforts during public health crises. Additionally, the officer will coordinate training for WHO country office staff on communication and media sensitization.

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. Essential skills include a solid understanding of public health issues, proven abilities in developing communication products, and the capacity to represent WHO effectively in various communities and networks. Knowledge of WHO and UN agency programs is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree in communication, journalism, marketing, health communications, political science, or international relations. Additional qualifications in public health, communication techniques, graphic design, or risk communication are considered advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in delivering communication services and products at the national level. Experience in public health communication and familiarity with WHO's mandate and goals in emergency management contexts are desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Nepali is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a National Professional Officer position, meaning only applications from nationals of Nepal will be accepted. The position offers an annual base salary starting at NPR 3,630,199, with mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates will undergo background verification. The successful candidate must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment.