Communication 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. The organization has a global presence with 194 member states and offices in over 150 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes worldwide. WHO works collaboratively with countries and partners to address health challenges, provide technical assistance, and implement health programs that align with national priorities.

Job Overview:
The Communication Officer plays a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and effectiveness of WHO's communication strategies in Iraq. This position involves working closely with the WHO representative and receiving technical guidance from various WHO officers. The officer is responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that align with WHO's country priorities and program objectives. The role requires the creation of high-quality communication materials, timely dissemination of public health information, and the establishment of a robust media network. The Communication Officer will also engage with national counterparts, partner organizations, and stakeholders to facilitate effective communication and advocacy efforts. This position is vital for ensuring that WHO's health initiatives are well-communicated and understood by the public and relevant authorities, thereby contributing to improved health outcomes in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate communication, advocacy, and visibility activities in support of WHO programs, ensuring alignment with country priorities and objectives.
• Develop and implement communication strategies, action plans, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Produce high-quality communication materials such as press releases, success stories, multimedia products, and advocacy briefs.
• Ensure timely dissemination of public health information to target audiences, including newsletters and web stories.
• Maintain and update a multimedia database for the WHO Country Office (WCO).
• Collaborate with communication suppliers and establish a roster of professionals for communication needs.
• Monitor and update WCO's websites and social media accounts to ensure consistency and visibility.
• Implement communication and advocacy activities in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to the production of advocacy materials and organization of health awareness campaigns. 1
• Monitor communication performance and prepare reports for decision-making. 1
• Document and disseminate program achievements and best practices through appropriate channels. 1
• Maintain professional contacts with media and communication counterparts to promote public awareness of health issues.

Required Qualifications:

• First-level university degree in journalism, communications, arts, international relations, or social sciences.
• At least 1 year of experience in communications techniques and media relations at the national level.
• Professional experience or knowledge in information and communications projects related to humanitarian crises.
• Experience in planning and implementing media and communications projects, including audio and visual materials.
• Knowledge in producing policy-relevant information products.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in fields such as journalism, communications, arts, international relations, or social sciences. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of communication in a health context and for developing effective communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of professional experience in communications techniques and media relations, particularly within media organizations such as television, radio, or print at the national level. Candidates should have experience in planning and implementing communication projects, especially in contexts related to humanitarian crises and health emergencies. This experience is crucial for effectively managing communication strategies that address public health challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English and the local language is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in both languages is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, media representatives, and the general public. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve working under pressure, especially during health emergencies. The Communication Officer will be expected to engage in continuous learning and professional development opportunities. The role may also involve collaboration with international partners and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and integration in achieving communication objectives.