WHO 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 operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's primary focus is on addressing global health challenges, providing technical assistance to countries, and coordinating international responses to health emergencies.

Job Overview:
The WHO Communication Officer position is crucial for advancing the organization's advocacy and awareness efforts at the country level. The officer will work closely with regional and headquarters communication focal points to develop and implement communication strategies that highlight WHO's programs and achievements in Libya. This role involves identifying key success stories, creating communication products, and ensuring effective outreach through various media channels, including social media. The officer will also organize media events and campaigns, manage the WHO country office website, and collaborate with national stakeholders to disseminate information on health strategies. The position requires a proactive approach to communication, especially during public health crises, where the officer will deliver specialized risk communication and advocacy plans.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication Officer will be responsible for developing and guiding the implementation of communication strategies and plans. Key duties include identifying marketable subjects and success stories, preparing communication and advocacy products, organizing media events and campaigns, and managing outreach efforts to ensure optimal coverage of WHO's work. The officer will also conduct media monitoring, track audience perceptions, and develop strategies to address information deficits. Collaboration with national stakeholders and UN Information Officers is essential for producing and disseminating information on health strategies. Additionally, the officer will advise country office leadership on communication matters and conduct training for WHO staff on communication-related topics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in communication, journalism, political science, social sciences, international relations, or a related field from an accredited institution. A formal qualification in public health and training in communication techniques or graphic design is desirable. Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in communication and advocacy, particularly in humanitarian emergency or health outbreak response. Proven experience in writing advocacy documents and producing communication materials is essential. Prior experience with WHO/UN or international NGOs, as well as experience in organizing advocacy campaigns, is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree in communication, journalism, political science, social sciences, international relations, or a related field. Additional desirable qualifications include formal training in public health, communication techniques, graphic design, and risk communication.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience at both national and international levels in communication and advocacy. This experience should include supporting humanitarian emergency or health outbreak response activities. Candidates should have a proven track record in writing advocacy documents and producing communication materials and products.

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

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 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 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 adheres to high ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.