WHO Communications and Media Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established in 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 aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health emergencies, setting health standards, and providing technical assistance to countries.

Job Overview:
The WHO Communications and Media Relations Officer will play a pivotal role in the Communications Unit of WHO/AFRO, which is dedicated to advocating for resources and actions on key health issues in the African Region. The incumbent will support the Regional Director in managing the Office of the Regional Director effectively and efficiently. This position involves drafting and editing strategic communications documents, developing multimedia content for the WHO website, and facilitating media interactions. The officer will also be responsible for building partnerships with media houses, conducting media monitoring, and generating outreach materials to enhance the visibility of WHO's impact. The overarching goal is to strengthen the capacity of countries in the WHO African Region to implement evidence-based health policies and strategies, ensuring universal access to high-quality health services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: drafting and editing WHO AFRO communications documents such as press releases, reports, and advocacy materials; developing multimedia content for the WHO website; facilitating interviews between media and WHO experts; reviewing media products for advocacy; building and maintaining partnerships with major media houses; organizing press conferences and roundtable discussions; conducting media monitoring and evaluation; and collaborating with country focal points to generate outreach materials. The officer will also support the Regional Director's communications during missions to Anglophone countries and perform other related responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in Arts and Humanities, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Political or International Relations, or related fields. Essential qualifications include at least five years of relevant experience at national or international levels, particularly in developing communications products and writing speeches. Candidates should have thorough knowledge of various communications channels and an understanding of public health and international development issues. Excellent analytical, writing, and editing skills are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree in relevant fields such as Arts and Humanities, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Political or International Relations. A higher degree or specialized training in communications or public health may be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in communications at national or international levels. Experience in developing communications products, particularly in writing speeches and advocacy materials, is essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of working with media and understanding the impact of communications on organizational reputation.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory, while intermediate knowledge of French is also required. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will be beneficial, as the role involves engaging with diverse stakeholders across the African Region.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335, along with a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Brazzaville. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of integrity and ethical standards in its workforce.