Communications Officer

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Position Title: Communications Officer
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Country: Brazil
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is a specialized international health agency established in 1902, dedicated to improving health and living standards in the Americas. It serves as the Regional Office for the World Health Organization (WHO) and is committed to promoting health, preventing disease, and improving the quality of life for the people of the Americas. PAHO operates in 35 countries and territories across North, Central, and South America, employing over 1,000 staff members. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and environmental health, and works collaboratively with countries to strengthen their health systems and improve health outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer will play a crucial role in the Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease/Veterinary Public Health Center (PANAFTOSA/VPH) by coordinating communication strategies and initiatives that align with PAHO/WHO's objectives. The incumbent will be responsible for developing, managing, and disseminating communication materials that effectively convey PANAFTOSA/VPH's technical cooperation efforts in combating zoonotic and food-borne diseases. This position requires a proactive approach to ensure that communication efforts are relevant, timely, and culturally sensitive, thereby enhancing the visibility and impact of PANAFTOSA/VPH's work. The officer will also engage with various stakeholders, including media outlets, to promote awareness and understanding of PANAFTOSA/VPH's initiatives and achievements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Coordinating with PANAFTOSA/VPH technical areas to plan, develop, review, approve, manage, and disseminate communication content.
• Preparing and monitoring the PANAFTOSA/VPH communication plan in alignment with the PAHO/WHO Strategic Communication Plan.
• Overseeing the design and production of technical documents, newsletters, and information materials for events and meetings.
• Collaborating with the PAHO Communications Network and serving as a focal point for effective communication and coordination.
• Supporting the organization of technical meetings and events related to PANAFTOSA/VPH's work.
• Reviewing and approving technical guides and documents through the internal process.
• Managing the communication and library team responsible for PANAFTOSA/VPH communication and publications.
• Establishing communication with relevant media outlets to disseminate information.
• Maintaining a comprehensive image library for regional issues and activities. 1
• Ensuring timely updates and maintenance of the PANAFTOSA/VPH website. 1
• Monitoring the impacts of PANAFTOSA/VPH communication efforts. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, media studies, digital media communication, advertising, or a related field from a recognized university. Additionally, training in public health is desirable. Candidates must provide proof of their degree(s) from accredited institutions as part of the application process. PAHO only considers degrees from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, media studies, digital media communication, advertising, or a related discipline is essential. Training in public health is considered an asset. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their degrees or certificates during the interview process, and PAHO will validate these degrees through recognized databases.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of national professional experience in communications or journalism, with practical experience in corporate and/or strategic communications. Experience in health promotion and working with international organizations or agencies is desirable and will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Very good knowledge of Spanish is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of Portuguese and English. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and candidates must hold a permanent local working visa (citizenship or permanent resident card) of Brazil. The annual salary for this position is R $224,061.00 (net of taxes). The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as a form of screening. PAHO/WHO promotes a work environment free from harassment and discrimination and is committed to workforce diversity. The organization offers an attractive compensation package, including 30 days of annual leave, dependency benefits, a pension plan, and a health insurance scheme.