Deadline: 7 April 2016
World Health Organization (WHO) is currently seeking applications from the eligible applicants for the post of Communications Officer in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The duration of this post is 1 year.
The primary role of WHO is to direct and coordinate international health within the United Nations’ system.
Key Jobs Responsibilities
The Communications Officer will perform the following functions-
- Contribute to the development and strengthening of external communications and public relations function within the WCO Sierra Leone.
- Develop and validate the communications strategies, policies and guidelines to ensure standardization of communications products at national and sub-national level and compliance with policies and guidelines.
- Provide strategic advice on how WHO should communicate within Sierra Leone and with international stakeholders, based on knowledge of WHO’s goals, and cognizant of the actors and relationships within the political and media landscape.
- Attend meetings on behalf of WHO representing communications function.
- Liaise with Ministry of Health communications officers, those from other UN agencies, health partners, etc.
- Consult and liaise with communications colleagues in Regional office, other country offices, and headquarters as appropriate.
- Prepare talking points for WR, Regional office and HQ media team, or visiting WHO directors as needed.
- Write news releases on relevant health topics, manage clearance process.
- Provide input and/or editorial support to reports as necessary.
- Identify subjects of interest to develop and improve communications activities and oversee the dissemination of information to relevant stakeholders.
- Initiate and keep up to date the mapping of media and social media players in the country and at regional level.
- Write stories and posts for Country Office website, AFRO, HQ and social media platforms.
- Ensure correct use of WHO branding, such as logo on publications, signage, T-shirts, etc.
- Perform other related duties, as assigned.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must have-
- Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism or related area.
- A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
- A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communication to decision-makers in governments and private sector, and the broader public at national and international levels is required.
- Experience with the media and public relations sector or related field is required.
- Experience in the organization of environmental dialogues and public consultations and communication campaigns, is desirable.
- English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
- Fluency in oral and written English is required.
- Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications through online process.
For more information, please visit WHO.
