Job Opportunity: Communication Officer at World Health Organization (WHO) in Abuja

The World Health Organization (WHO), as the directing and coordinating authority for health within the United Nations system, is looking to fill the position of Communication Officer in Abuja. This is a full-time role with a fixed-term appointment for one year, falling under the NO-C grade.

Objectives of the Programme:

The Communications Unit holds a pivotal role in supporting the WR (World Representative) in effectively carrying out their mandate and coordinating WHO’s work in Nigeria, the African Region, and globally. The unit is responsible for reputation management, health information dissemination, and corporate branding. Additionally, the Communications Unit is in charge of developing and implementing the Nigeria country office communications strategy, producing communication materials for media and public information documents, and offering guidance and support to the Nigeria country Office Clusters and state Offices.

Job Description:

Under the supervision of the Communications Officer and guidance of the WR, the Communication Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

1. Conducting media relations in consultation with supervisor, technical units, and the country office.
2. Monitoring WHO’s exposure in traditional and social media and producing a daily media monitoring report.
3. Maintaining and updating the regional media list and profiles of key reporters.
4. Assisting with planning and organizing news conferences, campaigns, and advocacy events.
5. Drafting, coordinating clearance, and supporting dissemination of communication and advocacy materials.
6. Acting as a backup to update the WHO Nigeria website and social media accounts.
7. Serving as a focal point for internal communications in WHO Nigeria and coordinating internal social media activities.
8. Providing support to the WR, cluster leaders, and other program officers in planning and developing relevant information and communications products.
9. Promoting WHO country office work through strategic corporate communications campaign plans and annual report compilation.
10. Identifying opportunities to liaise with national and international media and organizing regular and ad-hoc briefings.
11. Monitoring international and regional media and updating WHO staff on relevant media coverage.
12. Facilitating effective internal communication and staff engagement.
13. Assisting with resource mobilization efforts through disseminating key contributions of the country office.
14. Providing technical support for crisis management and capacity building on strategic communications.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• A First University Degree in Communication, Journalism, Political Science, or International Relations or a related field from an accredited/recognized institute.
• Desirable: Formal qualification in public health and courses in communication techniques.

Experience:

• At least five years of related experience in communication and/or advocacy, including supporting humanitarian emergency or health outbreak response and recovery activities.
• Proven experience in writing advocacy documents and producing communication materials.

Skills:

• Proven skills in developing and implementing communication/media products and tactics.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Ability to think innovatively and propose creative communication strategies.

WHO Competencies:

• Teamwork
• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
• Communication
• Producing results
• Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond

Language Skills:

• Expert knowledge of English.

Remuneration:

The annual base salary for this position starts at NGN28,030,973 and includes 30 days of annual leave, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance.

How to Apply:

Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the provided link.

Application Deadline:

The deadline for receipt of applications is 15th August 2023 at 10:59:00 PM.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and a written test may be used for screening purposes. WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.