To increase awareness of the Polio Eradication Initiative's (PEI) work in EMR, with special emphasize on key programming, through the design and implementation of a comprehensive communication policy and strategy for the region.
To help ensure updated external messaging and narrative for the programme in polio affected countries and in the region.
To promote improvements in programmmes communications design and advocate for policy action
To strengthen capacity for effective coordination and communication activities (including relations with the media) during outbreaks and emergencies.
Description Of Duties:
The incumbent will perform the following duties: Contribute to development of a media and communications strategy for the polio eradication programme in the region and polio-affected and at-risk countries of the region Ensure that the strategies are aligned with and complement the Global Polio Eradication Initiative strategies
Work closely with the Media and Communications Units in the Regional Office and at HQ to make sure all communication approaches and products are aligned with the Regional and WHO Global standards and are all in compliance with WHO corporate regulations .
In consultation with senior management, identify and prioritize topics within the work of the polio programme that should be promoted through media communications and organize all the media events such as press briefings, journalists' trips, interviews, photo exhibits, etc.
Support the Unit in producing and compiling reports and contribute to the development of monthly and annual reports. Assist the programme in designing and editing publication material.
Monitor and analyze the news coverage and updates of the region's mainstream media, particularly in the fields related to health and polio eradication work, and provide support in preparation of periodical analytical clipping reports.
Develop WHO messages, media talking points, press releases, position statements, IEC, other communication materials and other types of media supporting documents to facilitate dissemination of key messages to the public and other stake holders. Contribute to developing country specific training materials and communication guidelines for WHO staff working in PEl and ensure that these are incorporated in WHO global and Regional training curricula, organize and facilitate communication capacity building training programmes for the country team on how to reach out to, and work effectively with, the media to promote the WHO role in PEl.
Work closely with regional and country teams and the cross-partnership Incident Management Support Team to support development and implementation of regional and country specific advocacy plans.
Required Qualifications: Education:
Essential: University degree in journalism, communications, social sciences or business administration.
Desirable: Studies or experience-based knowledge of advocacy and communications methods and technique.
Experience:
Essential: At least 5 years experience as a journalist or in a media organization (television, radio and/or print), with international exposure, or in the organization involved in information and communications projects and/or tactics related to humanitarian crises and response relief interventions.
Desirable: Experience in planning and implementing media and communications projects tactics, including the development of audio and visual materials and tools. Knowledge or understanding of WHO mandate and goals of PEl or experience in similar positions in the UN or NGOs.
Skills:
Proven skills in development and implementation of communications/media products and tactics, including relations with the press and media.
Excellent interpersonal skills complemented by the ability to conceptualize ideas and promote consensus.
Ability to work in emergency situation under pressure while producing results.
Knowledge or sound understanding of the social, political and economic contexts and their impact on communication and advocacy strategies.
Ability to "think out of the box" and to make innovative proposals as related to communication and advocacy. Tact, discretion and diplomacy.
Use of Language Skills:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English.
Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic.
