Director, Communications

Responsibilities

Leads the development and articulation of a strategic global communications vision and implements a WHO global communications strategy. Advises the Director-General and Senior Leadership on politically sensitive and strategic matters related to the Organization's communication and public relations strategy in responding to a diverse array of complex global public health matters and emergencies. Provides strategic direction in the design and development of cutting-edge communication policies and strategies, ensuring consistent messaging and brand alignment across Headquarters, Regional and Country Offices.

Oversees, monitors and evaluates the impact of communication activities, products, and engagements throughout the organization to improve them. Establishes robust mechanisms for impact assessment, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement. Ensures strategies are strategic, coherent, mutually reinforcing, and strengthen the Organization's goals, reputation and impact. Champions the Organization's global visibility and credibility, offering authoritative guidance to senior leadership to position WHO as the preeminent voice in global public health and a model of communication excellence.

Directs the strategic development and implementation of the Department's communication policies and strategies across the three levels of the Organization, establishing robust mechanisms for impact assessment, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement. Leads the Organization's global media and crisis communication strategy, proactively identifying communication strategies to manage and/or leverage reputational risks and opportunities to promote WHO visibility and protect the Organization's reputation.

Ensures timely, transparent, and effective engagement with global audiences during public health emergencies and high-stakes events. Leads the development of a broader strategy to address misinformation and disinformation organization-wide to counteract potential negative influences on WHO's strategic role. Directs and manages the staff and resources of the Department of Communications. Oversees strategic planning, monitoring, and evaluation of the Department's portfolio, establishing global benchmarks and accountability frameworks to drive excellence and innovation in communication practices.

Builds and sustains high-level partnerships with global media, Member States, UN agencies, donors, and strategic stakeholders, leveraging these relationships to amplify WHO's voice and advance its global health mandate through a dynamic communications strategy. Supports resource mobilization efforts through targeted communications campaigns and donor engagement strategies designed to support and strengthen WHO's presence and impact at global, regional and country levels, ensuring that newly secured resources are strategically aligned.

Performs all other related duties as assigned.