Team Lead, Strategic Communications and Management(SCM)
Organizational Context
The Strategic Communications team within WHO/AFRO's Office of the Regional Director aims to enhance the organization's communication capacity for health advocacy and impact showcasing. This role, reporting to the Director of the Regional Director's Office, serves as the chief communications strategist for WHO in the African Region, advising senior management on external communications and media relations to foster a positive, health-leadership image.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this role is to lead WHO/AFRO's strategic communications efforts, enhancing its capacity to advocate for key health issues and demonstrate the impact of its work. This involves developing and implementing a regional communications strategy, managing internal communications, and building the communications capacity of country offices. The role acts as the chief communications strategist, advising the Regional Director and senior management on external communications, media relations, and public engagement to secure WHO's position as a regional health leader and influence health policies. The incumbent will lead a team to execute advocacy campaigns, produce high-quality communication materials, and ensure cohesive messaging across the region, ultimately supporting the organization's overall objectives and facilitating its ability to shape health policies.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include coordinating and implementing the unit's work plan and regional communications strategy, encompassing branding, reputation management, internal communications, and capacity building. The role involves acting as an expert advisor to the Regional Director and senior officials on external communications, media relations, and strategic responses to public health issues. This includes supervising the drafting and production of communications materials such as press releases, talking points, and multimedia content, as well as providing backup for speechwriting. The incumbent will guide communication efforts across clusters and country offices, facilitate cohesive communication through a network of officers, and lead capacity-building initiatives in communications, including media coaching. Additionally, the role involves supervising the Internal Communications Officer, supporting intranet and e-platform maintenance, leading and managing unit staff, and facilitating cross-cluster collaboration.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of relevant experience at national and international levels is required, focusing on developing and implementing public information initiatives for health programs, health communication, and advocacy. Experience in creating communications and advocacy materials for mass media and policymakers, and experience as an organizational spokesperson on health issues are also essential. Proficiency in computer literacy and standard office software packages, including eHealth tools, is necessary.
Skills
Key skills include: thorough knowledge of diverse communication channels (print, web, broadcast); understanding of communication's impact on organizational reputation and image; strong professional writing skills for speeches, media products, and information materials; ability to engage articulately and diplomatically with press, colleagues, and senior leaders; willingness to serve as a public figure; ability to maintain poise; and working knowledge of executing an international organization's role, mandates, and strategies.