Communications Support Officer
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in the Philippines (CO) aims to increase public health awareness and disseminate WHO recommendations. This role supports the CO's communication strategy, focusing on health education, promotion, and advocacy. It also strengthens communication capacity during emergencies and supports internal communications within the WHO Philippines workforce.
Job Purpose
The Communications Support Officer is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies to raise awareness of public health issues and WHO's work in the Philippines. This involves creating and disseminating communication products, managing media relations, and organizing events to enhance the visibility and impact of WHO programs. The role also supports advocacy efforts, resource mobilization, and effective communication during health emergencies, ensuring alignment with WHO guidelines and national health priorities. A key aspect is leveraging an understanding of local linguistic, social, and cultural norms to tailor communication effectively to diverse stakeholders and audiences.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement communication strategies and plans to raise awareness of key health issues and encourage appropriate actions. Support the WHO corporate communication strategy to improve understanding and visibility of the Organization’s programmes and achievements. Identify success stories and develop communications and advocacy products. Manage outreach and dissemination through various channels, including website, traditional, and social media. Organize events, campaigns, and media briefings. Build and maintain media and national communication networks. Apply knowledge of local norms for content development and effective communication product delivery. Monitor media and social media to track perceptions and identify reputational risks. Collaborate with national stakeholders and partners on health campaigns and advocate for organizational priorities. Support emergency risk communications, social mobilization, and community engagement. Provide training on communication and media sensitization for WHO staff.
Work Experience
Essential: Minimum of two years of relevant work experience in developing and implementing communication strategies, services, and products at the national level. Desirable: Experience with the World Health Organization, other UN agencies, government health agencies, or NGOs.
Skills
Expertise in communication, media relations, social media, web content management, advocacy, public relations, journalistic writing, international relations, and networking. Ability to work collaboratively in a team, adapt to diverse cultural backgrounds, and maintain high ethical standards. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, web content management systems, graphic design, video production, social listening, and social media analytics. Expert knowledge of English and the local language.