The World Health Organization (WHO) has opened a significant recruitment drive for a top-tier communications role, offering a lucrative salary and a chance to shape global public health messaging. The international body is seeking a Director of Communications to be based at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Prestigious Role and Key Responsibilities
This is a senior leadership position, classified at the Grade D2 level and offered on a two-year fixed-term contract. The successful candidate will lead WHO's worldwide communications strategy, acting as a principal advisor to the Director-General and other senior leaders on matters of public health communication that are both strategic and politically sensitive.
The Director will head the Department of Communications, which serves as the central nerve centre for the organisation's advocacy, political engagement, and efforts to mobilise resources. A core part of the job involves enhancing WHO's global visibility and credibility, crafting communication policies, and steering media relations, especially during public health emergencies.
Rigorous Qualifications and Experience Needed
WHO has set a high bar for applicants. Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as communications, journalism, public relations, international relations, or public health. A PhD in a relevant specialisation is considered a strong advantage.
More critically, applicants must demonstrate a substantial track record, with at least 15 years of professional experience in senior-level communications, strategic media management, or public relations. This experience must include advising top-tier leadership and managing both human and financial resources in an international context. Prior work with multilateral institutions or UN agencies will be beneficial.
Attractive Salary and Comprehensive Benefits Package
The remuneration package is notably attractive. The position comes with an annual base salary starting at USD 128,422. In addition, a monthly post adjustment of approximately USD 9,632 is provided for the Geneva cost of living.
The role also includes a suite of benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependents, home leave travel, and education grants for children. WHO also offers flexible work arrangements, parental leave, and extensive health and welfare benefits to its staff.
Commitment to Diversity and How to Apply
WHO strongly emphasises its commitment to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices. The organisation actively encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals from its underrepresented member states. It maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation, harassment, and all forms of abusive conduct.
Interested and qualified individuals must submit their applications through the WHO careers portal before the deadline of 11:59 PM on 15 January 2026. Applicants are advised to ensure their educational qualifications are recognised by the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The vacancy reference number is 2504374.
