Overview
VACANCY NOTICE NO: 2398; DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: 5 October 2025; 21 day(s) until closing deadline - Currently accepting applications.
POST: Press and Media Officer
GRADE: P4
DUTY STATION: Geneva, Switzerland
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTY: To be determined
NATURE OF APPOINTMENT: Fixed-term - 1 year
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT: Global Communication and Engagement Office (GCEO).
WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age after 1 January 2014 is 65. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation.
Duties and responsibilities
ENGAGE THE WMO COMMUNITY AND BEYOND
Are you a skilled communicator with a passion for science and global impact? The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) seeks a dynamic Press and Media Officer to lead media engagement and storytelling efforts—translating complex scientific insights into compelling narratives that resonate worldwide.
What you will do
* Under the direct supervision of the Chief, Global Communication and Engagement, you will:
* Lead global media strategy — Develop and implement a proactive media engagement strategy that positions WMO as a trusted source of science-based information.
* Build and manage media relationships — Serve as the primary liaison to international media outlets, cultivating strong relationships with journalists, editors, and broadcasters.
* Craft high-impact media materials — Produce press releases, op-eds, media kits, and talking points that reflect WMO’s scientific and policy priorities.
* Coordinate high-profile media moments — Design and execute media strategies for flagship reports, emergency responses, and global events, working closely with internal teams and external partners.
* Monitor and advise on media impact — Track media coverage, assess reputational risks, and provide strategic advice to senior leadership.
* Support crisis and strategic communications — Develop FAQs, messaging, and media plans for sensitive issues and high-stakes moments.
* Train and empower spokespeople — Provide media coaching and tools to WMO experts and Member States, strengthening global communication capacity.
* Collaborate across the UN system — Represent WMO in interagency communications platforms and joint campaigns that amplify global partnerships.
Why this role matters
This role is central to how WMO connects with the public, policymakers, and international partners. As Press and Media Officer, you will elevate WMO’s visibility and credibility across global media platforms, ensuring our voice is heard on critical issues like climate action, early warning systems, and disaster risk reduction.
Qualifications
Education
Master\'s degree or equivalent in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field. A first-level university degree or equivalent in combination with two years of additional directly relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the master\'s degree.
Experience
* A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in press relations or media management, preferably in an international or scientific context.
* Demonstrated success in positioning complex scientific or policy issues for media consumption.
* Familiarity with UN communications protocols and international development priorities is desirable.
Other requirements
YOUR PROFILE
We’re seeking a media-savvy professional with:
* Demonstrated in-depth understanding of media relations, including state-of-the-art methodologies and tools.
* Strong news sense and active following of global news.
* Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
* Demonstrated stakeholder engagement and networking skills with internal and external audiences. Agility in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
* Experience in reputational risk mitigation and management.
* Cultural and political sensitivity.
* Results orientation and teamwork.
* Strong writing and editorial skills, with the ability to translate technical content into accessible stories.
* A deep understanding of global media dynamics and reputational risk management.
* Experience working in or with international organizations, ideally within the UN system.
Competencies
The Press and Media Officer must possess managerial-level proficiency in the following competencies:
* Communication & Influence
* Collaboration & Team Dynamics
* Inclusive Mindset & Cultural Awareness
* Decision Making & Problem Solving
* Integrity & Accountability
* Innovation & Digital Agility
* Stakeholder Understanding & Engagement
Languages
Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of other UN languages, particularly French or Spanish, is an asset. The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.
The position is funded from regular budget. New appointments on fixed-term contract of one year or more shall be subject to an initial one-year probation period.
Salary and allowances
Annual net base salary on initial appointment is: US$ 84,672
Annual post adjustment on initial salary is: US$ 75,104 (in addition to the net base salary)
Additional Information
Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system at https://erecruit.wmo.int/public. Do not send your application via multiple routes. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview.
Date of issue of vacancy notice: 5 September 2025
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