Publications Associate

The Publications Associate supports the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office's publishing programme by assisting in monitoring workplans, reviewing publication proposals, proofreading, coordinating promotional activities, and managing publication logistics to ensure quality and adherence to WHO standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist in monitoring the implementation of the operational workplan and activities for WPRO publishing programme including production of publications, dissemination and promotional activities and attendance at global, inter-regional and regional meetings relating to publications.
• Conduct initial review of product proposals and requests for publishing articles in external journals and information products providing guidance on completion ahead of clearance.
• Proofread formatted and laid out information products, for quality assurance before approval of supervisor, ensuring brand adherence, accurate transfer of text from approved manuscripts and graphic designs as appropriate.
• Develop and maintain an effective follow-up mechanism to track and monitor ongoing products.
• Guide other members of the WPRO Publications team in managing workload, skills development and possible work process improvements to ensure efficient and effective services.
• Assist with the updating of promotional channels and materials with the latest or priority WHO publications in coordination with relevant technical units and country offices.
• Regularly review journals and magazines in the region, liaise with associations, organizations exploring joint promotion activities, highlighting promotional opportunities to the KMU Technical Lead.
• Provide guidance to Regional technical units and Country Offices on their publication needs and promotions especially during preparation for in-country meetings and workshops ensuring compliance with global guidelines and regional developments.
• Coordinate graphic design, printing services as well as translations for WPRO publications, including initial evaluation of quotations from suppliers for quality of deliverables and value for money and contract issuance.
• Maintain records of the sales and distribution of any individual publications, prepare sales performance report as required, monitor royalty payments due, ensure dispatch of others.
• Prepare flyers and materials for distribution and set up Publication booth and other promotion opportunities during the RCM. Receive and process orders.
• Keep track and assign ISBN/ISSN and DOI to every new publications issued by the Regional Office and provide advice on copyright issues and ensure the correct use of logos.
• Ensure that published regional publications are prominently displayed and available for browsing including digital display of new titles at designated publications display areas.

Requirements

• Completion of secondary education supplemented by training in publications and office administration.
• A university degree in mass communications or a related field is desirable.
• A minimum of eight years experience in administrative management of publications.
• Experience handling health-related publications is desirable.
• Related experience within WHO or another United Nations agency is desirable.
• Knowledge of WHO rules, regulations, support procedures, practices, rules, and regulations in one or more of the specialized operations' support disciplines.
• In-depth knowledge of additional operational service areas with less complex rules and procedures.
• Proven team management, mentoring and facilitation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Expert knowledge of English and local language.
• Knowledge of French or Chinese is desirable.

Skills

• Publications Management
• Office Management
• Health Publications
• WHO Rules and Regulations
• Operational Support Procedures
• Team Management
• Mentorship
• Facilitation
• Work Plan Monitoring
• Publication Proposal Review
• Proofreading
• Promotional Coordination
• Publication Logistics
• English Language Proficiency

Languages

English, local language, French, Chinese