The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.

The Global Communications Group is the central Forum team dedicated to communications with the public, media, stakeholders and staff in relation to the Forum’s mission. Through multiple channels, the Group is responsible for communicating the work of the Forum and its constituents, reaching, growing, engaging and inspiring diverse and interested audiences.

Why we are recruiting

The Group is expanding and consolidating its strategy. It is composed of four key functions: Communication Strategy and Communications, Public Engagement, Media Engagement, and Stakeholder and Staff Engagement. The Head of Media Content will work within the Media Engagement function and will be responsible for the conception, crafting, delivery and pitching of all content produced by the Forum and intended for an external media audience, to promote the Forum’s activities and impact.

Reporting Lines & Interactions

The role will report to the Head of Media Engagement and lead one or more professionals. Internally, it will liaise with colleagues across the Global Communications Group and the broader Forum. Externally, it will engage with leading communication and media professionals and organizations.

Key responsibilities

• Convert the Group’s overall communication strategy into compelling media engagement content, drawing from the work of the Forum’s Centres and connecting to both a longer-term editorial calendar as well as current affairs and news relevance.

• Oversee and guide the development of media-focused communication formats (including issue briefings, press releases/conferences and media pitching packages) ensuring relevant and compelling messaging and supporting fair and objective representation of the work of the Forum and its constituents.

• Develop narratives, messaging and media talking points for Forum’s institutional events and activities; contribute to the development of op-eds that effectively communicate the Forum’s mission and purpose of its impact-oriented initiatives.

• Manage the International Media Council – a community of top-media leaders – as a peer exchange group and with an objective of contributing to the Forum’s mission.

• Contribute to media engagement into Forum events and activities, with a view to expanding volume and quality of coverage in relevant media outlets.

• Identify and remain at the forefront of the latest communication trends and formats as well as emerging trends relating to the breadth of topics covered by the Forum’s work, informing the Forum’s media engagement content and formats accordingly.

• Manage a team of communication professionals, acting as a role model for the team, providing leadership and supporting team members to grow and excel.

• Serve as a crucial member of the Global Communications Group team, developing trusted internal relationships across the team and the organization.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, including media and communication professionals, as well as suppliers, advisors and consultants.

The successful candidate will be assessed on

• Successful conception and implementation of a robust and comprehensive media content strategy.

• Successful delivery of engaging and compelling media-specific communication formats.

• Successful delivery of compelling narratives and positioning messaging for Forum institutional events.

• Effective contribution to the crafting and delivery of institutional op-eds.

• Successful management of the International Media Council and contribution to the creation and evolution of regional councils.

• Accurate and objective coverage of the work of the Forum and its constituents.

• Strong understanding of the Forum’s mission and impact.

• Ongoing learning of the media landscape.

• Successfully lead a team of communication leaders and professionals, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, trust and institutional stewardship.

• Represent effectively the Forum externally, in interactions with external constituents, as well as at institutional events.

Required qualifications

• Advanced degree in communications, journalism, international relations, political science or other relevant areas.

• 12+ years of relevant work experience in journalism, communications or public relations with a proven track record of effectively leading the development of media content.

• Strong editorial skills with proven and persuasive writing and speaking with demonstrated ability to understand complex themes, the global landscape and a strong mission orientation.

• Strong understanding of the evolving media landscape, inclusive of dynamics deriving from “digital-first” trends and the role of social media platforms; experience in managing a communities of high-profile stakeholders would be a strong plus.

• Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal. Proficiency in other languages a valued asset.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities simultaneously.

• Experienced manager with a demonstrated ability to lead, develop and grow a team.

Why work at the Forum

The World Economic Forum believes that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to improve the state of the world by building awareness and cooperation, shaping mindsets and agendas and driving collective action. Join us and become a driver for positive change.

Why work at the Forum:

The Forum believes that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to improve the state of the world by building awareness and cooperation, shaping mindsets and agendas, and driving collective action. Join us and become a driver for positive change!