Derek Fromson is a strategic communications professional who has contributed to global public health through his work as director of communications at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). PAHO is the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Americas. Derek Fromson held this position from 2014 to 2016, overseeing public health communications and collaboration with country offices and international partners across the Americas.
During his tenure, Mr. Fromson oversaw 30 communications specialists and coordinated communication activities involving PAHO headquarters and 30 country offices. His responsibilities covered digital strategy, public affairs, multimedia production, publications, design, and brand management. He worked with ministries of health, the WHO, and other national and international organizations to align communications efforts and support the dissemination of public health information.
Mr. Fromson also contributed to public health awareness through bilingual communications. He introduced social media management guidelines for English and Spanish content on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Following their introduction, annual mentions, retweets, and followers tripled. These efforts supported communication campaigns addressing noncommunicable diseases, maternal health, universal health coverage, and natural disasters.
Public engagement was also part of Mr. Fromson’s work at PAHO/WHO. In partnership with the United Nations Foundation, he moderated and hosted Social Good livestream broadcasts in English and Spanish. The broadcasts informed audiences about food safety concerns and the impact of PAHO’s vaccination initiatives across the region. In 2015, PAHO’s department of communications received the International Human Rights Day Award for its work promoting health and related human rights.