Communications and Advocacy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to crises. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women, ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders including civil society, the private sector, and other UN agencies to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Advocacy Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Joint Programme to Strengthen Urban and Rural Resilience and the Conditions for Recovery in Syria. This position is vital for promoting public and media outreach, advocating for support for UN organizations, and ensuring effective communication strategies are in place. The Specialist will work closely with the Joint Programme Manager and other stakeholders to design and manage communication products that align with the objectives of the Joint Programme. The role requires a strategic approach to communications, focusing on both internal and external audiences, and ensuring that the messaging is consistent and impactful. The Specialist will also facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building among stakeholders, contributing to the overall success of the programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Planning and design of internal and external strategy for communications and outreach, including conducting communications needs assessments and developing a comprehensive communications strategy for the Joint Programme.
• Elaboration and implementation of the Joint Programme publications strategy, managing all publication activities, including content management, design, and dissemination.
• Supporting campaigns and public information efforts, including launching initiatives, managing advocacy materials, and maintaining media contacts.
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing best practices related to the Joint Programme's goals and activities.
• Collaborating with national stakeholders, donors, and civil society to implement the communications strategy effectively.
• Responding to inquiries for public information materials and addressing sensitive public communications issues.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of communication strategies and making necessary adjustments to improve outreach and engagement.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University Degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communications, media relations, journalism, publishing, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a First level University degree (Bachelor’s Degree) with an additional 2 years of qualifying experience will be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience at the national or international level in public relations, communications, and advocacy is required for candidates with a master’s degree, or 7 years for those with a bachelor’s degree.
• Proven experience with Adobe Creative Cloud or similar software for designing and creating data visualizations, infographics, and reports is required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with excellent organizational abilities.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either an Advanced University Degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communications, media relations, journalism, publishing, or a related field. Alternatively, a First level University degree (Bachelor’s Degree) in the above fields, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform effectively in the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master's degree, or 7 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should be at the national or international level in public relations, communications, and advocacy. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of developing and implementing communication strategies, managing public relations campaigns, and engaging with diverse stakeholders. Experience working in complex environments, particularly in crisis or post-conflict settings, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both written and oral, is required. Additionally, proficiency in Arabic, both written and oral, is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders, media, and international partners, ensuring that the Specialist can engage with a wide range of audiences and convey messages clearly and effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Damascus, Syria, and may involve collaboration with various UN agencies and local stakeholders. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in a challenging environment. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future.