Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• The UN Development System has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness, particularly through the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) which support countries in achieving their development priorities. The UN RCO in Sri Lanka is led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator, who oversees the coordination of UN activities in the country.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer plays a crucial role in the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Sri Lanka, focusing on developing and implementing communication strategies that effectively engage target audiences. This position requires a proactive approach to gathering insights from various media sources, including traditional, social, and digital platforms, to inform and shape communication strategies. The officer will be responsible for drafting narratives and messaging that resonate with diverse audiences, as well as fostering relationships with media outlets and stakeholders. The role also involves planning and coordinating media events, creating compelling content, and monitoring the effectiveness of communication strategies. The Associate Communications Officer will work closely with internal and external partners to advance UN priorities and ensure that communication efforts align with the overall mission of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Gather insights and analyze media monitoring data to inform communication strategies.
• Implement communication strategies that raise awareness and drive engagement with target audiences.
• Draft narratives and messaging on UN work for various channels.
• Map media outlets and foster relationships with traditional and new media.
• Prepare talking points and key messages for media interviews.
• Develop media lines for crisis situations and sensitive issues.
• Plan and coordinate press conferences and media events.
• Create optimized content for target audiences across platforms.
• Draft and produce communications products like press releases and reports. 1
• Develop and implement impactful communication campaigns. 1
• Coordinate strategic communications partnerships with stakeholders. 1
• Liaise with stakeholders for joint outreach and advocacy activities. 1
• Deliver in-person outreach strategies to engage audiences. 1
• Stay updated on communication trends and technologies. 1
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information. 1
• Monitor and report on communication strategies' performance. 1
• Develop digital communication strategies for social media and websites. 1
• Analyze data trends and provide insights through visualization methods. 1
• Document requirements for data analysis. 2
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills, public speaking abilities, and knowledge of digital design. They should be able to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making and convey information effectively. A strong understanding of sustainable development theories and the ability to conduct independent research is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communication strategies is required. Candidates should have demonstrated knowledge of strategic communications principles and practices, as well as the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences. Experience in creating engaging content and familiarity with current digital media platforms is desirable. One year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is also desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, but English is the primary requirement for this role.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Sri Lanka only, and candidates must be of the nationality of the country where the position is located. The recruitment process is subject to budgetary and intergovernmental approvals. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.