Strategic Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (DCO) is a key entity within the United Nations system, established to enhance the effectiveness of the Resident Coordinator system (RCS). The DCO operates globally, with teams located in New York and five regional offices. Its mission is to support the UN's Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG) in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through effective coordination and communication. The DCO plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration among UN agencies, ensuring transparency, accountability, and public engagement in UN initiatives. The organization is committed to innovation and the ethical use of digital tools, aiming to improve the impact of UN operations worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Communications Officer position is integral to the Communications and Results Reporting Section (CRRS) of the DCO. This role involves providing strategic editorial support to enhance the visibility and impact of the UN's work, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. The incumbent will collaborate closely with Resident Coordinators, UN Country Teams, and various regional entities to develop and implement effective communication strategies. The position requires a strong focus on data-driven storytelling, crisis communication, and the ethical use of digital tools. The officer will be responsible for producing high-impact media content, managing relationships with media outlets, and ensuring that the UN's messaging is coherent and aligned with its strategic objectives. This role is pivotal in shaping public perceptions of the UN and its initiatives, particularly in politically and operationally complex environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Communications Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Analyzing and advising on strategic communications issues, identifying opportunities for proactive communications, and managing reputational risks.
• Monitoring traditional, social, and digital media to inform communications strategies and public narratives.
• Developing and implementing comprehensive communications strategies that engage target audiences and drive measurable impact.
• Drafting compelling narratives and messaging for various platforms to effectively communicate the UN's work.
• Coordinating press conferences, media events, and outreach activities to advance UN priorities.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to deliver joint advocacy initiatives.
• Maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information, in compliance with UN standards.
• Providing guidance and support to team members to foster professional development and a positive team culture.
• Managing crisis communications and coordinating responses with relevant stakeholders. 1
• Evaluating the effectiveness of communications strategies and reporting on outcomes to inform future initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, or related fields. They should demonstrate a strong understanding of strategic communications principles and practices, including crisis communications and reputational risk management. The ability to apply policy and guidance in strategic communications is essential, along with skills in data visualization and digital content creation. Candidates should also have experience in monitoring media and assessing threats to information integrity. Strong writing skills for digital platforms and the ability to manage large volumes of data are desirable qualifications.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of relevant experience in communications or international relations, with a focus on strategic communications. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in applying confidentiality and integrity principles, as well as the ability to detect and assess threats to information integrity. Experience in data visualization and writing for digital platforms is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, while fluency in Spanish is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'Fluent' in all four areas (reading, speaking, writing, and understanding), while 'Knowledge of' indicates a rating of 'Confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is open for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on funding availability. The selected candidate will receive a fixed-term appointment limited in accordance with UN administrative instructions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.