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 in New York and five regional offices, focusing on the collective ownership of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG). The DCO's mission is to support the UN's efforts in achieving sustainable development goals through effective coordination and communication. The organization emphasizes transparency, accountability, and public engagement, working closely with Resident Coordinators, UN Country Teams, and various UN entities to advance its objectives. The DCO is committed to fostering innovation and utilizing digital tools to enhance its communication strategies and outreach efforts.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Communications Officer position is integral to the Communications and Results Reporting Section (CRRS) of the DCO, located in Bangkok. This role involves providing strategic editorial support to enhance the visibility and impact of the UN's work across Asia and the Pacific. The incumbent will collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including Resident Coordinators, UN Country Teams, and regional UN entities, to develop and implement effective communication strategies that resonate with target audiences. 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 reputational risks, and fostering peer learning and collaboration among communications teams. This role is pivotal in shaping a coherent narrative that reflects the UN's priorities and values in complex regional contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Communications Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: providing analysis and advice on strategic communications issues; developing and implementing communications strategies; drafting compelling narratives and messaging; conducting media outreach and relationship building; planning and coordinating press events; collaborating with stakeholders for joint advocacy activities; creating policy and training materials; monitoring media trends and public narratives; managing crisis communications; advising senior management on reputational risks; and ensuring consistency in messaging across all platforms. The officer will also be responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of communication strategies and preparing reports for internal stakeholders. Additionally, the role involves representing the organization at public events and building partnerships to amplify advocacy messages.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of strategic communications principles and practices, including crisis communications and reputational risk management. They should demonstrate critical thinking skills, project management abilities, and knowledge of digital media platforms. The role requires proficiency in media monitoring tools and data protection standards. Candidates should also exhibit strong writing and communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences. A commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information is essential.

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, highlighting the importance of practical experience in the field.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, or related areas is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in applying strategic communications policies and guidance, as well as skills in managing confidentiality and integrity principles. Experience in crisis communications and the ability to assess threats to information integrity is desirable. Familiarity with data visualization tools and the ability to write for digital platforms is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as French, 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 emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. All applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening has been posted.