Communication Specialist (National Consultant)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Communication Specialist (National Consultant) will play a crucial role in supporting the Project Manager of the Provincial Government Service Delivery (PGSD) initiative. This position involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including provincial governments, school management committees, school administrations, and healthcare service providers. The primary function of this role is to capture and communicate the results and direct benefits of the project by collecting relevant information and publishing human interest stories in national media outlets. The consultant will be expected to effectively convey the impact of the project to a broader audience, thereby enhancing visibility and engagement with the community. The assignment is set for a period of 30 days, spanning from September through December 2025, during which the consultant will be expected to deliver high-quality communication outputs that align with the project's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Communication Specialist include but are not limited to:

• Collaborating with the Project Manager and relevant stakeholders to identify key messages and success stories related to the PGSD initiative.
• Collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing information from various sources to create compelling narratives that highlight the project's impact.
• Writing and publishing articles, press releases, and human interest stories in national media to promote the project's achievements.
• Developing communication materials such as brochures, newsletters, and social media content to engage with the community and stakeholders.
• Organizing and facilitating workshops or events to disseminate project results and gather feedback from stakeholders.
• Monitoring media coverage and public perception of the project, providing recommendations for improvement.
• Ensuring that all communication outputs adhere to UNDP's branding and communication guidelines.
• Providing regular updates to the Project Manager on communication activities and outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Communication Specialist position should possess the following qualifications:

• Proven experience in communication, journalism, or public relations, preferably within the development sector.
• Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality content for various audiences and platforms.
• Familiarity with media relations and experience in engaging with journalists and media outlets.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using digital communication tools and platforms, including social media, to enhance outreach efforts.
• Knowledge of the local context in the Solomon Islands and understanding of the challenges faced by provincial governments and communities.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of communication strategies in development contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in communication, journalism, or public relations. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of development projects, is highly desirable. The candidate should have a track record of successfully managing communication initiatives and producing impactful content that resonates with target audiences.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communication outputs will be produced in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Solomon Islands would be considered an asset, as it would enhance the consultant's ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term consultancy role with a contract duration of 30 days, covering the period from September to December 202

• The consultant will be expected to work on a full-time basis during this period. The role is open to national candidates, and the compensation will be commensurate with the consultant's experience and qualifications. Interested candidates must submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline of 20 August 2025.