Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Coordination Office (DCO) is an integral part of the United Nations system, established to enhance the effectiveness of the Resident Coordinator system (RCS). The DCO operates with teams in New York and five regional offices, focusing on managerial and oversight functions. The organization is committed to advancing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through strategic communications and outreach efforts. The DCO collaborates with various UN entities and regional teams to promote transparency, accountability, and public engagement. The CRRS, a section within DCO, plays a crucial role in global communications and results reporting, supporting Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams in their efforts to communicate the impact of the UN's work.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer position is a vital role within the Communications and Results Reporting Section (CRRS) of the DCO, located in Bangkok. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic communications initiatives that enhance the visibility and understanding of the UN's work in the Asia and Pacific region. This role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including Resident Coordinators, UN Country Teams, and regional UN entities, to create compelling narratives and messaging that resonate with target audiences. The Communications Officer will also be tasked with monitoring media trends, managing crisis communications, and ensuring that the UN's communications strategies align with its overall objectives. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for engagement and building support for UN initiatives, as well as a commitment to fostering a positive team culture and promoting professional development among team members.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will undertake a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing analysis and advice on strategic communications issues; developing and implementing communications strategies; drafting narratives and messaging for various platforms; conducting media outreach and relationship building; planning and coordinating press events; collaborating with stakeholders on joint outreach activities; creating policy and guidance documents; monitoring media trends and public narratives; managing crisis communications; advising senior management on reputational risks; and producing reports and presentations on communications outcomes. The role also involves maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information, as well as ensuring consistency in messaging across all digital channels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of strategic communications principles and practices, as well as experience in managing crisis communications and reputational risks. The ideal candidate will demonstrate critical thinking skills, project management abilities, and proficiency in digital media platforms. Knowledge of media monitoring tools, data protection standards, and emerging technologies is essential. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders is also crucial, as is a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity in all communications efforts.

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. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international communications and the UN's operational framework.

Experience:
A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, or related fields is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in applying policy and guidance in strategic communications, as well as the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion. Experience in crisis communications and managing reputational risks is also essential, along with skills in data visualization and writing for digital platforms.

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 is rated as '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 in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment processes, ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly and equitably, regardless of their backgrounds. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.