Consultant for Communications and Advocacy

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a critical role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates in numerous countries worldwide, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to promote sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The Green Growth Knowledge Partnership (GGKP), which is led by UNEP along with other prominent organizations such as the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the World Bank, aims to empower decision-makers with evidence-based knowledge to support the transition to a green economy. The GGKP provides best practice knowledge management services through its core platforms, focusing on green policy, industry, and finance. UNEP is currently executing the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded Coordination, Communication, and Knowledge Management (CCKM) project under the ISLANDS Programme, which aims to improve chemicals and waste management in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a vital role in supporting the effective implementation of the FARM and ISLANDS communications and advocacy strategies, as well as stakeholder engagement plans. This position involves maintaining digital platforms such as social media and websites, and developing communication materials that enhance the visibility and outreach of the programmes. The consultant will work closely with the GGKP ISLANDS and FARM Communications Specialist and Project Managers, contributing to the overall mission of promoting sustainable practices and effective management of agricultural chemicals and waste. The role requires a proactive approach to digital content creation, stakeholder engagement, and the execution of communication campaigns that align with the goals of the FARM and ISLANDS initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's specific tasks will include providing support to the Communications and Outreach Specialist in updating communications plans for FARM and ISLANDS, monitoring and updating communications templates and brand kits, and maintaining a databank of multimedia resources. The consultant will assist in delivering campaigns, events, and communication training, as well as managing digital channels related to the projects. This includes developing editorial plans for digital content, producing communications assets for social media and websites, and supporting the development of knowledge products. The consultant will also be responsible for liaising with communication focal points of child projects, conducting desk research, and identifying potential podcast hosts or media for outreach efforts. Performance indicators will include the timely and qualitative support provided to the projects in maintaining brand guidelines and managing digital channels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in communications, media, or a closely related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with six additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of six years of relevant professional experience in communications, digital content creation, and social media is required. Experience in sustainable development, private sector engagement, and environmental issues is essential, along with knowledge of behavior change and advocacy campaigns. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required, and skills in design tools such as Canva or Adobe InDesign, as well as video editing, are desirable. Proven ability to work in a multitasking environment and experience in international organizations are also important.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in communications, media, or a closely related area is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have significant additional experience in relevant fields.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience in communications, digital content creation, and social media. Candidates should have experience working on topics related to sustainable development, chemicals and waste management, and stakeholder engagement. Experience in advocacy campaigns and working in international organizations is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for 12 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not request any financial information from applicants at any stage.