Chief of Service, Public Information and Strategic Communication

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). MONUSCO was established to support the Congolese government in maintaining peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the region. The mission operates with a focus on stabilizing the country and facilitating humanitarian assistance. The organization is committed to promoting human rights and fostering sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. MONUSCO employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders, including local communities, government entities, and international organizations, to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Service, Public Information and Strategic Communication will lead the substantive work program of the Public Information and Strategic Communications Division (SCPID) of MONUSCO. This role involves serving as the principal strategic communications adviser to the Mission and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG). The incumbent will be responsible for formulating, implementing, and managing the Mission's integrated public information and communication strategy, which encompasses both internal and external communications activities. The position requires a proactive approach to managing communications, including the development of partnerships and outreach strategies to enhance the Mission's visibility and credibility. The Chief of Service will also oversee the digital media strategy and ensure effective communication in response to misinformation and disinformation campaigns. This role is critical in promoting the positive work of the Mission through data-driven storytelling and strategic engagement with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Service will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including leading the SCPID's work program, managing the Mission's public information strategy, and overseeing all media relations. Specific duties include:

• Leading the development and implementation of the Mission's integrated public information and communication strategy.
• Managing all SCPID units, including multimedia channels such as radio, television, web, and social media.
• Tracking and responding to misinformation and disinformation campaigns.
• Ensuring effective public outreach and developing partnerships with key audiences.
• Overseeing the administration and budget management of SCPID, including preparing cost estimates and monitoring expenditures.
• Supervising recruitment and training of staff within the Division.
• Planning and executing public information activities, including media events and press conferences.
• Advising Mission leadership on strategic communication matters and representing the Mission in public forums.
• Developing institutional public relations and communication policies in alignment with UN objectives. 1
• Building partnerships with media outlets, civil society, and government entities to support Mission objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in strategic communications, communications, public relations, international relations, broadcasting, new media, or relevant disciplines such as social sciences or political sciences. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of digital media, strategic communications, and public information management within large multicultural institutions.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields related to communications, public relations, or international relations. Candidates with a first-level university degree and extensive experience in relevant areas may also be considered. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in strategic communication principles and practices.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, public information, or media management, particularly within large multicultural organizations. A minimum of five years of experience in crisis communications techniques and strategies is required. Experience in managing digital and social media tools, as well as familiarity with UN administrative procedures, is also essential. Candidates should have a proven track record in developing partnerships and securing funding for communication initiatives.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required, with a minimum UN Level III proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both languages. This level indicates a high degree of fluency and the ability to communicate effectively in a professional context.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 30 June 202

• If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The position may be limited to internal candidates based at the duty station, and applicants must adhere to the UN's standards of integrity and professionalism. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.