Communications Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of advocacy for children's rights.

Job Overview:
The Communications Associate position at UNICEF Congo is pivotal in implementing the organization's communications and advocacy strategy. Under the guidance of the communications specialist, the incumbent will enhance public awareness and support for children's rights in Congo. This role involves creating compelling editorial content, engaging multimedia, and effective digital communications to reach broader audiences. The associate will also engage with media outlets to ensure timely coverage of UNICEF's work and advocate for children's rights in political and public agendas. The position requires a proactive approach to storytelling and advocacy, ensuring that children's needs are prioritized in national discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Editorial Communication/Writing-Based Content Creation: Draft and edit high-quality written content, including articles, reports, newsletters, and blogs. Ensure consistent messaging and storytelling to strengthen UNICEF’s public advocacy. Collaborate with program teams to translate technical information into accessible content for diverse audiences. Proofread and review external communication materials for accuracy and alignment with UNICEF’s voice.
• Visual Communications (Photo, Video & Graphic Design): Support the production of visual assets, working with photographers, videographers, and graphic designers as needed for projects and activities requiring a professional finish. Develop visual content to amplify UNICEF’s impact in the Republic of Congo and provide visibility and recognition to donors’ support.
• Digital Communications: Manage UNICEF Republic of Congo’s digital channels, including website and social media platforms. Develop and publish engaging content to enhance audience engagement. Monitor digital analytics to optimize content and engagement strategies. Create and run social media campaigns.
• Media Relations: Develop and maintain relationships with national and international media outlets. Educate and strengthen the media on children's rights and needs. Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and news articles. Coordinate media coverage for UNICEF events.
• Advocacy & Positioning Children’s Rights: Support advocacy initiatives to promote UNICEF’s priorities in policy discussions. Develop strategic messaging and campaign materials to influence key stakeholders. Organize and support high-profile events and advocacy campaigns to elevate children’s rights in the national agenda.

Required Qualifications:
Minimum requirements include completion of Secondary School and university-level courses in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related fields. A bachelor’s degree may replace three years of related work experience, while a master’s degree may replace an additional two years. Candidates should have at least seven years of practical professional work experience in communication, public relations, journalism, digital media, or related fields. Experience in international organizations or humanitarian contexts is highly desirable, along with expertise in content creation, digital engagement, media relations, and advocacy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed Secondary School, with university-level courses in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related fields. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field may substitute for three years of work experience, and a master’s degree may substitute for an additional two years of experience.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of practical professional work experience in communication, public relations, journalism, digital media, or related fields. Experience in international organizations, development agencies, or humanitarian contexts is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in content creation, digital engagement, media relations, and advocacy, along with practical knowledge of multimedia production.

Languages:
Fluency in French and proficiency in English are required. Knowledge of another UN official language or the local language of the duty station is considered an asset, along with relevant country-level experience, particularly in development, fragile, and humanitarian contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring additional vetting and assessment. UNICEF promotes an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment process and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives.