Strategic Communications Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women, ensuring that development efforts are inclusive and sustainable. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, collaborating with a wide range of partners to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Communications Analyst will play a crucial role in supporting the Mine Action Project within UNDP, particularly in the context of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. This position is vital for developing and implementing effective communication strategies that highlight the achievements of the Mine Action Project, engage affected communities, and promote awareness of mine action issues. The incumbent will be responsible for creating coherent and impactful communications that resonate with various stakeholders, including donors, government agencies, and the general public. The role requires a deep understanding of the socio-economic challenges facing Ukraine and the importance of effective communication in addressing these issues. The Analyst will work closely with the Mine Action Project team to ensure that communications align with national priorities and UNDP's mission, while also promoting gender-responsive practices in all communications efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Communications Analyst will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy for the Mine Action Project that aligns with UNDP's objectives and national mine action priorities.
• Providing strategic advice and messaging support to the project team to enhance donor visibility and stakeholder engagement.
• Coordinating with the Government of Ukraine to ensure unified messaging around mine action initiatives.
• Identifying and leveraging communication opportunities related to project milestones, policy achievements, and field success stories.
• Drafting, editing, and producing various communication materials, such as press releases, fact sheets, videos, and social media content.
• Maintaining a consistent visual identity for mine action-related products and ensuring culturally appropriate messaging for diverse stakeholders.
• Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, media outlets, and civil society organizations, to raise awareness of mine action issues.
• Monitoring the impact of communication efforts and using data to refine strategies and improve content.
• Supporting knowledge-sharing and training activities to enhance internal communication capacity within the Mine Action Project and the broader UNDP communications team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in the aforementioned fields, combined with two additional years of relevant experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in strategic communications, media relations, advocacy, or similar fields, with a preference for candidates who have experience in development, humanitarian, or post-conflict contexts. Strong writing, editing, and visual storytelling skills are essential, along with proven experience in developing communication materials and strategies. Familiarity with digital communication tools and engagement with governmental institutions and international organizations is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree in these fields may be considered if they have additional relevant experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of communication in a development context, particularly in a challenging environment like Ukraine.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or four years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should be in strategic communications, media relations, advocacy, or similar fields. Candidates with a proven track record in developing communication strategies and materials in development, humanitarian, or post-conflict settings will be preferred. Experience in mine action or humanitarian mine risk education is also advantageous, as is familiarity with UNDP or UN communications standards.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Ukrainian is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government officials, and international partners. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing outreach efforts and stakeholder engagement.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, and is expected to be full-time. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or abuse of authority and has strict policies in place to ensure a safe and respectful work environment. Candidates should be aware that UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to be cautious of potential scams.