Senior Communications Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting is for a position within the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an organization established to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR's mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily. The organization operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to humanitarian efforts and advocacy for the rights of refugees and displaced individuals. UNHCR is committed to upholding the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence in its operations, ensuring that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are met with dignity and respect.

Job Overview:
The Senior Communications Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the communications efforts of UNHCR, particularly in the context of Ukraine. This position involves working closely with the Communication Officer and other team members to ensure effective communication strategies are implemented. The incumbent will be responsible for monitoring media coverage and local situations related to UNHCR, organizing press briefings, and contributing to the production of informational materials aimed at raising public awareness about the organization's work. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for communication and managing risks associated with the organization's objectives. The Senior Communications Assistant will also be expected to maintain a comprehensive filing system and assist in drafting various communications materials, ensuring that all outputs align with UNHCR's core values and regulatory frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Communications Assistant include:

• Regularly monitoring media and local situations regarding UNHCR to stay informed about relevant developments.
• Following up on administrative and logistical arrangements to organize press briefings, workshops, and conferences.
• Contributing to the production of information materials for public awareness campaigns, including articles, reports, and newsletters.
• Liaising with printers regarding brochures and publications produced by the office.
• Drafting routine correspondence and texts for the office's website, as well as maintaining information databases.
• Compiling and distributing a daily news clipping service to keep the team updated on relevant news.
• Distributing press statements and similar information to media and other offices, both locally and at Headquarters.
• Maintaining an up-to-date filing system and appointments diary for the communications team.
• Supporting the identification and management of risks while seeking opportunities that impact the objectives of the communications unit. 1
• Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor or senior management.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Essential skills include communication and computer proficiency, excellent drafting abilities, and translation and interpreting skills.
• Desirable qualifications include completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position.
• Functional skills in journalism, drafting and documentation, digital content production, and social media publishing are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma as a minimum requirement, with a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as International Relations, Journalism, or Political Science being preferred. Relevant certifications in these areas are also beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have some work experience relevant to the position, particularly in digital communications and social media management. Experience working with a UN agency, humanitarian organization, or another international entity is highly desirable. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to produce engaging digital content and manage social media channels effectively, as well as possess excellent computer skills and proficiency in MS Office applications.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written, along with knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For this position, fluency in Ukrainian is also required. Candidates should have an overall language ability of at least B2 level in the required languages, ensuring effective communication in both local and international contexts.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position with the possibility of extension, classified under the General Service grade GS

• The role is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, with a residential location in Budapest, Hungary. The target start date for this position is December 1, 2025, and the target end date is February 28, 202
• The position is non-family with residential arrangements, and the incumbent may be eligible for hardship pay. The role requires a proactive individual who can work independently and collaboratively within a team, managing multiple tasks under pressure while maintaining a high standard of work.