Part-time Communications Consultant Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), which was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. The ECA works closely with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to enhance the continent's development agenda. The organization has a long-standing partnership with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) to enhance land governance and policy in Africa. The ECA operates in multiple countries across the African continent, focusing on various development issues, including land policy, economic transition, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The position of Part-time Communications Consultant Expert is designed to enhance the capacity to implement the African Union agenda on land through universities, particularly through the Network of Excellence on Land Policy in Africa (NELGA). The consultant will play a crucial role in managing communications outputs for NELGA, which involves promoting the work of NELGA nodes and partner universities. The consultant will work closely with the Chief of Communications at ECA and the Director of PLAAS, ensuring that communications strategies align with the objectives of NELGA. The role requires a proactive approach to creating and managing content across various platforms, including social media, websites, and media outlets, to raise awareness and support for inclusive and sustainable development in Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Briefing, creating, and designing briefs from the NELGA nodes to ensure clear communication of objectives and activities.
• Managing website content, including creating, collating, and updating information to keep stakeholders informed.
• Handling media management tasks, which involve writing and editing press releases and articles to promote NELGA initiatives.
• Creating engaging social media content and managing accounts to enhance visibility and engagement with target audiences.
• Producing video content that highlights NELGA's work and impact across the continent.
• Conducting photography to document events and activities related to NELGA.
• Managing communications about NELGA events, including creating relevant content to promote participation and awareness.
• Copy editing materials to ensure clarity and consistency in messaging.
• Commissioning and managing translations between English and French to cater to diverse audiences. 1
• Preparing an Annual report that summarizes the communications activities and achievements of NELGA.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include an advanced university degree (at least a Master's Degree or equivalent) in Communication, Journalism, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience in the fields of communication or journalism may be accepted in lieu of the master's degree. Candidates should possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and demonstrate the ability to create compelling content for various audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree, preferably a Master's Degree in Communication, Journalism, or a related field. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by relevant work experience, specifically in communications or journalism, which highlights the importance of both formal education and practical expertise in this role.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of experience in communications, journalism, or equivalent expertise. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in research, development, or NGO environments, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex communication landscapes and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this consultancy role, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an advantage, as it enhances the consultant's ability to communicate effectively with a broader audience and manage translations between the two languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and is expected to last for 12 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates.