Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 202

• The organization focuses on addressing the issue of missing persons in Syria, aiming to provide support and assistance to families of the missing and to promote accountability and justice. The IIMP operates in various locations relevant to its mission, and while the current duty station is in Geneva, Switzerland, it may be subject to change, potentially relocating to Damascus, Syria, or other operational sites. The organization is committed to upholding the principles of human rights and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, and it works collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve its objectives. The IIMP is a relatively new entity, and its establishment reflects the international community's recognition of the need to address the humanitarian crisis in Syria, particularly concerning the plight of missing persons. The organization is composed of a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about their mission and work in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the media relations of the Independent Institution. This position involves organizing media interviews, preparing talking points, and devising comprehensive communications plans for high-level missions. The officer is responsible for leading the strategy, planning, development, and implementation of the social media strategy, evaluating the results and impact of social media activities, and reporting on developments, trends, and attitudes regarding the Independent Institution. The officer ensures the implementation of information programs to publicize priority issues and major events, which includes drafting information strategies, coordinating efforts, monitoring progress, and analyzing outcomes. Additionally, the officer monitors and analyzes current events, public opinion, and press coverage, advising management on appropriate actions and responses. The role also entails promoting media coverage through various activities such as press conferences and interviews, developing media strategies, and conducting proactive media outreach efforts. The officer produces or oversees the production of various information communications products, prepares drafts for UN newsletters and reports, and maintains professional relationships with key constituencies. The position may also involve supervising junior staff and collecting and analyzing data to provide insights for decision-making and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Information Officer is responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting media relations by organizing media interviews and preparing talking points; leading the development and implementation of social media strategies; ensuring the execution of information programs to publicize priority issues; monitoring and analyzing current events and public opinion; promoting media coverage through press conferences and interviews; producing various communication products such as press releases and articles; initiating and sustaining professional relationships with key constituencies; acting as a focal point on specific issues; providing guidance and supervision to junior staff; and collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for planning and reporting. The officer must also demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and technological awareness in executing these responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public information, journalism, international relations, or public administration. The role requires knowledge of communications approaches, tools, and methodologies essential for planning and executing effective campaign strategies. Candidates should have the ability to analyze and integrate diverse information, identify public affairs issues, and handle sensitive situations diplomatically. Strong writing and oral presentation skills are essential, as is the ability to produce a variety of written communications products in a clear and concise style. The officer must also be committed to incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of public information and communication in an international context.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, public administration, or a related area is required. Candidates must have experience managing social media accounts for a large global organization, as well as experience in engaging with the media and writing on human rights or humanitarian crises. Experience with maintaining and editing website content is also desirable, as it contributes to the overall effectiveness of the communication strategy.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required. Candidates should consult the UN Language Framework for details on the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, ensuring they meet the necessary communication standards for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve a temporary contract, and candidates should be prepared for potential relocation to Damascus, Syria, or other relevant locations as determined by the organization. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be aware of the international nature of the recruitment process, which may involve working with diverse teams and stakeholders. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UN regulations and rules.