Chief of Communications

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. 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, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities across the globe.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Communications at UNICEF Türkiye will lead the external communication, advocacy, and public engagement portfolio. This role involves developing and implementing a comprehensive communication and advocacy strategy that positions UNICEF as a trusted voice for children and young people in Türkiye. The Chief will manage media relations, build strategic partnerships, lead creative campaigns, and oversee a dynamic team to deliver impactful communication initiatives that align with UNICEF’s global priorities. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure that UNICEF’s messaging resonates with various stakeholders and effectively promotes the rights of children.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of the country communication and advocacy strategy, ensuring alignment with UNICEF’s mission and priorities.
• Oversee media engagement and maintain strong relationships with national and international journalists, influencers, and media platforms.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with government counterparts, civil society, the private sector, and the UN Country Team.
• Coordinate campaigns and special events, including the adaptation and rollout of global advocacy initiatives.
• Provide strategic communication guidance to senior management and programme teams.
• Manage the communications team, including planning, budgeting, performance management, and professional development.
• Ensure the quality, accuracy, and consistency of UNICEF Türkiye’s public messaging and brand representation.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. Alternatively, an undergraduate degree plus at least 12 years of demonstrated professional experience in journalism, communications, external relations, public affairs, public relations, or corporate communications.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in communication, media relations, public affairs, or advocacy, including print, broadcast, and/or new media.
• A minimum of five years of experience in leading communication strategies for private sector companies or foundations.
• Fluency in English and Turkish (both oral and written) is required.
• Knowledge of current communication trends, media environments, and public engagement in Türkiye.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. Alternatively, an undergraduate degree combined with substantial professional experience in relevant fields is acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of communication and advocacy in a global context, particularly in relation to children's rights and welfare.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in communication, media relations, public affairs, or advocacy. Candidates should have a proven track record in leading communication strategies, particularly within private sector companies or foundations, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex communication landscapes effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Turkish is mandatory, both in oral and written forms. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse context of Türkiye. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with a broader audience.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UNICEF offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. Background checks will be conducted, and selected candidates must adhere to UNICEF's standards and principles, including medical clearance and vaccination requirements. UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process.