Communications Contractor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Centre in Panama City (UNIC Panama City) is part of the global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs). Established to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations, UNIC Panama City serves as the principal source of information about the UN system in Panama. The organization is dedicated to engaging local and regional partners and disseminating UN information materials to a local audience in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and local dialects. Since the operationalization of the United Nations development system reform on January 1, 2019, UNIC Panama City has been integrated with the Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Panama, enhancing its role in raising awareness of the UN's work in the country, particularly in relation to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026-2031.

Job Overview:
The Communications Contractor position is located within the Information Centres Service (ICS) of the Campaigns and Country Operations Division (CCOD) of the Department of Global Communications (DGC). The role is crucial for designing and implementing a comprehensive UN communications strategy that aligns with global and country strategic communications goals. This includes developing a workplan, creating public information content for various platforms, and engaging local audiences on UN priorities. The contractor will be responsible for producing digital content assets, monitoring misinformation trends, and providing communication support to the Resident Coordinator and the UN Communications Group. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure timely and engaging content that adheres to UN branding and messaging guidelines, thereby enhancing the visibility and understanding of the UN's work in Panama.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Communications Contractor include:

• Developing an agreed UN Panama Communications Strategy and workplan that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework of Panama 2026-203
• Monitoring mis/disinformation trends in the country and developing a UN joint response protocol based on crisis communications guidance.
• Supporting the drafting of the UNSDCF annual report in collaboration with the RCO Data and Monitoring Officer.
• Creating at least 10 digital content assets per month, including infographics, visuals for UN events, and graphic/audiovisual materials for digital platforms.
• Providing coverage for at least 4 high-level events and meetings per month, producing news articles and products for various media outlets.
• Maintaining UN communications channels with timely and accurate content.
• Coordinating communication support for the RC/RCO and other related tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first-level university degree in communications, journalism, international relations, or a related field. Additionally, candidates must have five years of experience in communication, particularly in writing for web and social media or mass media. Proven experience in developing digital content and graphic design is essential, including proficiency in tools like Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, and CapCut. Candidates should also have experience capturing and editing high-quality photographs during events, ensuring alignment with communication goals. Fluency in Microsoft Office programs is required, and previous experience with UN agencies or similar international organizations is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in communications, journalism, international relations, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively communicate and engage with various audiences.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in communication. This experience should include writing for web and social media, as well as mass media. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in developing digital content and graphic design, showcasing their ability to create engaging multimedia materials for diverse platforms.

Languages:
For this position, excellent skills in Spanish writing and speaking are required, along with proficiency in English. While English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, the ability to communicate effectively in Spanish is crucial for engaging with local audiences and stakeholders in Panama.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of 3 months and is based in-person in Panama City. There are no additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation provided in the job ad. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.