Communication Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working with governments and partners to improve reproductive health and promote gender equality. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to delivering high-impact results in their work.

Job Overview:
The Communication Specialist will play a crucial role in implementing UNFPA's Communications Plan in Ukraine, working closely with country office staff, implementing partners, and other agencies. This position is essential for ensuring operational excellence in communications, which is vital for the success of UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-202

• The Specialist will be responsible for managing and coordinating communication activities, providing research and analysis, and prioritizing tasks effectively. The role requires a proactive approach to content creation and media outreach, ensuring that UNFPA's messages are effectively communicated to various stakeholders. The Specialist will also support capacity building within the organization, enhancing the communication skills of UNFPA staff and ensuring that all communication activities meet high standards of quality and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication Specialist will manage and coordinate the Office’s communication activities, which includes leading the development of communication plans to guide UNFPA's communication efforts. Responsibilities include providing public information support to the Country Office, preparing written materials such as articles, talking points, and press releases, and drafting regular UNFPA snapshots and SitReps. The Specialist will represent UNFPA in key communications meetings, engage with media sources, and establish relationships with the UN Country Team and communication officers to identify synergies. Additionally, the role involves strengthening the capacity of UNFPA staff in communication aspects, providing guidance to ensure activities meet desired standards, and supervising national communication staff. Content creation is also a key responsibility, requiring the Specialist to provide timely and field-driven content for various platforms and proactively pitch stories to the press.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications, Political Science, Advertising, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in communications or journalism is required, along with at least 3 years of field experience in humanitarian and emergency settings. Familiarity with the UN common system is desirable, as is a strong understanding of communication strategies and practices.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is required, specifically in fields related to communication, journalism, or international relations. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of communication in a humanitarian context and for effectively conveying UNFPA's messages to diverse audiences.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of professional experience in communications or journalism, with a strong emphasis on field experience in humanitarian and emergency settings. This experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges and dynamics of communication in crisis situations, as well as for developing effective strategies to engage with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge of other languages, particularly Ukrainian or Russian, being highly desirable. Proficiency in these languages will enhance the Specialist's ability to communicate effectively with local partners and stakeholders, ensuring that UNFPA's messages resonate within the community.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.