Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), specifically within the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU). The OHCHR is a part of the United Nations and is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. The organization works to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld in various contexts, including conflict zones and areas of political instability. The OHCHR operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various human rights issues and providing support to governments and civil society organizations. The mission in Ukraine is particularly focused on monitoring the human rights situation in the country, especially in light of ongoing conflicts and political challenges. The OHCHR aims to increase awareness and visibility of human rights issues and to advocate for the protection of individuals' rights.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the communication strategy of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU). This position involves a variety of responsibilities aimed at promoting human rights and enhancing the visibility of the mission's work. The incumbent will be responsible for producing and overseeing the creation of various communication materials, including social media content, press releases, and informational leaflets. They will also maintain and update the mission's official websites and social media platforms to ensure that the information is current and accessible. Additionally, the Associate Communications Officer will contribute to organizing public events, both online and offline, such as the launch of public reports and observances like Human Rights Day. Collaboration with other UN communication officers is essential, as the incumbent will participate in joint digital communication campaigns that highlight human rights issues. The role requires monitoring and analyzing current events and public opinion in Ukraine, advising management on relevant trends and issues, and providing guidance to other communication team members. Overall, this position is integral to the mission's efforts to promote human rights and engage with the public and media effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Communications Officer include:

• Supporting the design and implementation of the communication strategy for the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU).
• Producing and overseeing the creation of communication and reporting materials, including social media content, press releases, infographics, and other promotional materials.
• Maintaining and updating the mission's official websites and social media accounts to ensure accurate and timely information dissemination.
• Organizing public events, both online and offline, to promote human rights awareness and the mission's work.
• Collaborating with other UN communication officers to develop and participate in joint digital communication campaigns.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with media representatives, responding to inquiries, and arranging interviews.
• Monitoring and analyzing current events and public opinion, identifying trends, and advising management on appropriate responses.
• Providing guidance to other members of the communication team and performing other communication-related functions as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong understanding of strategic communications principles and practices, particularly in fragile and post-conflict environments. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to develop and implement effective communication strategies and tailor messages for diverse audiences. Knowledge of current digital media platforms and the ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making are essential. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Additionally, a commitment to incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, media relations, public information, marketing, or other relevant social sciences or humanities fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in the aforementioned areas combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, public information, or related fields is required. Candidates should have experience in developing talking points, press releases, and media lines, particularly in crisis situations and on sensitive issues. Experience in public relations and managing media contacts, as well as networking with non-governmental organizations and government officials, is also necessary. Familiarity with human rights messaging is desirable, and experience within the United Nations or similar international organizations is a plus.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum UN Level III proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in Ukrainian and Russian is required, also at UN Level III for all language skills.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. Candidates for the National Professional Officer category must be nationals of Ukraine. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.