Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, valuing the multiplicity of nations and cultures in which it operates. UNDP aims to empower all personnel to contribute to its mission and encourages applications from marginalized or excluded populations.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the UN SDG Action Campaign, which was established by the UN Secretary-General to inspire global action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This position involves developing and implementing comprehensive communications and advocacy strategies that align with the Campaign's priorities. The Specialist will be responsible for managing editorial content, social media engagement, and overall campaign communications to ensure consistent messaging and visibility. The role requires a proactive approach to fostering engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders, including activists, organizations, and decision-makers, to drive awareness and support for the SDGs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Specialist will lead the Campaign’s communications and advocacy strategies, developing workplans that include digital strategies to raise awareness and drive engagement. They will manage editorial planning, create compelling narratives, and monitor communications activities to capture lessons learned. The Specialist will produce high-quality editorial content, oversee multimedia content development, and identify media opportunities for outreach. They will also manage the Campaign’s social media presence, ensuring consistency in messaging and branding, and supervise consultants and external vendors. Additionally, the Specialist will facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building, ensuring project reports capture results and good practices, and promote advocacy opportunities in collaboration with project partners and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in developing and implementing communications and advocacy strategies within the UN system, or 9 years with a bachelor’s degree. Proven excellent drafting skills for various communication formats, experience in managing media relations, and coordinating communications for high-level international events are essential. Familiarity with digital platforms and social media management is also required. Desired skills include experience in digital community building and knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals and current international debates related to them.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Communications, Media Studies, Journalism, International Relations, Development, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the stated areas, combined with an additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience with a master’s degree or 9 years with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have a strong background in developing and implementing communications and advocacy strategies, particularly in the context of the UN system, and experience in managing media relations and facilitating media engagement for UN teams.

Languages:
Fluency in written and verbal communication skills in English is required. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The Communications Specialist will report to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director and is expected to work at the UN Bonn Office in Germany. The position emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds. UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel can thrive.