Assistant External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of international protection and humanitarian assistance, and it aims to safeguard the rights of refugees and displaced persons while providing them with the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives.

Job Overview:
The Assistant External Relations Officer plays a crucial role in supporting UNHCR Armenia's external engagement and communication efforts. This position is responsible for fostering relationships with government counterparts, media, donors, UN agencies, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote UNHCR's protection agenda. The incumbent will work closely under the supervision of the External Relations Officer, providing guidance on external relations, resource mobilization, communication, and visibility strategies. The role involves assisting in the planning and organization of communication strategies that generate support for UNHCR's operations, as well as managing information flows within the country operations. The Assistant External Relations Officer will also be involved in drafting various communication materials, organizing events, and supporting media relations to enhance public understanding of UNHCR's activities and accomplishments. This position is integral to ensuring that UNHCR is perceived as a reliable and trusted partner in advancing the protection of refugees and displaced persons in Armenia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Assistant External Relations Officer include: assisting management in addressing challenges related to political contexts and humanitarian reforms; planning and organizing communication strategies to garner support for UNHCR's operations; facilitating dialogue with donors and embassies; disseminating information on UNHCR's funding situation; participating in inter-agency cooperation initiatives; managing information flows within country operations; drafting situation reports, briefing notes, and press releases; organizing advertisements, exhibitions, and training seminars; supporting media relations by drafting responses to queries and organizing briefings; producing reports for donor agencies; identifying and managing risks; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Assistant External Relations Officer position include a strong understanding of local institutions, politics, and culture. Candidates should possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English and Armenian. Familiarity with UNHCR's learning programs or specific training relevant to the position is desirable. Essential functional skills include computer literacy, web content management, and drafting and documentation. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Assistant External Relations Officer position should have an undergraduate degree in fields such as Political Sciences, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, Communication, or other relevant areas. A graduate degree or doctorate is preferred but not mandatory. Educational qualifications marked with an asterisk are essential for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate may apply with no prior experience. Experience in communications, public relations, or related fields is highly valued, particularly in contexts involving donor relations and fundraising.

Languages:
Knowledge of English and the UN working language of the duty station (Armenian) is mandatory. Candidates should have at least a B2 level proficiency in both languages. Familiarity with additional languages is considered a plus, but not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, and candidates must be nationals of or legally present in Armenia at the time of application. UNHCR will not sponsor or facilitate residency and work permits. The position is full-time, with a target start date of March 1, 202

• The living conditions in Yerevan are generally safe, although there may be occasional public unrest due to political situations. The climate is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. Health facilities are adequate, and there is no need for complicated vaccinations. UNHCR has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates will undergo mandatory clearance checks prior to receiving an offer. All applications will be treated confidentially, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.