Communication Specialist (Media)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is dedicated to promoting the rights of every child and is committed to providing diverse opportunities for professional and personal development for its staff. UNICEF operates in a passionate culture and offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, reinforcing a sense of purpose while serving children and communities across the globe.

Job Overview:
As a Communication Specialist (Media) at UNICEF, you will play a crucial role in supporting and implementing a regional media strategy that aligns with UNICEF's advocacy priorities. Your primary focus will be on building and maintaining strong relationships with regional and international media outlets, particularly in South Asia, to enhance the visibility and impact of UNICEF's work. You will be responsible for pitching compelling stories and data to top-tier media outlets, providing media support during emergencies to ensure that UNICEF's voice is heard within 72 hours, and training and supporting UNICEF spokespeople and Country Offices. Additionally, you will contribute to global campaigns and donor visibility efforts, making a significant difference in the lives of children and communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Communication Specialist (Media) include:

• Supporting the development and implementation of a regional media strategy that aligns with UNICEF's advocacy priorities.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with regional and international media to enhance UNICEF's visibility.
• Pitching compelling stories and data to top-tier media outlets to secure coverage.
• Providing timely media support during emergencies, ensuring that UNICEF's voice is effectively communicated within 72 hours.
• Training and supporting UNICEF spokespeople and Country Offices in media engagement.
• Contributing to global campaigns and donor visibility efforts to promote UNICEF's mission and work.
• Monitoring media coverage and analyzing the impact of media strategies on public perception and advocacy efforts.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in Communication, Journalism, or Public Relations. A first university degree with two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree in the relevant fields.
• At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in communication, media relations, or journalism.
• Field experience and familiarity with emergency contexts are required.
• Proven track record of securing top-tier media coverage.
• Strong writing and crisis communication skills.
• Familiarity with South Asia and its media landscape.
• Previous experience with UNICEF or the UN is an asset.
• Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergencies is required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree in Communication, Journalism, or Public Relations. Alternatively, a first university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The educational background should be focused on fields related to journalism, communications, external relations, public affairs, public relations, or corporate communications.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in communication, media relations, or journalism. Candidates should have field experience and familiarity with emergency contexts, which is essential for effectively managing media relations during crises. Experience in securing media coverage across various platforms, including print, broadcast, and digital media, is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of another UN language or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse media outlets and audiences effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working in emergency contexts, requiring flexibility and adaptability. UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and from people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and visa requirements. UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment process.