Associate Communications Officer

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

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to promote durable solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer position at UNHCR is designed for a resilient and politically astute professional who will play a crucial role in implementing communications strategies that align with UNHCR's global objectives. The officer will be responsible for developing and executing a range of activities that lead the narrative on forced displacement, generate empathy, and mobilize action. This role requires a deep understanding of target audiences and the ability to communicate effectively across various platforms. The officer will work closely with media, public audiences, and policymakers to ensure that UNHCR's messaging resonates and engages effectively. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for communication and advocacy, particularly in complex humanitarian settings, and requires the ability to adapt strategies to rapidly changing circumstances.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Communications Officer include supporting the implementation of communications strategies for various countries and special projects, identifying thematic priorities, and target audiences to meet UNHCR's global communications objectives. The officer will monitor news and trends to insert UNHCR's messaging into ongoing conversations and forge strategic partnerships with individuals and organizations to promote UNHCR content. They will contribute to the development of authoritative content, including interviews, press releases, and multimedia storytelling, to generate empathy and mobilize action. The officer will also ensure that communications projects are monitored and adjusted as necessary, benchmark results against success indicators, and maintain media relations to ensure coverage of refugee situations. Additional responsibilities include acting as a spokesperson for UNHCR, organizing press events, and engaging with journalists and public audiences via social media channels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Economics, Communications, or a related field. A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in donor relations, external relations, or partnerships in humanitarian settings is required. Prior experience with UNHCR or another UN organization is highly desirable. The candidate should demonstrate strong diplomatic skills, the ability to manage sensitive relationships, and a solid understanding of displacement dynamics in long-term refugee-hosting contexts. Furthermore, candidates should have proven experience in emergency response and the ability to adapt strategies to fast-evolving emergencies.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Economics, Communications, or a related discipline. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields may also be considered if they have additional years of experience. The educational qualifications should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and effective communication strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in donor relations, external relations, or partnerships within humanitarian settings. Candidates should have at least 1 year of professional experience in journalism and/or communications, particularly at the international level. Experience working in high-risk or fragile contexts, especially in the Sahel region or similar areas, is essential. Familiarity with UNHCR's operations and objectives will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French (both written and spoken) is essential for this position. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse audiences and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS IICA1 and is not remote. The target start date for the position is January 1, 2026, and the application deadline is February 2, 202

• The role is categorized as a non-family position with residential location requirements. Candidates should be prepared to work under challenging conditions, including extreme weather and heightened security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security constraints, and must demonstrate strong stress management skills and the ability to perform under pressure.