Senior Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which was established to oversee the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon. UNIFIL's mission is to ensure peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the region, and it operates with a commitment to uphold human rights and promote stability. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various international and local partners to achieve its objectives. UNIFIL is dedicated to fostering dialogue and cooperation among different stakeholders in Lebanon and the surrounding areas, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining peace in a historically volatile region.

Job Overview:
The Senior Public Information Officer is a pivotal role within UNIFIL, responsible for leading the public information strategy and ensuring effective communication both internally and externally. This position requires a strategic thinker who can conceptualize and execute comprehensive public information programs that resonate with various stakeholders, including local communities, international media, and governmental entities. The officer will serve as the chief spokesperson for UNIFIL, providing critical insights and advice on complex communication issues. The role demands a proactive approach to crisis communication, utilizing data-driven methodologies to assess the impact of messaging and adjust strategies accordingly. The officer will also oversee the mission's social media presence and digital campaigns, ensuring that outreach efforts are innovative and engaging. Additionally, the Senior Public Information Officer will coordinate with mission leadership to align communication efforts with the overall objectives of UNIFIL, ensuring that all public information outputs meet high-quality standards and adhere to UN policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Public Information Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conceptualizing and designing the public information strategy; serving as the chief spokesperson for UNIFIL; providing technical and policy advice on public information issues; developing and implementing crisis communication activities; overseeing the mission's social media presence; formulating and updating the work program for the Strategic Communications section; advising mission leadership on strategic communication matters; ensuring timely communications across media platforms; developing media monitoring systems; overseeing public information outputs; maintaining liaison with the Lebanese Armed Forces; managing international military information officers; conducting press briefings and interviews; interacting with local and international media; consulting with UN Headquarters; managing and training staff; and performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public information and communication, with the ability to navigate complex political landscapes and public attitudes. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of developing and implementing effective communication strategies, managing public information campaigns, and producing high-quality written communications. The role requires a professional who is committed to excellence, demonstrates resilience in challenging situations, and possesses the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Strong judgment and decision-making skills are essential, as well as the ability to lead and inspire others.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in the principles of communication and public relations, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in public information, external communications, journalism, international relations, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience overseeing strategic coordination" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">communication coordination mechanisms and a strong background in media communications and outreach, particularly in the Middle East region. Experience working closely with both civilian and uniformed personnel is desirable, as is experience in inter-State conflict environments and field operations, including peacekeeping missions and international organizations. Additionally, experience managing multidisciplinary teams is essential for this role.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, and candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific skill level requirements. Knowledge of French is advantageous and may enhance communication capabilities within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve working in a dynamic and sometimes challenging environment. The Senior Public Information Officer will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, and may require travel within the region. The role is critical for maintaining the UN's visibility and credibility in Lebanon, and the successful candidate will play a key role in shaping public perception and fostering positive relationships with the media and the community.