Senior Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was established in 1978 with the mission to confirm Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, restore international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and assist the Lebanese government in restoring its authority in the area. UNIFIL operates in South Lebanon and has a diverse workforce comprising personnel from various countries, working collaboratively to achieve peace and stability in the region. The organization is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations, including respect for human rights and the promotion of gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Senior Public Information Officer plays a crucial role in shaping the public perception of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) through strategic communication and public information initiatives. This position requires a deep understanding of the political landscape and public attitudes in Lebanon, as well as the ability to craft effective messaging that resonates with various stakeholders. The officer will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive public information strategy, ensuring that all communications align with UNIFIL's objectives and adhere to the highest standards of quality. The role involves significant interaction with media outlets, both local and international, and requires the ability to respond to complex communication challenges with professionalism and tact. The officer will also oversee the mission's social media presence and digital outreach efforts, utilizing data-driven approaches to enhance engagement and outreach.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Public Information Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: conceptualizing and executing the public information strategy for UNIFIL; serving as the lead spokesperson and chief of strategic communications; providing technical and policy advice on public information issues; developing and implementing crisis communication activities; overseeing the mission's social media and digital media campaigns; coordinating with various mission components and UN agencies; advising mission leadership on strategic communication matters; ensuring high-quality standards for public information outputs; maintaining liaison with the Lebanese Armed Forces; managing and training staff; and conducting press briefings and interviews with media representatives. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring media coverage and producing bulletins to inform mission leadership of public sentiment and media trends.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public information and communications, with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields such as journalism, international relations, or public administration. The ideal candidate will have experience in overseeing strategic communication mechanisms, media communications, and outreach, particularly in the Middle East region. Familiarity with working in conflict environments and managing multidisciplinary teams is essential. The ability to navigate complex political situations and provide sound communication strategies is critical for success in this role.

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 candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage public information initiatives.

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 in overseeing strategic coordination" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">communication coordination mechanisms and media communications in the Middle East region. Experience working closely with both civilian and uniformed personnel, as well as in inter-State conflict environments, is desirable. Additionally, experience in field operations, including peacekeeping missions and international organizations, is preferred.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is available through 30 June 2027, with the possibility of extension subject to post availability. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of recruiting staff on a wide geographical basis and promotes gender balance in staffing. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. Candidates should be aware that they may be subject to reference checks and must provide complete and accurate information in their applications.