Communications and Advocacy Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Development Coordination Office (DCO) Regional Office for Africa was established in July 2019 to operationalize UNGA resolution 72/27

• It supports 53 Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams in helping Member States deliver on national priorities, the 2030 Agenda, SDGs, and African Union Agenda 206
• The office aims to enhance joint UN communication and advocacy, amplify policy messages, and ensure a unified UN voice for greater impact across the region.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Advocacy Officer is responsible for leading regional campaigns and partnerships that advance DCO strategic corporate priorities. This includes developing and implementing integrated communications and advocacy strategies that align with UN policies and guidance. The role involves planning, organizing, and coordinating campaigns and advocacy activities in complex environments, producing creative content to mobilize external stakeholders, and advancing the SDGs. The Officer must build and sustain strong partnerships with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, government officials, civil society, and media, to ensure consistent messaging and effective outreach. Additionally, the Officer contributes to information integrity by monitoring threats and supporting crisis communications, while also providing training to equip stakeholders with effective communication tools.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Officer's responsibilities include developing and implementing communications strategies, drafting narratives and messaging, serving as a focal point for policy and reporting, and participating in campaign strategy development. They will coordinate with internal teams to identify partnership opportunities, support creative campaign development, promote campaigns through media engagement, and monitor campaign performance. The Officer will also build relationships with partners, coordinate joint initiatives, and contribute to the development of communication strategies that promote information integrity. They will analyze media narratives, contribute to crisis communications, and participate in the development of policy and training materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate critical thinking skills, knowledge of strategic communications principles, and understanding of risks to information integrity. They should possess project management skills, knowledge of digital media platforms, and crisis communications expertise. The ability to communicate effectively and tailor messages for diverse audiences is essential. Candidates should also have experience in media monitoring and digital design, as well as the ability to develop and implement communications partnership strategies.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, or relevant areas is required. Candidates should have the ability to develop and implement communications strategies, create engaging content, and communicate complex matters to diverse audiences. Knowledge of crisis communications and risks to information integrity is also necessary.

Languages:
English is required, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, also at UN Level II proficiency. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 August 202

• The selection process will be administered as a temporary assignment for current UN staff. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The position may involve working with diverse teams and requires adherence to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.