Communications Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. Established to promote human rights and gender equality, UNFPA works globally to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The organization operates in numerous countries, including Sierra Leone, where it aligns its Country Programme (2025–2030) with national development plans and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA's mission emphasizes effective communication to foster public understanding and community engagement, which is critical for the success of initiatives like the National Population and Housing Census.

Job Overview:
The Communications Consultant will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing a comprehensive communication and advocacy strategy for the UNFPA Country Programme and the National Census in Sierra Leone. This position requires a strategic thinker who can ensure nationwide awareness and public confidence in the census process. The consultant will be responsible for increasing the visibility of UNFPA’s mandate and results through various media channels, including social, print, and electronic media. The role involves close collaboration with government officials and stakeholders to promote effective communication that is inclusive and culturally appropriate, ensuring that all segments of the population are engaged and informed about the census and UNFPA’s initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key activities, including:

• Developing a comprehensive Census Communication and Advocacy Strategy that encompasses all phases of the census process.
• Leading the implementation of a Communication and Visibility Strategy for the Country Office, focusing on UNFPA’s strategic priorities.
• Identifying target audiences and defining key messages and communication channels.
• Creating clear and consistent census messages and supporting the development of branding and visibility materials.
• Establishing strong relationships with media outlets and organizing press events.
• Engaging with community influencers to promote participation in the census.
• Managing digital and social media content and monitoring misinformation.
• Documenting and reporting on the effectiveness of communication activities and preparing progress updates and final reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. They should have at least 5–7 years of relevant professional experience in strategic communication, advocacy, or public information, particularly for large-scale national programmes. Experience in supporting government-led communication initiatives or national surveys is highly desirable. Strong writing and editing skills in English are essential, and knowledge of Krio or other local languages is advantageous. Previous experience working with UN agencies, especially UNFPA, is a plus, as is the ability to work in a diverse and multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively communicate and advocate for UNFPA’s initiatives and the National Census.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5–7 years of relevant professional experience in strategic communication, advocacy, or public information. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in supporting government-led communication initiatives or national surveys/censuses. Proven experience working with media, civil society, and community structures in Sierra Leone is essential, as is the ability to navigate the complexities of communication in a diverse cultural context. Experience working with UN agencies, particularly UNFPA, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in Krio or other local Sierra Leone languages is considered a strong advantage, as it enhances the consultant's ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is for a full-term period of 6 months, with the consultant working under the direct supervision of the UNFPA Country Representative. The consultant will be compensated monthly based on the approval of deliverables and progress reports. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, and compensation.