Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Joint SDG Fund is a collaborative initiative that supports countries in accelerating their progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It operates through joint programmes that provide transformative solutions implemented by governments and national stakeholders, with support from the UN Country Team led by Resident Coordinators. The Fund is strategically directed by a group chaired by the Deputy Secretary-General and managed by an Operational Steering Committee comprising representatives from various UN entities. The UN Development Coordination Office (DCO) hosts the Fund, ensuring alignment with broader UN Development System reforms. The Fund aims to incentivize coherent UN action and galvanize Country Teams around integrated policies to overcome political and financial hurdles in achieving the SDGs. The Secretariat team works across various units and functions to enhance collaboration and achieve strategic goals.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist will manage the digital communications, media relationships, and vendor coordination for the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat. This role involves operating across three main pillars: Digital Communications, Visual Identity, and Graphic Design. The Specialist will be responsible for maintaining the Fund's presence in public dialogue, developing relationships with key partners, and coordinating the production of engaging content across various platforms. The position requires proficiency in digital communications and graphic design, with a focus on creating high-quality communications products that align with the Fund's branding and visibility objectives. The Specialist will also lead the production of multimedia content and ensure compliance with communication strategies, while contributing to knowledge management and dissemination efforts within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Digital Communications: Manage the Fund's digital presence, coordinate daily content production, and develop relationships with partners to enhance visibility.
• Visual Identity: Lead the production of communications products for various media, collaborate with UN entities, and identify new communication opportunities.
• Graphic Design: Develop multimedia content, conceptualize visual identities for campaigns, and manage design projects from inception to completion.
• Knowledge Management: Organize training and provide consultancy on knowledge management, ensuring all products are captured and readily available.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree in Social Science, Communications, Journalism, or related field, or a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience in communications at an international level, or 7 years with a bachelor's degree.
• Experience in designing communication strategies, public advocacy campaigns, and managing teams.
• Proficiency in computer applications and web-based management systems.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Social Science, Communications, Journalism, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in communications, preferably at an international level. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have at least 7 years of experience. Experience in designing communication strategies, managing teams, and engaging with civil society is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Working knowledge of other UN languages is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in New York, USA, and is part of the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat hosted within the Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. There is no fee charged at any stage of the recruitment process.