Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to become a pivotal organization in the global environmental landscape, with a mission to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. Its work is guided by the principles of ambition, innovation, credible science, and alignment with global climate goals and the needs of individual countries. UNEP's Climate Change Division is particularly focused on delivering effective strategic guidance and high-impact action in support of the transition towards climate stability, emphasizing the importance of climate action as one of its three strategic objectives under the Medium-Term Strategy (MTS) 2026-2029.

Job Overview:
The Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist will play a crucial role in amplifying the impact of UNEP's adaptation portfolio both globally and nationally through effective knowledge dissemination. This position is home-based and is expected to last for 12 months. The specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing the Unit’s annual knowledge management plans, ensuring alignment with the broader communications priorities of UNEP. The role involves researching, drafting, and publishing the bimonthly Global Adaptation Network (GAN) Newsletter, as well as assisting regional networks with their communications and outreach efforts. The specialist will also develop a communications strategy for the Global Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Fund, distilling lessons learned from adaptation projects into publications, and managing a lessons learned database. The position requires a proactive approach to analyzing and synthesizing key topics emerging from the Unit's work, producing high-quality knowledge products, and coordinating with relevant units to enhance the visibility and impact of UNEP's climate adaptation initiatives. Additionally, the specialist will support the organization of side events at major conferences and collaborate with communications leads to engage effectively with media and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist include:

• Developing and implementing the Unit’s annual knowledge management plans that cover all of the Unit's Funds and facilities, ensuring alignment with other knowledge management and communications priorities.
• Researching, drafting, and publishing the bimonthly Global Adaptation Network (GAN) Newsletter, and assisting GAN’s Regional Network with communications and outreach for major events like the APAN Forum.
• Creating and executing a communications strategy and action plan for the Global EbA Fund, which includes defining key messages, identifying target audiences, and selecting appropriate communications channels.
• Distilling lessons learned from UNEP’s adaptation projects into various publications, including brochures, and managing a lessons learned database to capture key insights.
• Analyzing and synthesizing emerging topics in the Unit's work to produce relevant knowledge products that meet the Unit's objectives.
• Coordinating with relevant units to produce a variety of knowledge products, including press releases, articles, blogs, social media posts, webinars, and in-person events.
• Providing support throughout all stages of the UNEP publication process, including concept development, author briefings, proofreading, editing, coordinating reviews, and distributing final publications.
• Organizing and conducting field missions to produce stories, photographs, and videos of project activities and beneficiaries.
• Supporting the organization of side events at COPs and other regional and global events. 1
• Collaborating with the Branch’s communications lead and UNEP-GEF-GCF climate communications officer to support communications and media engagement activities related to the Unit’s funds and facilities. 1
• Acting as UNEP’s web focal point for adaptation and the Climate Change Division’s WeCollaborate webpage. 1
• Actively monitoring and reporting on the success of knowledge management efforts in reaching target audiences and enhancing the Unit's relevance as a source of insight and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's Degree in communications, journalism, media relations, environmental science, climate change, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must have at least 5 years of experience working in communications, journalism, media, and organizing international knowledge events. Proven ability to produce high-quality communications materials, including written, photo, and video products, is essential. Experience in climate change topics, particularly climate adaptation and resilience, is required. Additionally, candidates should have experience developing and implementing communication plans and strategies for international organizations, and experience working with a United Nations agency is desired, including knowledge of UN communication policies and protocols. Experience in managing and maintaining websites and web content is also preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in communications, journalism, media relations, environmental science, climate change, or other related fields. A first-level university degree, combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience in the required field, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate communication and the necessary skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in communications, journalism, media, and the organization of international knowledge events. This level of experience is essential to ensure that the candidate can effectively manage the various responsibilities associated with the role, including producing high-quality communications materials and developing strategic communication plans. Experience in climate change topics, particularly in climate adaptation and resilience, is also necessary to align the communications efforts with UNEP's objectives and the needs of the global community.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required for this position. Additionally, a fluent knowledge of French and/or Spanish is desirable, as it will enhance the candidate's ability to communicate with a broader audience and engage with stakeholders from different linguistic backgrounds. Proficiency in multiple languages is a valuable asset in the context of international organizations like UNEP, where diverse communication is essential.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for 12 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. The organization emphasizes that it does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.