Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Trade Logistics Branch of the Division on Technology and Logistics at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries, employing thousands of staff members worldwide. Its mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth and development through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Officer will play a crucial role in implementing e-learning programs related to trade facilitation and supply chains. This position requires the officer to draft information strategies, coordinate efforts, monitor progress, and analyze outcomes. The officer will also be responsible for promoting online coverage of major events through various media strategies, including video creation and social media outreach. The role involves conceptualizing and developing design proposals, producing communication products, and preparing drafts for UN publications. The officer will act as a focal point for the UNCTAD trade facilitation e-learning platform and will be expected to maintain professional relationships with key stakeholders while providing guidance to junior staff members.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Information Officer will ensure the effective implementation of e-learning programs by drafting information strategies and coordinating efforts. Responsibilities include monitoring and analyzing current events and trends in trade facilitation and supply chains, advising management on appropriate actions, and promoting online coverage of priority issues through various media. The officer will conceptualize design proposals, produce communication products, prepare drafts for UN publications, and maintain professional relationships with key constituencies. Additionally, the officer will oversee the UNCTAD trade facilitation e-learning platform, respond to inquiries, and provide guidance to junior staff members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a comprehensive knowledge of communications and e-learning methodologies essential for planning and executing effective campaigns. They should have the ability to analyze diverse information, produce visual communication products, and deliver presentations effectively. The officer must demonstrate professionalism, communication skills, and technological awareness, including proficiency in video editing and graphic design. A commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work is also required.

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 combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, or public administration is required, specifically in the field of trade facilitation and supply chains. Candidates must have experience in producing content for e-Learning Management Systems, as well as in video editing, photography, and graphic design. Experience in building communication capacities in developing countries and creating digital campaigns related to trade and development is desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Russian, or Spanish is desirable. The UN Language Framework specifies the required proficiency levels for each language skill.

Additional Notes:
This is a project-funded position with an initial duration until May 31, 2026, starting as soon as possible. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment after the temporary assignment. The position may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations, and candidates must adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity as outlined in the UN's regulations.