Communication Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization works to improve the health and well-being of women and girls, prevent gender-based violence, and support comprehensive sexuality education. UNFPA's mission is critical in addressing global challenges related to population dynamics, reproductive health, and gender equality, impacting over 80% of the world’s population.

Job Overview:
The Communication Officer will play a vital role in supporting the UNFPA Sudan Country Office by implementing the communication strategy and ensuring donor visibility. This position is crucial for amplifying the voices of women and girls through compelling media products and human-interest stories. The officer will work under the direct supervision of the Communication Specialist, focusing on consistent branding and effective coordination with implementing partners. The role involves administrative and logistical support to program teams, tracking program implementation activities, and ensuring timely follow-up on deliverables and reports. The Communication Officer will also assist in maintaining organized files for program activities and partner agreements, ensuring compliance with audit requirements, and facilitating smooth coordination between program staff and operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication Officer's duties include providing day-to-day administrative and logistical support to program teams, assisting in travel arrangements, event coordination, and procurement requests. The officer will track program implementation activities, prepare requisitions, maintain financial records, and assist with HR-related actions. Responsibilities also include liaising with implementing partners for administrative needs, collecting and consolidating data for program reports, supporting asset tracking, and acting as a point of contact between program staff and operations. The officer will examine and process payroll entitlements, support hiring and onboarding of consultants, monitor charges for common services, develop tools for budget monitoring, facilitate payroll-related tasks, conduct spot checks and field monitoring visits, assist in audit preparation, supervise administrative staff, and perform any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate integrity and commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, embrace cultural diversity, and adapt to change. Core competencies include achieving results, accountability, developing professional expertise, analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. Functional competencies involve managing financial resources, providing procurement services, and ensuring facilities and assets management. The ideal candidate should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in communication strategies, media relations, or project management may be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles of communication and public engagement, particularly in the context of international development and humanitarian assistance.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant experience in communication, public relations, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or UN agencies is highly desirable. Familiarity with the issues surrounding sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and youth policies will be beneficial. Proven experience in producing media content, managing communication campaigns, and engaging with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local partners and stakeholders. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment, meaning the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. National UN Volunteers are entitled to a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of 1,597.25 USD, a Danger and Hardship Differential (DHD) of 575 USD, annual and learning leaves, free medical and life insurance, and access to various learning platforms. The role may involve working in challenging environments, and the volunteer must be prepared for the associated risks.