Head of United Nations Information Centre (UNIC)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Tehran is part of the global network of UN Information Centres, established to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations. UNIC Tehran serves as the principal source of information about the UN system in Iran, engaging local audiences and partners to communicate the work of the UN effectively. The Centre has been integrated with the Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Iran since January 1, 2019, following the UN development system reform.

Job Overview:
The Head of UNIC Tehran is responsible for leading and supervising the work programme of the Centre, ensuring its effective functioning through programmatic and administrative tasks. This includes budget preparation, staff recruitment, and performance evaluation. The incumbent will conceptualize and execute communication strategies aligned with the Global Communications Strategy for the UN, develop multimedia campaigns, and manage digital content across various platforms. The role also involves providing substantive support to the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in localizing global communications priorities and promoting the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The Head may serve as the UN spokesperson in Iran, liaising with media and organizing press briefings. Additionally, the position requires managing internal and external communication platforms, ensuring high-quality outputs, and leading coordinated UN system communications in Iran.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will lead the work programme of UNIC Tehran, overseeing administrative tasks such as budget preparation and staff management. Responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic communications campaigns, managing digital and social media content, and fostering relationships with media and governmental agencies. The Head will provide support to the Resident Coordinator in adapting global communications strategies, manage crisis communications, and ensure compliance with UN standards. The role also involves supervising the creation of communication materials, conducting media monitoring, and representing the Centre at various meetings. The incumbent will ensure the effectiveness of communication strategies and report on programmatic issues to intergovernmental bodies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism in public information techniques, including strategic communications and crisis management. They should possess the ability to implement media campaigns and develop communication strategies tailored to diverse audiences. Strong decision-making skills, accountability, and leadership capabilities are essential. The incumbent should also be adept at fostering teamwork and communication among staff, ensuring gender perspectives are incorporated into all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in journalism, communication, public information, international relations, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, communications, journalism, or international relations is required, with at least three years at the international level. Candidates should have experience in developing strategic communications and crisis communications, as well as familiarity with the political, social, and economic context of Iran. Experience in resource administration, including budget preparation and human resources management, is also necessary, along with supervisory experience of a team within the UN system or a comparable organization.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Farsi or Persian is desirable, also at UN Level III for all skills. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, tailoring their communication style to suit different audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily for a duration of six months with a possibility of extension. It may be limited to internal candidates and is subject to the funding source of the position. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The position requires adherence to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and candidates with a history of violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law or misconduct will not be considered.