National Communication Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, established with the mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA has been operational in Bangladesh since 1974, focusing on achieving three transformative results: ending unmet need for family planning, preventing maternal deaths, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization is currently implementing its 10th Country Programme (2022-2026) in Bangladesh, with its main office located in Dhaka and a sub-office in Cox’s Bazar to coordinate humanitarian efforts in response to the Rohingya refugee crisis. UNFPA Bangladesh maintains strong partnerships with development partners, donors, and implementing partners, as well as a robust network with media, which enables effective promotion of its mandate across the country.

Job Overview:
The National Communication Officer, serving as a National UN Volunteer Expert, will play a crucial role in the UNFPA Country Office’s Communications Team. This position involves leading the donor communication portfolio for both development and humanitarian programs, which includes the creation of various communication products such as strategies, plans, speeches, press releases, stories, talking points, factsheets, infographics, and reports. The officer will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of Communication and will collaborate closely with program teams. The role requires frequent travel to Cox’s Bazar and other areas where UNFPA operates, emphasizing the need for a collaborative and innovative mindset within a creative, multicultural team environment. Key skills required for this position include outstanding writing and editorial skills in both English and Bangla, the ability to produce content efficiently under tight deadlines, and a strong respect for diversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Communication Officer will undertake a variety of tasks under the supervision of the Chief of Communication, including: leading the donor communication portfolio in alignment with the Office’s donor communication strategy; contributing to donor proposals and reports; developing stories, press releases, social media posts, video scripts, and other communication products in English and Bangla; supporting the team in creating high-caliber advocacy and communication products for campaigns, events, and meetings; collaborating with program teams to gather stories and visuals from field missions; fostering communication-related partnerships with influencers, celebrities, media, civil society, and youth groups; conceptualizing, planning, executing, and monitoring campaigns and events; assisting with media and news monitoring as needed; supporting the Communication team’s work and backstopping team members in their absence; and serving as Officer in Charge of the Chief of Communication when required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, integrity, accountability, adaptability, flexibility, commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to work effectively within teams. They should demonstrate professionalism, respect for diversity, and sound judgment and decision-making abilities. The role requires a collaborative spirit and the capacity to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Educational Background:
A degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of communication strategies and practices, particularly in the context of development and humanitarian work.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UN agencies or similar entities, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of producing high-quality communication materials and managing communication portfolios effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bangla is mandatory for this position, as the role involves creating content in both languages. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National UN Volunteer role based in Dhaka, with frequent travel to Cox’s Bazar and other program areas. The role is full-time and may involve working under tight deadlines. The selected candidate will receive benefits and allowances as applicable to the duty station, and they should be prepared for certain limitations in freedom of movement within the country.