National Communication Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE (Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe) is a prominent international organization that focuses on promoting peace, security, and stability in Europe and beyond. Established in 1975, the OSCE has grown to include 57 participating states and operates in various countries to address security challenges, including conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The OSCE Mission to Skopje is the longest-serving field operation of the organization, dedicated to fostering social cohesion, fundamental rights, gender equality, rule of law, good governance, integrity, anti-corruption, and reform in criminal justice and police sectors. The mission employs a diverse team of professionals committed to these goals, working collaboratively with local authorities and communities to implement OSCE commitments effectively.

Job Overview:
The National Communication Officer position is situated within the Political Affairs and Communications Unit (PACU) of the OSCE Mission to Skopje. This role is integral to the Mission's consolidated communications function, with the primary objective of shaping and executing the Mission's communication strategy. The officer will be responsible for public information dissemination, media relations, and enhancing the Mission's online presence. The incumbent will act as the main point of contact for both national and international media, ensuring that the Mission's activities are communicated effectively and accurately. This position requires a proactive approach to developing communication strategies that align with the Mission's goals, as well as the ability to manage various digital platforms to engage with the public and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Communication Officer will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Senior Political and Communications Officer and overall guidance from the Chief of PACU. Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Communications and Advisory: Advising the Head of Mission (HoM) and senior leadership on public messaging, media relations, and reputational risks; contributing to the development and implementation of a strategic communication plan aligned with the Mission’s goals; developing lines to take, talking points, press releases, and statements in coordination with PACU leadership and senior management.
• Media Relations: Developing and maintaining networks of media contacts to ensure fair and objective reporting of Mission activities; organizing and moderating press conferences, briefings, and media interviews, preparing background materials and coordinating messaging; drafting and implementing crisis communication plans and leading response coordination in high sensitivity situations.
• Social and Digital Media Management: Managing the Mission’s social media channels, including content planning, creation, posting, and community management; producing engaging multimedia content (text, photo, video) in collaboration with programmatic teams; analyzing social media engagement data, producing regular reports, and making recommendations for improvement; coordinating with the OSCE Secretariat to ensure consistent branding and messaging on digital platforms.
• Content Development and Web Management: Overseeing content planning and production for the Mission website, ensuring relevance, clarity, and alignment with strategic priorities; identifying storytelling opportunities across the Mission and liaising with programmatic departments to showcase impact.
• Monitoring and Analysis: Monitoring media coverage and political developments relevant to the OSCE and the Mission mandate; providing regular analysis and alerting the HoM and PACU on media trends, opportunities, and threats.
• Support to Mission-wide Outreach and Public Events: Assisting programmatic teams in the planning and execution of outreach events and communication campaigns; ensuring consistency in the public image and branding of the Mission across all platforms and activities.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess citizenship or permanent residence in the Republic of North Macedonia. A first-level university degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, or a related field is required. Additionally, a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in communication, public relations, journalism, or digital media is essential, preferably within an international or politically sensitive environment. Candidates should demonstrate experience in social media management, content creation (including photography and video), and public messaging. A strong understanding of the media landscape and political context in North Macedonia is crucial, along with proven communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to analyze complex and sensitive information and produce clear, audience-appropriate messages is necessary, as well as competence with digital tools and social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Strong organizational skills, initiative, and the ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines are also required. Familiarity with crisis communication approaches and strategic planning is important, as well as excellent written and oral communication skills in English and local languages. Knowledge of more than one local language may be considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities. The ability and willingness to work as a member of a team with individuals from diverse cultural, religious, and political backgrounds while maintaining impartiality and objectivity is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft applications and holding a valid driving license are also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively perform the duties associated with the role of National Communication Officer.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in communication, public relations, journalism, or digital media. Experience in an international or politically sensitive environment is preferred, as it equips candidates with the skills to navigate complex communication challenges and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and in the local languages are mandatory. Knowledge of more than one local language may be considered an advantage, as it enhances the ability to communicate with a broader audience and engage with various community stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time contracted role under a local contract with the OSCE Mission to Skopje. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 2,337, subject to social security deductions. Social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the applicable OSCE salary scale, with the possibility of an initial appointment at up to Step 3 in exceptional cases, depending on relevant experience exceeding minimum requirements or higher previous remuneration. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise or cancel the recruitment process, offer an appointment at a lower grade, or modify the job description or duration. Only candidates selected for further stages of recruitment will be contacted. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Candidates must conduct themselves in a manner befitting the status of an international civil servant, maintaining integrity, independence, and impartiality. The OSCE does not reimburse expenses related to interviews, tests, visas, or relocation, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years, and candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.