UN Volunteer Communications Expert

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF Ethiopia is part of a larger mission to implement a 5-year country programme from 2020 to 2025, which aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The organization focuses on strengthening national systems for data collection, analysis, and monitoring to promote equity for children. UNICEF Ethiopia collaborates with various partners to monitor the situation of children and advocate for necessary policy adjustments. The office also works closely with the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) to enhance cooperation concerning children's rights in Africa, supporting key development agendas such as Agenda 2063 and the Africa Fit for Children Agenda 204

• The office aims to bring child rights to the forefront of continental discussions and programs, thereby amplifying UNICEF's contributions to Africa's development agendas.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer (UNV) assignment is situated within UNICEF’s African Union Office/United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (AUO/UNECA) and focuses on providing communications and external relations services. The role is integral to raising the visibility of UNICEF’s engagement with the AU and UNECA, particularly in advocating for children's rights across Africa. The position involves creating content, organizing events, collaborating with media outlets, and contributing to various digital media platforms. The Communications Expert will work under the guidance of the Representative and will be expected to develop and maintain advocacy calendars, produce newsletters, and create communication products that enhance UNICEF's visibility at the AU. This role is crucial for ensuring that UNICEF's messages are effectively communicated to a broader audience, thereby supporting the organization's mission to promote children's rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the Office's annual advocacy calendars linked to the African Union Commission (AUC) and UNICEF priorities.
• Support the production of the Office Newsletter, including editing articles, branding, formatting, and timely release.
• Lead the production of communication products such as videos, flyers, web-cards, and banners.
• Maintain and update the media relations contact list/database targeting media with continental reach.
• Establish and refine processes for communicating with media regarding UNICEF AUO events.
• Ensure rapid dissemination of UNICEF messages to media contacts and social media followers.
• Update office web page content for both intranet and public website.
• Integrate global advocacy activities into the annual advocacy calendar.
• Assist in planning and delivering online and offline events, including branding and communication materials. 1
• Maintain strong working relationships with communication departments of key partners. 1
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of media materials and produce monthly analytics on social media engagement. 1
• Lead the preparation of customer/stakeholder satisfaction surveys and contribute to annual reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to create compelling content for various platforms. Proficiency in digital media tools and experience in media relations are essential. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to children's rights and have a strong understanding of advocacy strategies. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and maintain effective partnerships with stakeholders is crucial. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, international relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in these areas are advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of child rights and development issues, particularly in the African context.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in communications, public relations, or advocacy, preferably within an international organization or non-profit sector. Experience working with media and knowledge of digital communication strategies are highly desirable. Familiarity with the African Union and its initiatives related to children's rights will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Arabic, is considered a strong asset and will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader audience.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time UN Volunteer assignment based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The role may involve occasional travel within the region for events and meetings. The contract duration is typically for a year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant advocacy efforts for children's rights in Africa, while also providing a platform for professional growth and development within a dynamic international organization.