Chief of Section, Public Information

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the UN Information Service (UNIS) in Geneva, which is part of the United Nations system. UNIS is responsible for providing information to the public about the work of the United Nations and its agencies, promoting transparency and understanding of the UN's activities. The organization aims to enhance the visibility of the UN's efforts in addressing global challenges and fostering international cooperation. UNIS operates in multiple countries and engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the media, to disseminate information and facilitate dialogue. The organization is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations, including peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, human rights, and sustainable development. UNIS employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to effective communication and outreach, ensuring that the UN's messages reach a wide audience.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Public Information, is a senior management position responsible for overseeing the Radio, Television, and Webcast Section within UNIS. The incumbent will report directly to the Director of UNIS and will play a crucial role in managing multimedia communications related to the UN's activities in Geneva. This position requires a strategic approach to planning, producing, and distributing multimedia news coverage, ensuring that the highest editorial standards are maintained. The Chief will be responsible for coordinating multimedia coverage of key UN meetings and events, managing a talented team, and ensuring that the section's outputs align with the UN's communication objectives. The role also involves engaging with external media and stakeholders, developing partnerships for co-production of multimedia projects, and representing the UNIS at various inter-agency meetings. The Chief will need to demonstrate strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of international communication trends, and the ability to navigate complex political environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Planning, coordinating, and supervising multimedia coverage of UNIS's activities, including news items, live broadcasts, and webcasts.
• Managing the section's staff, resources, and production budgets, ensuring that all projects are executed efficiently and within budget.
• Developing and executing procurement plans for capital equipment and assisting in the preparation of annual budgets.
• Overseeing UNIS contributions to various broadcasting platforms, including the European Broadcasting Union and UN News.
• Supervising the production of audio, radio, podcast, and vodcast news programs in both English and French.
• Coordinating photographic coverage of UN activities and managing social media communications projects.
• Initiating and developing multimedia project proposals in collaboration with other UN offices and external partners.
• Ensuring effective logistical arrangements for visual coverage of major events.
• Providing multimedia services to producers and accredited correspondents. 1
• Collaborating with other divisions to harmonize technical operations. 1
• Deputizing for the Director of UNIS in their absence and serving as the UN Geneva Spokesperson when required. 1
• Representing the Service at relevant meetings and seminars.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a thorough knowledge of communication challenges and trends in broadcast and online journalism, particularly in an international context. They should demonstrate strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a multilingual production team. A deep understanding of the United Nations system, its activities, and mandates is essential. Candidates must also have experience in managing budgets, procurement, and human resources, as well as the ability to raise and manage financial support for audiovisual content production. Professional competence and mastery of subject matter are crucial, along with a commitment to gender balance in staffing and operations.

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

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in broadcast journalism or multimedia communications is required, with at least five years at the international level. Candidates must have experience in supervision, team management, and assignment planning, as well as experience in writing and editing news and reports for international audiences under tight deadlines. Experience with live news production and live-streaming is also required.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and both are required for this position. Additionally, knowledge of either Arabic, Spanish, Russian, or Chinese (Mandarin) is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The job is a full-time position based in Geneva, Switzerland. The specific contract duration and seniority level are not mentioned in the job description. The role involves international collaboration and may require travel for various assignments. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UN standards, reflecting the responsibilities and expectations of the position.