Strategic Communications Specialist (International Consultant)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Established in 1949, UNRWA is dedicated to providing assistance and protection to Palestine refugees. The agency operates in five fields: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA's mission is to help Palestine refugees achieve their full potential in human development, and it employs over 30,000 staff members, providing education, health care, social services, and emergency assistance to millions of refugees.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Communications Specialist will play a pivotal role as the principal communications adviser to the Director of the Relief and Social Services Department (RSSD) regarding the Archive Initiative. This position involves leading the development of strategic communications and stakeholder engagement strategies that are crucial for the successful implementation and sustainability of the Initiative. The Specialist will be responsible for cultivating relationships with key stakeholders, including Palestinian communities, donors, and academic institutions, while also identifying opportunities for collaboration and advocacy. The role requires establishing and coordinating an advisory stakeholder structure to facilitate strategic engagement and governance arrangements that align with the program's objectives. The Specialist will also monitor communications activities and prepare reports for senior management, ensuring that the Initiative is effectively positioned within the broader context of UNRWA's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Strategic Communications Specialist include:

• Developing and implementing strategic communications and stakeholder engagement plans to support the objectives of the Archive Initiative.
• Providing strategic communications advice to the Director of RSSD and preparing briefing materials, presentations, reports, and other communications products as needed.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including Palestinian communities, donors, academic and cultural institutions, and professional networks.
• Supporting the establishment and operation of governance and advisory mechanisms for the Archive Initiative, including coordinating meetings and facilitating stakeholder engagement.
• Coordinating communications and outreach activities to promote awareness and institutional visibility of the Initiative.
• Identifying opportunities to strengthen partnerships and external engagement in support of the Initiative.
• Monitoring communications and stakeholder engagement activities and preparing reports and recommendations for senior management.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Strategic Communications Specialist position include:

• An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Communications, Strategic Communications, Public Affairs, International Relations, Journalism, Political Science, History, Museum Studies, Cultural Heritage Management, Public Policy, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, external relations, stakeholder engagement, partnership development, advocacy, or a related field.
• At least two years of international relevant experience outside of the candidate's home country, country of citizenship, and country of permanent residence.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing strategic communications and stakeholder engagement strategies for complex, multi-stakeholder programs.
• Experience providing strategic communications or stakeholder engagement advice to senior management.
• Experience in developing high-quality communications products for senior management, including briefing notes and presentations.
• Experience in establishing and managing strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including governments and international organizations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Communications, Public Affairs, International Relations, or related disciplines. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of strategic communications and stakeholder engagement in an international context.

Experience:
Candidates are required to have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, external relations, stakeholder engagement, partnership development, or advocacy. This experience must include at least two years of international relevant experience outside of the candidate's home country. The role demands a proven track record in developing and implementing strategic communications strategies for complex programs and providing advice to senior management.

Languages:
The position requires an excellent command of written and spoken English. A working knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the contract is 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance evaluation and availability of funds. The remuneration for this position is set at 7,500 USD per month. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal banking information.