Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are respected and upheld, particularly in situations of conflict and crisis. The organization operates in various countries, including Syria, where it focuses on addressing human rights violations and promoting accountability. The OHCHR aims to empower individuals and communities by providing them with the necessary tools and support to advocate for their rights. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer position is critical in enhancing the visibility and understanding of the UN's work in Syria. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that effectively engage target audiences and raise awareness about human rights issues. This role requires a proactive approach to gathering insights from various media sources, including traditional and digital platforms, to inform communication strategies. The Associate Communications Officer will draft narratives and messaging that resonate with diverse audiences, ensuring that the UN's objectives are clearly communicated. Additionally, the role involves fostering relationships with media outlets, planning press events, and acting as a spokesperson when necessary. The incumbent will also create compelling content for various platforms, contributing to the overall communications campaigns that aim to engage and mobilize support for UN initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Communications Officer include:

• Gathering insights and analysis from media monitoring to inform communications strategy.
• Implementing communications strategies that raise awareness and drive engagement with target audiences.
• Drafting narratives and messaging on UN work for various channels.
• Conducting media mapping and fostering relationships with media outlets.
• Developing media lines for crisis situations and sensitive issues.
• Planning and coordinating press conferences, briefings, and media events.
• Acting as a spokesperson for the organization when required.
• Creating content optimized for target audiences across multiple platforms.
• Drafting and producing communications products such as press releases, reports, and infographics. 1
• Developing and implementing communications campaigns with measurable impact. 1
• Coordinating strategic communications partnerships with stakeholders. 1
• Delivering outreach and advocacy strategies to engage target audiences. 1
• Creating content for UN and community radio channels and podcasts. 1
• Promoting campaigns and events through media engagement and coverage.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Associate Communications Officer position include:

• Knowledge of risks to information integrity, including misinformation and disinformation.
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools and strategic communications principles.
• Strong communication skills to convey complex information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making.
• Professionalism and a commitment to gender perspectives in communications work.
• Creativity in problem-solving and program improvement.
• Technological awareness and willingness to learn new technologies relevant to communications.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, or related fields is required. Candidates should have experience in addressing risks to information integrity in fragile and crisis environments, as well as knowledge of media monitoring tools. Experience in strategic communications is desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and Arabic, both of which are required at UN Level II proficiency. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but it is not mandatory for this position. Proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English and Arabic is essential for effective communication in this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer category, meaning candidates must be nationals of Syria. The appointment is limited to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and is a fixed-term appointment contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position may involve a probationary period of one year for external candidates. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to provide complete and accurate information in their applications.