Head of Press

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Strategic Communications (OSC) at NATO is responsible for providing communications direction and guidance to stakeholders across the NATO enterprise. Established to coordinate strategic communications activities across all NATO civilian and military bodies, the OSC plays a crucial role in managing full-spectrum communications. This includes analyzing the information environment, designing and creating content, managing communications technology and platforms, overseeing media relations, and engaging audiences through various channels. The OSC is integral to NATO's mission and operates in multiple countries where NATO has a presence, ensuring that communications are aligned with the organization's objectives and political agenda.

Job Overview:
The Head of Press position within the OSC is pivotal for managing the Press Office's operations. This role involves supporting the OSC leadership by overseeing the drafting of media products for high-ranking officials, including the NATO Secretary General and the Deputy Secretary General. The incumbent will handle journalists' queries and support the organization of media engagements, working closely with the Head of Media Operations and Monitoring. The position requires a proactive approach to managing media relations, ensuring that communications are timely, accurate, and aligned with NATO's strategic objectives. The Head of Press will also be responsible for maintaining up-to-date knowledge of NATO's political agenda and crafting key messages for the media. The role may require occasional travel and the ability to work beyond standard office hours, reflecting the dynamic nature of media engagement in a global context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Press will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: ensuring the timeliness, quality, consistency, and newsworthiness of media products; proactively dealing with media queries, corrections, and rebuttals; keeping abreast of NATO's political agenda; crafting key messages for media dissemination; ensuring accurate transcripts of media engagements; briefing on media issues; and traveling with senior NATO officials as required. The incumbent will draft and review press conferences and statements, demonstrating sound political judgment and organizational awareness. Additionally, the Head of Press will write and review content for NATO's website and social media channels, support the OSC's communications strategy, represent the organization in meetings, and manage a team of 12 direct reports, ensuring clarity on objectives and fostering a motivating workplace.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field and have at least 7 years of experience in a media or communications environment. Experience in managing or leading teams is essential, along with excellent drafting, editing, and communication skills. Political judgment is crucial for this role. The minimum language requirements include proficiency in one of NATO's official languages (English or French) at level VI and a beginner level (I) in the other language. Familiarity with the international press corps and experience in international organizations or the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and defense sector would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally be complemented by specialized training or certifications in communications, media relations, or public relations, which would enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience in a media or communications environment. This experience should include a proven track record of managing or leading teams, as well as a deep understanding of media relations and strategic communications. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to navigate complex political environments and engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in NATO's official languages is mandatory. Candidates must have a minimum of level VI (Proficiency) in one language and level I (Beginner) in the other. While English and French are the primary languages, familiarity with additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse media outlets and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional years. There is also the potential for conversion to an indefinite duration contract during the renewal period. The maximum period of service in this post is six years. The position is open only to nationals of NATO member countries, and applications must be submitted through the appropriate recruitment channels. NATO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements, including teleworking options, subject to business requirements. Additionally, NATO maintains a non-smoking environment at its headquarters.