Humanitarian Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations’ sexual and reproductive health agency, is dedicated to expanding choices and possibilities for women and young people to lead healthy and productive lives. Established to address critical issues in sexual and reproductive health, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on four interconnected outcomes: ending unmet needs for family planning, preventing maternal deaths, eliminating gender-based violence, and adapting to demographic changes through evidence-based policies. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and has a significant presence in the Philippines, where it implements its 9th Country Programme (CP9) from 2024 to 2028, aligning with national development goals and the global Agenda 2030.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Communications Officer will play a crucial role in supporting UNFPA's emergency response efforts in the Philippines, a country frequently affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. This position involves rapid deployment to various regions to assist in communication strategies during emergencies. The officer will work closely with the Country Office's Humanitarian, Programme, and Communications units, under the supervision of the Humanitarian Coordinator. The role requires the production of communication materials, documentation of emergency responses, and the development of human interest stories that highlight the impact of humanitarian assistance. The officer will also be responsible for managing social media content and ensuring compliance with ethical standards in communication.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Humanitarian Communications: Support rapid communication response during emergencies, draft situation reports, operational briefs, and communication notes, and produce communication materials for various audiences.
• Field Deployment Documentation: Deploy to affected areas to document operations, capture high-quality media, conduct interviews, and ensure compliance with safeguarding and ethical standards.
• Human Interest Storytelling: Research and write stories that highlight humanitarian assistance impacts, develop multimedia narratives, and produce success stories for donor reporting.
• Multimedia Production: Create and edit visual content for digital platforms, maintain archives, and ensure adherence to branding standards.
• Social Media and Digital Communications: Develop emergency content, draft posts and updates, and monitor digital platforms for misinformation.
• Information Management Support: Assist in consolidating field information, drafting reports, and maintaining documentation repositories.
• Coordination: Participate in field missions, coordinate with various stakeholders, and support communication activities during preparedness exercises.
• Cross-cutting Responsibilities: Apply humanitarian principles and ensure compliance with ethical standards throughout all assignments.
• Perform other communication-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent English writing and communication skills, a strong understanding of humanitarian communication strategies, and proficiency in various communication media and software. They should demonstrate good planning and execution skills in communication strategies and have strong computer and internet research skills. Additionally, candidates should be able to work effectively in teams and manage relationships while communicating for impact.

Educational Background:
A degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian communication or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in communications, particularly in humanitarian contexts. Experience in field deployments and working with international organizations or NGOs is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and humanitarian principles will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with affected populations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National UN Volunteer role, which includes an Entry Lump Sum Allowance of USD 350, a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of PHP 53,177.16, comprehensive insurance coverage, and annual leave of 2.5 days per month. The role is full-time and may involve travel to various regions in the Philippines, depending on emergency response needs. The position is open to national candidates and offers opportunities for learning and career development through UNV resources.