Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN Development System has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO) play a crucial role in supporting countries in their development priorities, ensuring that the UN's efforts are aligned with national needs and contexts. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for maintaining relationships with management and other communications specialists within the UN organization, as well as with external stakeholders such as government officials, civil society representatives, and media. This role involves planning and coordinating communication activities, supporting reporting efforts, and providing updates on activities. The officer will also contribute to the development and implementation of communication strategies that raise awareness and engage target audiences. The position requires a proactive approach to building partnerships and managing communications effectively, particularly in the context of the UN's mission and priorities. The Associate Communications Officer will work under the supervision of the Head of the Resident Coordinator Office in Male, Maldives, and will be expected to contribute to various communication initiatives, including media outreach, content creation, and strategic partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a range of duties, including gathering insights from media monitoring, implementing communication strategies, drafting narratives and messaging, media mapping, and developing media lines. They will also plan and coordinate press conferences and media events, act as a spokesperson when required, and create compelling content for various platforms. The officer will draft and produce communications products such as press releases and reports, develop strategic communications partnerships, and deliver outreach and advocacy campaigns. Additionally, they will create content for UN and community radio channels, maintain expertise in emerging technologies, and monitor and analyze communications strategies to assess their effectiveness. The role requires maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information and contributing to data-driven decision-making through analysis and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills, public speaking abilities, and knowledge of digital design. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. The role requires a strong understanding of strategic communications principles and practices, as well as the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences. The candidate should also be motivated by professional concerns and demonstrate persistence in overcoming challenges. A commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, 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 the advanced degree. Completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communications strategies is required. Candidates should have demonstrated knowledge of strategic communications principles and practices, as well as the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences. Experience in creating compelling content and familiarity with current digital media platforms is desirable. Additionally, one year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
English and Dhivehi are required for this position. The UN Secretariat recognizes English and French as its working languages, but for this role, proficiency in Dhivehi is essential. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both languages, as per the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of the Maldives only, and candidates must possess national experience or knowledge of the local language and culture. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.