UN Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, 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 to meet their development priorities. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) oversees the Resident Coordinator System and ensures it is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda. The UN RCO in Benin is part of this system, working closely with various stakeholders to implement development strategies.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate Communications Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing communications strategies that effectively engage target audiences and raise awareness about the UN's work. This role involves gathering insights from various media sources, drafting narratives, and creating compelling content across multiple platforms. The officer will work closely with the UN Communication Group and other colleagues to ensure that communications efforts are aligned with the UN's strategic goals. The position requires a proactive approach to media relations, content creation, and the development of outreach strategies that promote the UN's priorities and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: gathering insights from media monitoring, implementing communications strategies, drafting narratives and messaging, media mapping, and fostering relationships with media outlets. They will also be responsible for planning and coordinating press events, acting as a spokesperson when necessary, creating optimized content for digital platforms, and producing communications products such as press releases and reports. Additionally, the officer will develop strategic communications partnerships, engage in outreach campaigns, and maintain the organization's website, ensuring it is user-friendly and up-to-date. The role also involves monitoring social media analytics and reporting on the effectiveness of communications strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills and a strong understanding of strategic communications principles. They should be adept at managing social media and digital platforms, have knowledge of digital analytics tools, and be skilled in data visualization. The ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences and develop creative content is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize their work efficiently.

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. Completion of programs in data analytics or business analytics 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 experience managing digital communication platforms, including content production, and possess knowledge of the media landscape in Benin. Experience within the UN system or another international organization is desirable, as is experience in graphic design, photography, and video production.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of Gambia, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance. If no suitable local candidates are found, Gambian nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.