Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System, reformed as of January 1, 2019, aims to effectively support countries in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a pivotal role in this mission, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) oversees the Resident Coordinator System, ensuring it is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda. The DCO's transformation was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in Resolution A/RES/72/279, and it continues to adapt to meet the evolving needs of the UN's mission, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven organizational culture.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, including management, other communications specialists, and external partners. This role involves planning and coordinating communication activities, supporting reporting efforts, and providing updates on activities. The officer will also engage with counterparts in UN agencies, government officials, civil society, and media to build partnerships and coordinate activities. The position requires a proactive approach to creating compelling content, implementing communication strategies, and monitoring media narratives to inform the organization's communications strategy. The officer will act as a spokesperson when necessary and contribute to the development of communications campaigns that engage target audiences effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for gathering insights from media monitoring, implementing communication strategies, drafting narratives, and fostering relationships with media outlets. They will contribute to the planning of press events, act as a spokesperson, create optimized content for various platforms, and draft communications products such as press releases and reports. The officer will also develop strategic communications partnerships, engage in outreach and advocacy campaigns, and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information. Additionally, they will analyze communications approaches and report on their effectiveness, contributing to data-driven decision-making and planning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking, public speaking skills, and knowledge of digital design. They should exhibit effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and be able to tailor their messaging to different audiences. Planning and organizing skills are essential, as the role requires setting clear goals, prioritizing activities, and efficiently managing time and resources. The ability to incorporate gender perspectives and ensure equal participation in all areas of work is also crucial.

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 programs in data analytics or related fields 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 data analytics or related areas is desirable, along with skills in conducting research and analyzing information from various sources.

Languages:
English is required, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Pashto and Dari are also required, with similar proficiency levels. French is considered a working language of the UN but is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Afghanistan only, and candidates must be of the nationality of the country where the position is located. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.