Communications and Policy Writing Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP-CCC, a branch of UNEP, is a leading international advisory institution focused on energy, climate, and sustainable development. It plays a crucial role in assisting developing countries and emerging economies in transitioning to low-carbon development pathways and integrating climate resilience into national development strategies. UNEP-CCC is actively involved in implementing the UN Environment Climate Change Strategy and Energy Programme, and its work is supported by various international partnerships and funding sources, including the European Commission's Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG CLIMA).

Job Overview:
The Communications and Policy Writing Specialist will be responsible for simplifying and visually adapting existing documentation related to the Integrated Assessment for Article 6 (IAA6) project. This project aims to support countries in enhancing their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and aligning with long-term climate goals. The consultant will develop high-quality policy briefs and public dissemination materials that effectively communicate the IAA6 Approach and its learnings from pilot implementations in Peru, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka. The role requires close collaboration with the UNEP CCC project team and communications team to ensure that all outputs are accessible and meet the needs of various stakeholders, including policymakers and technical experts. The consultant will report to the IAA6 Project Manager and will be expected to deliver clear, strategic communication products that distill complex information into engaging formats suitable for non-technical audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Developing simplified content for the IAA6 documentation package, including plain-language text, executive summaries, and key messages for the IAA6 Approach, Framework, and Deployment Process.
• Creating user guidance for Excel workbooks related to the IAA6 project, ensuring clarity for non-technical readers.
• Producing 2-3 policy briefs that highlight key elements of the IAA6 Approach and its benefits for policymakers.
• Compiling public-facing country case studies that showcase the practical application and challenges of the IAA6 Approach in pilot countries.
• Preparing content packages for visuals, including factsheets and infographics, ready for handover to the Graphic Designer.
• Coordinating with country focal points and project partners to validate content and ensure compliance with communication protocols.
• Completing revisions based on feedback from the UNEP-CCC team and ensuring timely submission of all deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Communications, Public Policy, International Relations, Environmental Studies, or a related field. A minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience is required for those with a bachelor's degree, while candidates with a master's degree must have at least 2 years of relevant experience. Experience working with developing governments and international organizations is essential. Strong analytical, writing, editing, and interviewing skills are necessary, along with the ability to translate complex technical information into accessible communication products. Familiarity with climate policy, particularly Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and NDCs, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Communications, Public Policy, International Relations, Environmental Studies, or a related field is required. This educational background should provide the candidate with a solid understanding of the principles of effective communication, policy analysis, and environmental issues, particularly in the context of climate change and sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a bachelor's degree, or at least 2 years of relevant work experience for those with a master's degree. Experience should include working with developing governments and international organizations, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex policy environments and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and oral, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Spanish is considered desirable, as it would enhance the consultant's ability to communicate with stakeholders in Spanish-speaking countries involved in the IAA6 project.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time and expected to last for approximately 3.5 months. The consultant will work remotely or from Copenhagen, depending on their location and preferences. The role involves collaboration with various teams, including project teams, communications teams, and graphic designers, to ensure the delivery of high-quality outputs. Applicants are required to submit up to three examples of comparable work delivered in the last five years, clearly stating their role in each project. Importantly, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.