OSCE Spokesperson/Senior Press and Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is the principal institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) responsible for the human dimension. Established to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area, engaging in activities such as election observation, democratic development, and human rights advocacy. The organization is comprised of 57 participating States, each enjoying equal status, and decisions are made by consensus. The OSCE has a comprehensive approach to security, addressing a wide range of concerns including arms control, human trafficking, and counter-terrorism. The ODIHR's Public Affairs Unit plays a crucial role in supporting the Director by leading strategic external communications to enhance understanding and support for ODIHR's mandate among various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The OSCE Spokesperson/Senior Press and Public Information Officer will serve as the chief spokesperson for ODIHR, responsible for developing and implementing media strategies, conducting interviews, and managing press conferences, particularly during election observation missions. The incumbent will advise senior management on media relations and public communication, ensuring consistent messaging across various OSCE structures. This role requires conceptualizing and overseeing ODIHR's digital operations and social media outreach to maximize engagement and accessibility of information. The position also involves leading the development of public information materials and supervising the Public Affairs Unit's staff to ensure high-quality outputs. The officer will monitor international media coverage, analyze trends, and maintain networks with key journalists, all while handling sensitive political and human rights issues in a multicultural environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as ODIHR's chief spokesperson, developing and implementing media strategies, conducting interviews, moderating press conferences, drafting press releases, and managing media responses on sensitive issues.
• Advise the Director and senior management on media relations, propose key messages, and coordinate with OSCE structures for consistent public positioning.
• Oversee ODIHR's digital operations and social media outreach, including website content and social media strategy.
• Lead the development and quality assurance of public information materials, supervising the production of factsheets, brochures, and reports.
• Supervise the Public Affairs Unit’s staff, providing direction and mentoring while ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Monitor international media coverage and public perception of ODIHR, analyze trends, and report relevant news to the Director.
• Maintain networks with key journalists and respond to public inquiries to support proactive outreach.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in Communications, Journalism, International Relations, Political Science, Law, History, Public Affairs, or a relevant field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, media relations, public information, or journalism is required, with preference given to experience within international organizations or governmental institutions. Candidates should demonstrate experience in developing communication strategies, managing media relations, and advising senior leadership on communications matters. Strong drafting, editing, and analytical skills are essential, along with proficiency in digital communication tools and social media platforms.

Educational Background:
A second-level university degree in a relevant field such as Communications, Journalism, International Relations, Political Science, Law, History, or Public Affairs is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Candidates should have a strong educational foundation that supports their ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in relevant fields such as strategic communications, media relations, or public information. If the candidate holds a first-level university degree, a total of nine years of experience is required. Experience within international organizations, governmental institutions, or non-governmental organizations is preferred, particularly in roles that involve advising senior leadership and managing media relations.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory. A working knowledge of another OSCE language, preferably Russian, is considered an asset. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and represent the organization in public and media-facing settings.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for secondment only, and all costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authorities. Candidates should verify with their respective authorities regarding financial remuneration and benefits. The OSCE does not provide a Board and Lodging Allowance for seconded staff members. The contract type is international secondment, with a fixed-term schedule and a full-time commitment. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates must adhere to the highest ethical standards as international civil servants. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.