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 (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) has been transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the Resident Coordinator System. The DCO's recalibration in 2026 aims to optimize support for the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The Associate Communications Officer is integral to maintaining relationships within the UN and with external partners to support communication strategies and activities.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that effectively engage target audiences and raise awareness of the UN's work. This role involves gathering insights from various media sources, drafting narratives, and creating compelling content for different platforms. The officer will also coordinate media events, act as a spokesperson when necessary, and support the Crisis Management Team. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, government officials, and civil society representatives, to enhance communication efforts and ensure information integrity. The officer will also monitor and analyze communication strategies to assess their effectiveness and make data-driven recommendations for improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Gather insights from media monitoring to inform communication strategies.
• Implement communication strategies that engage target audiences.
• Draft narratives and messaging for diverse channels.
• Foster relationships with media outlets.
• Develop media lines for crisis situations.
• Plan and coordinate press events.
• Act as a spokesperson when required.
• Create optimized content for various platforms.
• Produce communication products like press releases and reports. 1
• Develop and implement impactful communication campaigns. 1
• Coordinate strategic communications partnerships. 1
• Deliver outreach and advocacy strategies. 1
• Create content for UN and community radio channels. 1
• Update policy and training related to strategic communications. 1
• Prepare reporting for governmental bodies. 1
• Stay updated on communication trends and technologies. 1
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information. 1
• Monitor and report on communication strategies' performance. 1
• Analyze data to identify trends and provide insights. 2
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills, public speaking abilities, and knowledge of digital design. They should be able to communicate complex information effectively and analyze data to support decision-making. Professionalism, communication skills, and planning and organizing abilities are essential. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. 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 advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communication 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.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required, with a minimum level of II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position for an initial period of one year, subject to budgetary approval and availability of funds. The position is open to nationals of Niger, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are found, Niger nationals residing elsewhere may be considered, with relocation costs borne by the candidate. 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.