UN Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN Development System has undergone significant reforms 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 supporting countries to meet their development priorities under the leadership of an empowered UN Resident Coordinator. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) oversees the resident coordinator system and ensures that it is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda. The DCO is committed to integrating data, digital innovation, and behavioral science into its operations, fostering 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 is located in the UN Resident Coordination Office in Praia, Cabo Verde, and reports directly to the Head of the Resident Coordinator Office. The officer will contribute to the development and implementation of communications strategies, create compelling content, and support outreach and advocacy campaigns to engage target audiences and advance UN priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including gathering insights from media monitoring, implementing communications strategies, drafting narratives and messaging, media mapping, and developing media lines. They will also plan and coordinate press conferences and media events, act as a spokesperson when required, and create content optimized for various platforms. The officer will draft communications products such as press releases and reports, develop strategic communications partnerships, and deliver outreach strategies. Additionally, they will monitor and analyze communications approaches, maintain confidentiality, and contribute to data collection and analysis for reporting purposes. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills, public speaking abilities, and knowledge of digital design. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and strong planning and organizing skills. The ability to analyze data and convey information clearly is essential. Candidates should also show 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. 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 degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is 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 skills in creating engaging content. Experience with current and emerging digital media platforms and conducting research for data collection and analysis is desirable. Candidates should also have the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences.

Languages:
English and Portuguese are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages at UN Level II. Knowledge of French is also beneficial but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The position is open to nationals of Cabo Verde only, and candidates residing outside the country may be considered if no suitable local candidates are identified. 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.