Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This reform led to the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), which operate under the leadership of an empowered UN Resident Coordinator. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the Resident Coordinator System. The DCO's mission is to ensure that the RC system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven organizational culture. The UN aims to deliver more effectively and efficiently across its operations globally, with a commitment to gender balance and diversity in its workforce.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, including management, other communications specialists, and external partners. This position is vital for planning and coordinating communication activities, supporting reporting efforts, and providing updates on activities. The officer will engage with counterparts in UN agencies, government officials, civil society, and media to build partnerships and coordinate activities. The role requires a proactive approach to gathering insights from media monitoring and implementing communication strategies that raise awareness and drive engagement. The officer will also be responsible for drafting narratives and messaging, media mapping, and developing media lines, especially in crisis situations. The position is located in the UN Resident Coordination Office in Moroni, Comoros, under the direct supervision of the Head of the Office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Gathering insights from media monitoring to inform communication strategies.
• Implementing communications strategies that engage target audiences.
• Drafting narratives and messaging for diverse channels.
• Mapping media and fostering relationships with media outlets.
• Developing media lines for crisis situations.
• Planning and coordinating press conferences and media events.
• Acting as a spokesperson when required.
• Creating compelling content for various platforms.
• Drafting and producing communications products like press releases and reports. 1
• Developing and implementing impactful communications campaigns. 1
• Coordinating strategic communications partnerships. 1
• Engaging target audiences through outreach and advocacy strategies. 1
• Creating content for UN and community radio channels. 1
• Updating policy and training related to strategic communications. 1
• Assisting in reporting for governmental bodies. 1
• Staying updated on communications trends and technologies. 1
• Maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information. 1
• Monitoring and analyzing communications strategies for effectiveness. 1
• Collecting and analyzing data for insights and reporting. 2
• Performing 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, planning and organizing abilities, and teamwork are essential competencies. 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. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. 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 communications strategies is required. Candidates should demonstrate 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 developing creative content and conducting research.

Languages:
French is required at UN Level III, while English is desirable at UN Level II. Proficiency in both languages is essential for effective communication within the UN Secretariat.

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 Comoros, and candidates residing elsewhere may be considered at their own expense. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its workforce, encouraging female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.