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, which includes the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO), was reformed in 2019 to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN RCO in Gambia operates under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator, who is the highest-ranking official of the UN Development System in the country. The office aims to support Gambia in achieving its development priorities and the SDGs, ensuring that the UN's efforts are aligned with national needs and priorities.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate Communications Officer will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and understanding of the UN's work in Gambia. This position involves developing and implementing communications strategies that effectively engage target audiences and raise awareness about the UN's initiatives. The officer will be responsible for gathering insights from various media sources, drafting narratives, and creating compelling content tailored for different platforms. The role requires collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to maximize the impact of communications efforts and to ensure that the UN's messages resonate with the public. The officer will also act as a spokesperson when necessary and will contribute to the planning and execution of media events and outreach campaigns.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: gathering insights and analysis from media monitoring; implementing communications strategies to raise awareness and drive engagement; drafting narratives and messaging for various channels; fostering relationships with media outlets; developing media lines for crisis situations; planning press conferences and media events; creating optimized content for social media and digital platforms; drafting communications products such as press releases and reports; developing strategic communications partnerships; delivering outreach and advocacy strategies; creating content for UN radio channels; maintaining the organization's website; and preparing speeches and talking points for the Resident Coordinator. The officer will also monitor and report on communications strategies' effectiveness and stay updated on the latest trends in communications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking skills and a strong understanding of strategic communications principles. They should have the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences and develop creative content. Knowledge of digital design and experience in managing social media platforms are essential. The candidate should also be familiar with digital analytics tools and data visualization methods. A commitment to gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work is required.

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 considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communications strategies is required. Candidates should have experience managing digital communication platforms, including content production, and possess knowledge of the media landscape in Gambia. Experience within the UN system or another international organization is desirable, as is experience in graphic design, photography, video production, and planning high-visibility events and campaigns.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

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