External Relations Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to help with their voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. The organization is committed to ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, and it works tirelessly to provide protection and assistance to those in need, particularly in times of crisis.

Job Overview:
The External Relations Associate plays a crucial role in the UNHCR's efforts to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including the media, government officials, and the general public. This position is typically supervised by the External Relations Officer or another professional staff member, and the incumbent is expected to provide regular updates and briefings on local developments that may impact the organization's operations. The role involves maintaining a comprehensive understanding of the issues affecting persons of concern, suggesting relevant stories for media coverage, and ensuring that the office is informed of any political or operational developments. The External Relations Associate will also be responsible for accompanying foreign delegations and media visits to refugee sites, providing briefings and preparing materials to enhance understanding of refugee issues. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and managing risks while seeking opportunities to advance the organization's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the External Relations Associate include providing background briefings to local and international media, tracking evolving issues concerning persons of concern, and suggesting relevant stories for media coverage. The incumbent will prepare daily briefings for the Head of Office and ensure that briefing materials from other offices are available. They will accompany visits from foreign delegations and media to refugee sites, providing appropriate briefings and commentaries. Establishing contacts with local organizations to promote understanding of refugee issues is also a key responsibility. The Associate will compile information and situation reports from field offices and consolidate them into weekly, monthly, or quarterly reports. They will advise the Head of Office on local aspects of external relations policies and liaise with external partners and local organizations on behalf of UNHCR. Additionally, the Associate will produce reports and briefings for internal and external partners, support risk management, and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include strong organizational and coordination skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. The ideal candidate should possess strategic thinking skills and the ability to analyze data effectively. Familiarity with UNHCR's operational context and external relations policies is also beneficial. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Political Science, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, or Communication. Relevant certifications in these areas are also considered essential for the role. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of refugee issues and the operational context in which UNHCR operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in donor relations, communications, inter-agency coordination, logistics, and planning is essential. Field experience, particularly in the context of the Rohingya refugee camps, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of effective communication and coordination in a fast-paced and complex operational environment.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is necessary. Familiarity with the local language is considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS6 level and is a temporary assignment with a target start date of October 1, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The role is family-type and is located in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, which is recognized as a hardship location. The position is full-time and may involve working closely with various units within UNHCR and external partners to ensure effective communication and coordination of activities related to refugee assistance and external relations.