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 the UN Resident Coordinator. The UN aims to foster a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring equal participation of all genders and backgrounds in its workforce.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer position is integral to the UN Resident Coordination Office in Georgetown, Guyana. The role involves contributing to the development and implementation of communications strategies that effectively engage target audiences and raise awareness about the UN's work. The officer will gather insights from various media sources, draft narratives, and create compelling content for different platforms. This position requires a proactive approach to media relations, including fostering relationships with media outlets and acting as a spokesperson when necessary. The officer will also be involved in planning media events, creating communications products, and developing strategic partnerships to maximize impact. The role demands a strong understanding of digital communications and the ability to analyze data to inform decision-making and strategy development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Communications Officer will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: gathering insights and analysis from media monitoring; developing and implementing communications strategies; drafting narratives and messaging for diverse audiences; conducting media mapping and outreach; creating media lines for crisis situations; planning and coordinating press conferences and media events; acting as a spokesperson; producing communications products such as press releases and reports; developing communications campaigns; coordinating strategic partnerships; delivering outreach and advocacy strategies; creating content for UN radio channels and podcasts; updating policy and training related to strategic communications; assisting in reporting to governmental bodies; and monitoring and analyzing communications strategies for effectiveness. The officer will also be responsible for maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information, as well as keeping abreast of trends in communications and emerging technologies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong professionalism, communication, technological awareness, and client orientation skills. They should demonstrate strategic thinking, public speaking, and critical thinking abilities. Knowledge of strategic communications principles, media monitoring tools, digital design, and sustainable development theories is essential. The ability to analyze data, conduct research, and develop creative content is also required. Candidates should 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. Successful 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 Communications, International Relations, or related fields is required. Candidates should have demonstrated knowledge of risks to information integrity, including misinformation and disinformation, especially in fragile environments. Skills in data visualization and familiarity with current digital media platforms are desirable. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial. Candidates must meet the minimum required level for each skill in these languages according to the UN Language Framework.

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 Guyana only, and candidates residing outside Guyana may be considered if no suitable local candidates are found. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the UN does not require any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.