UN National Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Kathmandu is part of the global network of UN Information Centres. It serves as the primary source of information about the United Nations system in Nepal, promoting public understanding and support for the UN's aims and activities. The UNIC Kathmandu has been integrated with the Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Nepal since January 1, 2019, following the UN development system reform. The organization is dedicated to engaging local and regional partners and disseminating UN information materials in English and local languages, including Nepali.

Job Overview:
The UN National Information Officer position is crucial for supporting the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Nepal by developing and implementing strategic communications plans and campaigns aimed at local audiences. The incumbent will play a leading role in communications issues within the UNCT, serving as the Secretariat for the UN Communication and Advocacy Group (UNCAG) at the country level. This role involves providing substantive support to the Resident Coordinator and UNCT in designing and monitoring the UN joint communications strategy, which aligns with the Global UN Communications Strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The officer will also be responsible for drafting annual communications plans, managing multimedia communications products, maintaining the UNCT website and social media accounts, and conducting media outreach to enhance public engagement with the UN's work in Nepal.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including supporting the development and implementation of strategic communications plans, serving as the Secretariat for the UNCAG, providing support for the UN joint communications strategy, drafting communications plans, coordinating multimedia communications products, maintaining the UNCT website and social media accounts, identifying and adapting communications tools, drafting high-quality communications products in English and Nepali, monitoring current events and public opinion, conducting media outreach, sustaining relationships with key constituencies, conducting educational outreach activities, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of UNIC Kathmandu. The officer will also be responsible for reporting to DGC UNHQ and the RC/O on various outputs and may perform additional functions as required by the Director of CCOD or the Chief of ICS/CCOD.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess demonstrated knowledge of communications techniques, including strategic communications and crisis communications. They should have the ability to implement effective media campaigns, develop traditional and digital media products, identify communications opportunities, and manage communications strategies. The candidate must also show professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or Doctorate) in communications, journalism, public information, 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.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience is required, including experience in managing contacts and networking with media, NGOs, government officials, and international organizations in Nepal. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing communications strategies, crisis communications, and speaking to diverse audiences. Experience working across multimedia platforms and with the United Nations or comparable international organizations is desirable.

Languages:
English and Nepali are required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II for both languages. Additionally, knowledge of French, Arabic, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), or Spanish is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I for these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer (NPO) role, meaning it is specifically for nationals of Nepal. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the UN Secretariat is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Candidates will be subject to reference checks, and those selected will undergo a probationary period of one year.