OSCE Spokesperson/Senior Press and Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is the principal institution of the OSCE responsible for the human dimension. Established to promote democratic development, human rights, tolerance, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area. The organization is committed to addressing a wide range of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-related concerns, including arms control, human rights, and democratization. The OSCE comprises 57 participating States, all of which enjoy equal status, and decisions are made by consensus. The ODIHR's Public Affairs Unit plays a crucial role in strategic external communications to enhance understanding and support for ODIHR's mandate among various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The OSCE Spokesperson/Senior Press and Public Information Officer will serve as the chief spokesperson for ODIHR, responsible for developing and implementing media strategies, conducting interviews, and managing press conferences, particularly during election observation missions. The incumbent will advise senior management on media relations, propose key messages, and coordinate with various OSCE structures to ensure consistent public positioning. Additionally, the role involves overseeing ODIHR's digital operations and social media outreach, ensuring effective communication of ODIHR's activities and achievements. The position requires strong leadership skills to supervise the Public Affairs Unit's staff and ensure high-quality outputs in a collaborative environment. The incumbent will also monitor international media coverage and public perception of ODIHR, maintaining networks with key journalists and responding to public inquiries.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as ODIHR's chief spokesperson, developing and implementing media strategies, conducting interviews, moderating press conferences, drafting press releases, and managing media responses on sensitive issues.
• Advise the Director and senior management on media relations and public communication, proposing key messages and coordinating with OSCE structures.
• Conceptualize and oversee ODIHR's digital operations and social media outreach, maximizing engagement and accessibility of information.
• Lead the development and quality assurance of public information materials, supervising the production of outreach products.
• Supervise the Public Affairs Unit’s staff, providing direction and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Monitor international media coverage and public perception, analyzing trends and reporting relevant news to the Director.
• Maintain networks with key journalists and respond to public inquiries, supporting proactive outreach and stakeholder engagement.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in Communications, Journalism, International Relations, Political Science, Law, History, Public Affairs, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, media relations, public information, or journalism, preferably within an international organization or governmental institution. Demonstrated experience in developing communication strategies and managing media relations is essential, along with strong drafting and analytical skills.

Educational Background:
A second-level university degree in a relevant field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. The educational background should ideally include studies in Communications, Journalism, International Relations, Political Science, Law, History, or Public Affairs.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, media relations, public information, or journalism. This experience should preferably be within an international organization, governmental institution, or non-governmental organization. Experience in crisis communications and strategic messaging is highly desirable, as is a proven ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory. A working knowledge of another OSCE language, preferably Russian, is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, integrating a gender perspective into tasks and activities.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for secondment only, and all costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authorities. The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise or cancel the recruitment process. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates should be aware that OSCE officials must conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages the nomination of qualified candidates from all backgrounds. The position is full-time, with a target start date as soon as possible.