UN National Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Tokyo operates under the Information Centres Service (ICS) within the Outreach Division (OD) of the Department of Global Communications (DGC). Established to serve as the principal source of information about the United Nations system in Japan, UNIC Tokyo is dedicated to promoting public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations. The organization engages with local and regional partners to disseminate UN information materials and bring the United Nations closer to the people it serves. The center is supervised by the Director of UNIC Tokyo and the regional UNIC Director, ensuring a structured approach to its outreach and communication efforts.

Job Overview:
The UN National Information Officer position is pivotal in developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy tailored for Japan. This role involves adapting the global UN message for local audiences, which requires collaboration with various partners, including the UN Communications Group (UNCG) Japan. The incumbent will oversee the production of diverse content in Japanese for digital communications and platforms, ensuring that the messaging resonates with local audiences. Responsibilities include conducting research, preparing production plans, drafting and finalizing texts, and managing the distribution of materials. The officer will also monitor and analyze public opinion, current events, and media coverage to inform strategic adjustments to the communication strategy. This position requires a proactive approach to media outreach, including developing media strategies, maintaining relationships with national and regional media, and organizing press events. The officer will also enhance the UNIC Tokyo's online presence through effective management of websites and social media accounts, ensuring that the UN's priorities are effectively communicated to the public.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Developing and implementing a communications strategy for Japan, adapting global UN messages for local audiences.
• Producing and overseeing the creation of various content in Japanese for digital platforms.
• Conducting media outreach and maintaining relationships with national and regional media.
• Monitoring and analyzing public opinion and media coverage, advising on necessary adjustments to content strategy.
• Enhancing the UNIC Tokyo's web and social media presence.
• Liaising with stakeholders to develop joint outreach activities.
• Assisting in the development of campaign strategies and materials.
• Monitoring and evaluating campaign performance and providing insights for future strategies.
• Identifying opportunities for strategic partnerships and maintaining relationships with key constituencies. 1
• Contributing to research methodologies to monitor information integrity risks. 1
• Leading communications issues within the UN system in Japan and convening the United Nations Communications Group. 1
• Performing other functions as required by senior managers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, public information, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The role requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in managing media contacts, networking with various stakeholders, and experience in strategic communications. Experience in journalism and working with the United Nations or comparable international organizations in Japan is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, public information, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience, including managing contacts and networking with media, NGOs, government officials, and other stakeholders in Japan. Experience in strategic communications and addressing diverse public audiences is desirable, as is experience in journalism and working with the United Nations or similar organizations.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Japanese is required, with both languages needing to meet UN Level III standards in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, knowledge of French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), or Russian is desirable, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer (NPO) role, meaning it is specifically for Japanese nationals. The appointment is on a local basis, with no entitlement to travel or international benefits. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates must adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.