Communication Assistant G5

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to global peace and humanitarian efforts. WFP's mission is driven by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and communities.

Job Overview:
The Communication Assistant G5 position at WFP involves providing specialized communications services that support the creation of content aimed at enhancing WFP’s visibility and reputation. The role is crucial for advocating on issues relevant to WFP’s goals and supporting fundraising activities. The jobholder will work under the general supervision of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director or the CO Communications Lead, with technical oversight from the Regional Communication, Advocacy, and Marketing unit. The position requires timely production of various communication products, gathering content for communication materials, and supporting the dissemination of information through social and traditional media channels. The Communication Assistant will also conduct research, suggest ideas, and provide coordination support for multimedia projects, ensuring that all outputs meet quality standards and align with WFP’s communication strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Communication Assistant include but are not limited to:

• Content Gathering and Production: Ensure timely production of communication products for advocacy purposes; gather relevant content to develop communication materials; support the production of information materials such as human interest stories, multimedia products, news releases, and factsheets; perform specialized communications processes to assist staff in campaign development and dissemination; conduct research and provide coordination support for video, photographic, and radio projects; manage the storage and distribution of audio/visual materials.
• Media Relations: Serve as an information focal point for media coverage of events; organize and execute special events, including news conferences and field visits; maintain a list of media representatives and handle inquiries; monitor traditional and social media, reporting relevant information to senior staff; prepare content for traditional and social media platforms to enhance coverage of WFP’s activities.
• Support WFP’s engagement with communities and authorities to build brand awareness and promote community engagement; assist in building relations with community-based media, especially community radio stations; support fundraising activities and ensure that communities understand WFP’s mission and programs.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• Education: Completion of secondary school education is mandatory. A Bachelor’s degree in journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of related work experience and/or relevant training or courses may be considered.
• Experience: A minimum of five years of progressively responsible support work experience in journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of communication strategies and media relations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, or Communications is highly desirable. Additional qualifications or certifications in communication or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should possess at least five years of progressively responsible experience in a relevant field. This experience should include work in journalism, public relations, or communications, demonstrating the ability to manage communication projects and engage with media effectively. Experience in humanitarian contexts or with international organizations is a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in French is mandatory. A Level B proficiency in English is also required, indicating the ability to communicate effectively in both languages. Additional language skills may be advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Cotonou, Benin. The contract duration and specific terms will be outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment processes. All applications must be submitted through WFP’s online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.