Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's Ecosystem Division focuses on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems to achieve benefits for nature and people, both today and for future generations. The division collaborates with Member States and partners to strengthen resilience by providing policy and technical support aimed at catalyzing sustainable social and economic transformation for biodiversity, people, and peace. Established as a key player in global environmental governance, UNEP operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer will be stationed in the Marine and Coastal Unit, Marine and Freshwater Branch, Ecosystems Division, under the direct supervision of the Chief of the Marine and Coastal Unit. This role is pivotal in leading the design and implementation of the Global Fund for Coral Reef (GFCR) global communications strategy, ensuring that it aligns with the priorities of the UN system and the investment and programmatic objectives of GFCR. The officer will also be responsible for leading GFCR's global advocacy positioning across critical areas such as ocean, climate, biodiversity, and sustainable finance policy processes. The position requires a strategic thinker who can work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including governments, donors, and private sector actors, to enhance the impact and scalability of initiatives. The officer will engage in research, data analysis, and the preparation of various written outputs, contributing to policy development and outreach activities. This role is essential for strengthening relationships with partners and ensuring that GFCR and the One Ocean Finance Initiative are effectively positioned as mechanisms for implementing global commitments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the design and implementation of the GFCR global communications strategy; coordinating political engagement and mobilization strategies; strengthening relationships with public and private sector partners; conducting research and analysis of information from diverse sources; assisting in communications aspects of policy development; designing data collection tools and interpreting responses; preparing written outputs such as briefing notes and reports; providing support to meetings and conferences; participating in field missions; contributing to budget and funding activities; and performing other duties as required. The officer will also be responsible for collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights through data visualization methods, enabling data-driven planning and decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in strategic communications, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, particularly in the context of international ocean, climate, biodiversity, and sustainable finance policies. The ability to align initiatives with UN priorities and global frameworks is essential. Candidates should demonstrate analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent research, and proficiency in data collection and interpretation. Professionalism, effective communication skills, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work are also required. The candidate should be able to work collaboratively in a team environment and demonstrate a commitment to achieving organizational goals.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or Doctorate degree, or equivalent) in communication, public advocacy, environmental communications, social science, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields of study, combined with two additional years of relevant work 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 desirable, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communication, advocacy, knowledge management, data analysis, and documentation in the areas of sustainable development, environmental management, climate change, ecosystems, and oceans at the international level is required. Experience in designing and implementing global communications and advocacy strategies for development programs is essential. Additionally, experience in coordinating political engagement and strengthening partnerships with public and private sectors to enhance resource mobilization and program implementation is required. Desirable qualifications include a minimum of three (3) years of experience working with international development organizations, multilateral institutions, or the United Nations system, as well as two (2) years or more of experience in data analytics or a related area.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a desirable language, also requiring a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in all language skills. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 364 days. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The appointment and renewal are subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval, or extension of the mandate. The position is open to both internal and external candidates, with a strong encouragement for female candidates to apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff, and all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request.