Individual Consultant - Policy Communications & Knowledge Management

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Position Title: Individual Consultant - Policy Communications & Knowledge Management
Location: Bhubaneswar
Country: India
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency dedicated to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. The organization is committed to achieving transformative goals outlined in its Strategic Plan (2023-2027), which includes ending preventable maternal deaths, eliminating unmet needs for family planning, and eradicating gender-based violence. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who are prepared to uphold international norms and standards, driving high-impact results and demonstrating transparency in resource management.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant for Policy Communications & Knowledge Management will play a crucial role in supporting the UNFPA Odisha State Office's mission. This position is part of the 10th Country Programme (CP-10), which aims to ensure gender equality and the realization of sexual and reproductive health rights for women and young people, particularly those from vulnerable groups. The consultant will be responsible for developing and executing state-specific communications and advocacy strategies, conducting research and analysis relevant to UNFPA's mandate, and facilitating knowledge management within the organization. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society, and community organizations, to influence policy decisions and promote UNFPA's objectives. The consultant will also be expected to create compelling communication products that highlight the impact of UNFPA's work in Odisha, ensuring that the organization's messages resonate with diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting research and analysis on policies relevant to UNFPA's mandate in Odisha, including demographic, economic, and social trends.
• Developing policy advocacy materials and knowledge products to influence state priorities.
• Streamlining knowledge management processes and facilitating capacity-building sessions for state and district teams.
• Creating comprehensive communications strategies and products, including newsletters, brochures, and success stories.
• Coordinating with implementing partners to execute communication initiatives and maintain a database of communication assets.
• Utilizing data visualization techniques to present complex information in an accessible manner.
• Organizing workshops and consultations to foster dialogue among stakeholders.
• Liaising with the Communications and Media unit to promote state-specific events through social media.
• Performing any additional duties as assigned by the State Head.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree (Graduate) or equivalent qualification in communications, journalism, public relations, international relations, social sciences, or related fields. A minimum of 4-5 years of relevant experience in communications is required, along with proven skills in English and Odia editing and writing. Familiarity with the development sector's language and style is essential. Proficiency in design software and GIS tools for creating visually compelling materials is necessary, as well as knowledge of social media platforms. Understanding UNFPA's mandate issues is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong writing and editing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt their writing style for different audiences.

Educational Background:
A university degree in communications, journalism, public relations, development, international relations, social sciences, public administration, or a related field is required. This educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of policy communications and knowledge management within the context of UNFPA's work.

Experience:
The position requires at least 4-5 years of relevant experience in communications, particularly within the development sector. Candidates should have a proven track record of creating impactful communication materials and strategies, as well as experience in policy advocacy and knowledge management. Familiarity with the socio-cultural context of Odisha and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders will be beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with strong writing and editing skills. Knowledge of Odia is an added advantage but not required. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively with various audiences and stakeholders, adapting their language and style as necessary.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time to full-time consultancy position with a duration of 11 months. The regular working schedule is Monday to Friday, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The consultant will be based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and may be required to travel as necessary, with travel costs covered by UNFPA according to their guidelines. All deliverables must be submitted electronically, and any products developed will become the property of UNFPA. The consultancy fee will be commensurate with the candidate's salary history and qualifications. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.