National Information Officer

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Position Title: National Information Officer
Location: Kyiv
Country: Ukraine
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office in Kyiv (UNO Kyiv) is part of the global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs). Established to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations, UNO Kyiv serves as the principal source of information about the UN system in Ukraine. The office engages local audiences in local languages and collaborates with regional partners to bring the UN closer to the people it serves. Since the operationalization of the UN development system reform on January 1, 2019, UNO Kyiv has been integrated with the Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) in Ukraine, enhancing its capacity to communicate effectively about the UN's work in the country.

Job Overview:
The National Information Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the UN Country Team (UNCT) in developing and implementing strategic communications plans and campaigns aimed at local audiences. This position requires a deep understanding of the Global Communications Strategy of the United Nations and the ability to align communication strategies with the humanitarian response efforts in Ukraine. The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining the integrated UNCT website and social media accounts, drafting high-quality communications products in English and Ukrainian, and engaging in public speaking with various stakeholders. The role also involves conducting media outreach, sustaining professional relationships with key constituencies, and facilitating dialogues to improve public engagement with the UN's work in Ukraine. The National Information Officer will oversee the day-to-day operations of UNO Kyiv, ensuring effective management of activities, budget, and reporting to the DGC UNHQ and RCO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:

• Support the UNCT Communication and Advocacy Group (UNCAG) in developing and implementing strategic communications plans.
• Serve as the Secretariat for the UNCAG at the country level.
• Provide substantive support to the Resident Coordinator and UNCT in designing and monitoring the UN joint communications strategy.
• Align communication strategies with the Humanitarian Country Team’s efforts.
• Draft the annual communications plan to publicize UN results.
• Develop multimedia communications products and manage digital and social media activities.
• Maintain the UNCT website and social media accounts.
• Identify and implement innovative communications tools.
• Draft various print and digital communications products. 1
• Conduct media outreach and maintain contacts with national and regional media. 1
• Initiate and sustain relationships with key constituencies and partners. 1
• Conduct educational outreach activities. 1
• Oversee the administration of UNO Kyiv, including budget management and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism in communications techniques, including strategic communications and crisis communications. They should have the ability to implement effective media campaigns, develop media products, and identify communication opportunities. The role requires strong decision-making skills and the ability to apply organizational rules and regulations. Candidates should show pride in their work, demonstrate professional competence, and be motivated by professional concerns. They must also take responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or Doctorate degree, or equivalent) in communications, journalism, public information, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience is required, including experience in managing contacts and networking with media, NGOs, government officials, and international organizations in Ukraine. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing communications strategies, crisis communications, and speaking to diverse audiences. Experience working across multimedia platforms and with the United Nations or comparable international organizations is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is required for this position. Knowledge of other UN official languages is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that only candidates with Ukrainian nationality are eligible to apply. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members may be assigned to different duty stations as needed. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.