Public Information Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General in the Executive Office of the Secretary-General. This office is responsible for providing information to the media regarding the activities of the UN system as a whole. It conducts daily briefings, responds to media inquiries, organizes press conferences, and facilitates interviews with senior officials. The office plays a crucial role in advising on media relations and keeping the Secretary-General informed about major breaking news stories globally. The United Nations, established in 1945, aims to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. It operates in multiple countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working towards various global goals including human rights, development, and humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Spokesperson and Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. The role involves organizing press conferences, drafting daily notes for briefings, maintaining statistics on press events, and acting as a focal point for interviews with the Secretary-General. The incumbent will also provide information to the media on various issues related to the UN's work, transcribe press encounters, and manage logistical arrangements for interviews and press conferences. This position requires a refined news sense, the ability to work under pressure, and the capacity to communicate complex UN policies in an accessible manner. The assistant will also be responsible for ensuring gender perspectives are incorporated into all areas of work, reflecting the UN's commitment to gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Public Information Assistant include: organizing and managing press conferences, maintaining a schedule for press events, drafting notes for daily briefings, collecting and analyzing data related to press activities, coordinating logistical arrangements for interviews, maintaining a database of interview requests, providing information to the media through various channels, transcribing press encounters, and managing press conferences during significant events such as the General Assembly. The assistant will also perform other duties as assigned by the Spokesperson or Deputy Spokesperson, ensuring effective communication and media relations for the UN.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in public communication, international broadcasting, or public information is required. Experience in logistical support for public information activities, such as organizing press conferences and coordinating meetings with journalists, is desirable. Additionally, experience in managing statistical databases and compiling information for communication products is also beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of current affairs and the UN's role and policies, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. While specific higher education qualifications are not mandated, relevant experience in public communication or related fields is essential for success in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in public communication, international broadcasting, or public information. Candidates should have experience in logistical support related to public information, including setting up press conferences and coordinating meetings with journalists. Experience in managing statistical databases and researching information from various sources is also desirable, as it contributes to the preparation and production of communication products for external audiences.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in French, another official UN language, is highly desirable and would be considered an asset for candidates applying for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 364 days. If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be treated as a temporary assignment. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office, regardless of their nationality. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its workforce, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process, and candidates with a history of violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law or other serious offenses will not be considered for employment.