Senior Speechwriter

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Strategic Communication and Speechwriting Unit in the Executive Office of the Secretary-General (EOSG) of the United Nations. The EOSG operates under the guidance of the Secretary-General, focusing on aligning the United Nations family with the Secretary-General's vision, priorities, and policies. The organization emphasizes the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, while also striving for gender and regional balance among its staff. The EOSG works collaboratively across various units to ensure effective communication and integration of efforts across the UN system.

Job Overview:
The Senior Speechwriter will play a crucial role in crafting and editing a diverse range of communication materials for high-level officials, including the Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General. This position requires close consultation with senior advisors to ensure that the content aligns with the Secretary-General's vision and the broader communications strategy of the United Nations. The incumbent will be responsible for producing persuasive and factually accurate speeches and materials that reflect the full spectrum of the UN agenda. Additionally, the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, including UN agencies and civil society, to gather insights and ensure the effectiveness of the communications produced. The Senior Speechwriter will also support administrative tasks within the unit and manage the performance evaluation of staff, providing guidance and mentorship as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Speechwriter's responsibilities include: writing and editing speeches, remarks, op-ed articles, video messages, talking points, and press statements; consulting with the Secretary-General and senior advisors on speech content; liaising with various departments and external stakeholders to ensure the accuracy and persuasiveness of materials; reviewing and editing draft texts for clarity and effectiveness; supporting programmatic and administrative tasks for the unit; managing staff performance evaluations and providing mentorship; contributing to policy formulation and strategic communications advice; and ensuring coordinated communications priorities with relevant departments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven expertise in drafting high-quality written materials, particularly speeches, for senior international figures. A strong understanding of the United Nations' role in international affairs is essential, along with knowledge of multicultural and gender requirements. The ideal candidate should demonstrate professional competence, efficiency, and a commitment to achieving results while maintaining a calm demeanor in stressful situations. Leadership skills and a commitment to gender balance in staffing are also critical.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in political sciences, international relations, journalism, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of experience in drafting high-quality materials, including speeches, in English is required. Additionally, candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in communications, public information, or journalism. Familiarity with international political, economic, and social affairs, particularly related to the United Nations, is desirable, as is experience working with international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language of the United Nations Secretariat. A working knowledge of French is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the UN framework.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to the availability of the post or funds. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff, encouraging female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes a non-discriminatory recruitment process, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.