Spokesperson

Job Posting Organization:
The position is within the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The UN was established in 1945 with the mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. MINUSCA was deployed in 2014 to support the Central African Republic in its transition towards peace and stability. The organization operates in multiple countries worldwide, with a focus on humanitarian aid, peacekeeping, and development. The UN employs thousands of staff members globally, working across various sectors to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The Spokesperson will play a crucial role in managing media relations for MINUSCA, which involves engaging with both national and international media outlets. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive media strategy that includes traditional and digital platforms. This position requires the ability to advise senior leadership on media strategies, respond to disinformation, and facilitate communication during crisis situations. The Spokesperson will also coordinate with various UN departments and maintain close contact with mission leadership to ensure consistent messaging. The role demands a proactive approach to public information and the ability to represent the mission in various public forums, ensuring that the mission's objectives and activities are effectively communicated to the public.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Spokesperson's duties include conducting media briefings, developing press materials, and maintaining relationships with journalists. The incumbent will draft press statements, monitor media coverage, and respond to inquiries from the media. Additionally, the Spokesperson will coordinate media visits, manage a team of media relations staff, and oversee the budget for communications activities. The role also involves gathering information on mission activities, producing key messaging, and supporting internal communications. The Spokesperson will be expected to represent the mission at public events and liaise with government and civil society stakeholders to ensure effective communication of key messages.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in strategic communications, public information, or media management, particularly within large multicultural institutions. The role requires excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and a deep understanding of media dynamics in conflict and post-conflict environments. The Spokesperson should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, planning, and organizational skills, as well as sound judgment and decision-making abilities. Leadership qualities are essential, as the incumbent will be responsible for managing a team and driving communication strategies.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in communications, international relations, broadcasting, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international communications and public relations.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, public information, or media management. Experience in a spokesperson role or similar position within a peacekeeping operation or international organization is essential. Additionally, experience in providing communications services in conflict or post-conflict environments is desirable, highlighting the need for expertise in handling sensitive situations and messaging.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a roster recruitment process, meaning it is only open to candidates who are already on pre-approved rosters. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The role may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations as part of the UN's mobility policy. The organization emphasizes a non-smoking environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.